Jeremiah 23:37 Meaning and Explanation
“Thus shalt thou say to the prophet, What hath the LORD answered thee? and, What hath the LORD spoken?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Even when questioning prophets, ask for God's actual word, not false oracles.
The Context of Jeremiah 23:37
A reprise of verse 35, with emphasis on the right way to interact with prophets.
What Does Jeremiah 23:37 Mean?
'Thus shalt thou say to the prophet, What hath the LORD answered thee? and, What hath the LORD spoken?'—Even in dialogue with prophets (not all of whom are false), the right question is about God's answer and God's word. The prophet is a messenger; the focus must be on the message from God, not on the prophet's authority or reputation.
This puts the burden of proof on the prophet: not 'tell me what you dreamed' or 'show me your sign' but 'what word do you carry from God?' A true prophet can answer; a false one will deflect, become angry, or offer vagueness instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jeremiah 23:37
What does Jeremiah 23:37 mean?
Even when questioning prophets, ask for God's actual word, not false oracles.
What is the context of Jeremiah 23:37?
A reprise of verse 35, with emphasis on the right way to interact with prophets.