What does Jeremiah 23:4 mean?
"And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD." - Jeremiah 23:4

The verse Jeremiah 23:4 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the Lord."
This verse is part of a larger passage in the book of Jeremiah, which is a prophetic book in the Old Testament. Jeremiah was a prophet who lived during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, as the nation faced the threat of invasion and exile. In this particular chapter, Jeremiah is delivering a message from God to the people of Israel, warning them of the consequences of their sin and idolatry, as well as offering hope for their future.
The imagery of shepherds and sheep is a common metaphor in the Bible, often used to symbolize the relationship between God and his people. In this verse, God promises to raise up new shepherds who will care for his people with compassion and integrity. The role of these shepherds is to "feed" the people, which can be understood both literally, in terms of physical provision, and metaphorically, in terms of spiritual nourishment.
The promise that the people "shall fear no more, nor be dismayed" is a source of comfort and hope. It speaks to the idea of God's protection and guidance, as well as his desire for the well-being of his people. This reassurance is particularly significant in the context of the larger passage, which includes warnings of judgment and exile. Despite the difficulties and challenges that lie ahead, the people can take comfort in the knowledge that God will provide for them and protect them.
Another important aspect of this verse is the concept of lacking. God promises that his people will not be lacking, suggesting that he will provide for all their needs. This promise extends to both material provisions and spiritual guidance. It conveys the idea that God is a faithful and trustworthy provider, who will ensure that his people have everything they require to thrive.
The broader themes of this verse include God's faithfulness, compassion, and provision for his people, as well as his desire for their well-being and protection. It also speaks to the idea of leadership and the importance of having shepherds who care for and guide the community with integrity and compassion.
In a broader theological context, this verse can also be seen as pointing forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, who is often described as the Good Shepherd in the New Testament. Jesus embodies the qualities of the shepherd described in this verse, providing for the needs of his people and protecting them from harm. This verse can therefore be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the person of Christ.
In conclusion, Jeremiah 23:4 is a verse that offers hope and reassurance to the people of Israel in the midst of a difficult and uncertain time. It emphasizes God's care, protection, and provision for his people, as well as the importance of godly leadership. It also points forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in the person of Jesus Christ. This verse continues to offer comfort and encouragement to believers today, reminding them of God's faithfulness and provision in every season of life.
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Jeremiah 23:4 - "And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD."
"And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD." - Jeremiah 23:4
Jeremiah 4:23 - "I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light."
"I beheld the earth, and, lo, it was without form, and void; and the heavens, and they had no light." - Jeremiah 4:23
Jeremiah 33:23 - "Moreover the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying,"
Jeremiah 23:23 - "Am I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off?"
Jeremiah 13:23
Jeremiah 23:16,17
Jeremiah 23:18
"Moreover the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, saying," - Jeremiah 33:23
Jeremiah 25:23 - "Dedan, and Tema, and Buz, and all that are in the utmost corners,"
Jeremiah 5:23 - "But this people hath a revolting and a rebellious heart; they are revolted and gone."
Proverbs 4:23
Jeremiah 48:23 - "And upon Kiriathaim, and upon Beth-gamul, and upon Beth-meon,"
Proverbs 4:23
Proverbs 4:23
Proverbs 4:23
Proverbs 4:23
Psalm 23:4
Psalms 23:4
"Am I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God afar off?" - Jeremiah 23:23
Jeremiah 23:1 - "Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD."
Jeremiah 20:4
Jeremiah 37:4 - "Now Jeremiah came in and went out among the people: for they had not put him into prison."
Exodus 23:4
Proverbs. 4:23
Proverbs 4:23
Jeremiah 23:40 - "And I will bring an everlasting reproach upon you, and a perpetual shame, which shall not be forgotten."
Genesis 23-4
Exodus 23:4