What is the meaning of Jeremiah 23:4? I will raise up shepherds over them - God Himself promises to provide new leadership for His people, replacing the corrupt rulers exposed in Jeremiah 23:1–2. - These “shepherds” include faithful prophets, priests, kings like Josiah’s descendants, and ultimately the Messiah, “a righteous Branch” (Jeremiah 23:5). - Cross references: Jeremiah 3:15 “I will give you shepherds after My own heart”; Ezekiel 34:23 “I will place over them one Shepherd, My servant David”; Ephesians 4:11 speaks of pastors given “to equip the saints.” Who will tend them - True shepherds feed, guide, and guard. The verb points to patient, daily care. - Jesus models perfect tending: “Shepherd My sheep” (John 21:16). - Psalm 23:1–2 pictures restful nourishment; 1 Peter 5:2 urges elders, “Shepherd God’s flock… not under compulsion but willingly.” They will no longer be afraid - With godly leadership, fear evaporates. Sheep feel safe when the shepherd is near. - Psalm 23:4 “I will fear no evil, for You are with me”; Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you.” - Christ’s presence accomplishes this: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27). Nor will they be dismayed - “Dismayed” speaks of ongoing anxiety or shattered morale. God replaces confusion with confidence. - Joshua 1:9 “Do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you”; Isaiah 40:31 shows renewed strength for those who hope in Him. - Under godly care, believers stand firm rather than scatter. Nor will any go missing - Every sheep is accounted for; none slip through the cracks. - Jeremiah 23:3 already promised gathering the remnant. - Luke 15:4 portrays the shepherd seeking the one lost sheep; John 10:28 “No one can snatch them out of My hand.” - Eternal security rests on the Shepherd’s grip, not the sheep’s strength. Declares the LORD - The verse closes with God’s signature, guaranteeing fulfillment. - Isaiah 55:11 “My word will not return to Me void”; Numbers 23:19 “God is not a man, that He should lie.” - Hebrews 6:17–18 underscores the unchangeable nature of His purpose, anchoring our hope. summary Jeremiah 23:4 promises a divinely supplied line of faithful shepherds culminating in Christ. Their ministry brings nourishment, calm, courage, and security, ensuring not one of God’s people is lost. Because the Lord Himself has declared it, we can trust the promise completely and rest under the care of our Good Shepherd. |
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