Definition: And the prophets shall become wind, and the word [is] not in them: thus shall it be done unto them.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really powerful verse from Jeremiah 5:13. It’s a pretty dramatic statement about the future of the prophetic movement. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that the prophets – those who speak God’s word and guide people – will become empty, useless, and eventually disappear. They won't be able to offer true guidance or influence anymore. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Jeremiah 5:13” : This is the specific verse we’re focusing on. It’s from a book in the Old Testament of the Bible. “And the prophets shall become wind…” : This is a big, metaphorical comparison. "Wind" is often used to represent something fleeting, unpredictable, and not truly substantial. Think of a breeze – it doesn't have lasting power. “…and the word [is] not in them” : This means that the prophets’ words will lose their meaning and impact. Their messages won’t be heard or understood anymore. Their authority will be diminished. “thus shall it be done unto them.” : This is the crucial part. It's a warning about what happens to those who are relying on the prophets. It suggests that their influence will fade away, and they will become powerless. What does this mean in context? This verse comes from a time of great upheaval and crisis in Israel – a time when the people were rejecting God and following other gods. Jeremiah was warning them that the prophets (who tried to communicate with God) would be silenced and forgotten because their message wouldn't resonate with those who were rejecting him. It’s a prediction about the end of an era of prophetic leadership. Why is this a significant verse? It highlights the importance of true faith: The verse emphasizes that genuine belief in God is crucial – it's not enough to just say you believe; you must act on your belief and follow God's will. It’s about the power of words: It speaks to the idea that words have weight, and if those words are lost or ineffective, they lose their value. It’s a warning against complacency: It's a reminder that we must stay vigilant in our faith and continue to speak God’s truth, even when it feels difficult. In short, the verse warns us that the prophetic movement will weaken and eventually disappear, suggesting a loss of spiritual guidance. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss the historical context surrounding this verse? Explore other Bible verses related to prophets or faith?