Jeremiah 23:2
Therefore thus saith the Lord God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Yee haue scattered my flocke and driuen them away, and haue not visited them; behold I will visite vpon you the euill of your doings, saith the Lord. Jeremiah 23:2 (KJV)
Jeremiah was a prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah during a time of great moral and spiritual decline. In Jeremiah 23 the prophet confronts the leaders of Judah, especially the shepherds or pastors who were entrusted with guiding God’s people. These leaders had failed in their duties, scattering the flock, destroying the pasture, breaking up the sheepfolds, and leaving the people vulnerable to “hungry lions” that roam in desolate places.
The verse begins with a declaration of the Lord’s dissatisfaction with those who were supposed to feed and protect His people. Instead of providing nourishment and safe pastures, the shepherds scattered the flock, drove them away, and did not visit the people—“visiting” meaning the regular care and oversight of the flock. By breaking the sheepfolds they failed to give the people a place of safety, exposing them to danger.
In response to this neglect, God pronounces judgment: “I will visit upon you the evil of your doings.” This language indicates that the leaders will face divine accountability for the harm they have caused. The warning underscores that neglectful leadership will be met with divine retribution.
Application: The passage reminds spiritual leaders of the weight of their responsibility to shepherd faithfully, providing guidance, care, and protection. Negligence not only harms those under their care but also brings severe consequences from God. The principle extends beyond formal leadership; every individual is called to be diligent and faithful in the responsibilities entrusted to them, whether in ministry, family, or community. Ultimately, Jeremiah 23:2 highlights the importance of faithful leadership, the dangers of neglect, and the certainty of divine accountability.
