Jeremiah 23:17 Meaning and Explanation
“They say still unto them that despise me, The LORD hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The false prophets promise safety to the wicked and those who refuse to repent.
The Context of Jeremiah 23:17
Jeremiah specifies the lie the false prophets spread.
What Does Jeremiah 23:17 Mean?
The false promise is 'Ye shall have peace.' This is not conditional peace (if you repent) but unconditional false assurance. 'They say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart'—to those who follow their own desires, abandoning God's law—comes the lie: 'No evil shall come upon you.'
This is the heart of false prophecy: it removes the consequences of choice. Instead of calling people to return to God (the true prophet's role), it promises safety while people remain in rebellion. This makes the false prophet not a guide but an accomplice to the people's downfall.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 23:17
What does Jeremiah 23:17 mean?
The false prophets promise safety to the wicked and those who refuse to repent.
What is the context of Jeremiah 23:17?
Jeremiah specifies the lie the false prophets spread.