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The True Shepherd and the Coming Judgment

Jeremiah 23-25

This chapter confronts the false prophets and corrupt leaders who mislead God’s people for personal gain. God declares He will gather the remnant of His flock and raise up a righteous Branch, a promised Messiah, who will reign wisely and justly. Despite the unfaithfulness around them, God’s faithful remnant can trust in His sovereign care and future restoration. The chapter highlights God’s holiness, His judgment against deception, and His ultimate plan to send a shepherd who will truly care for His people.

God shows Jeremiah a vision of two baskets of figs, one basket of good figs and one of very bad figs, symbolizing the fate of the people. The good figs represent the exiles taken to Babylon who will be preserved and blessed, while the bad figs represent those who remain in Jerusalem and face destruction. This chapter reminds us of God’s sovereign judgment but also His mercy and care for those who remain faithful, even in exile.

In this chapter, Jeremiah prophesies the coming seventy years of Babylonian captivity as God’s judgment on Judah and the surrounding nations. The chapter recounts Israel’s persistent rebellion and warns that their punishment will be long but ultimately serve God’s purpose. It also foretells God’s eventual judgment on Babylon itself. This passage emphasizes God’s righteous discipline but also His control over history and the promise that His plans will be fulfilled.

Jeremiah chapters 23 through 25 reveal God’s righteous judgment against false leaders and unfaithful people, balanced with the promise of restoration through the coming Messiah. God’s sovereignty extends over nations and individuals, ensuring that justice will prevail, but His mercy preserves a faithful remnant. The imagery of the good and bad figs reminds us that God distinguishes between those who remain faithful and those who rebel. These chapters invite us to trust in God’s perfect justice and to find hope in the promise of a true shepherd who cares for His people.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does God’s promise of a righteous Branch encourage your faith in times of spiritual confusion or false teaching?

  • What do the two baskets of figs teach us about God’s judgment and mercy in our own lives?

  • How can you discern and avoid the influence of “false prophets” or misleading voices today?

  • In what ways do these chapters deepen your understanding of God’s sovereignty over history?

  • How can you live as part of God’s faithful remnant in a world that often turns away from Him?