Jeremiah 23:1–6

The True and Rightful Branch

23 “How terrible it will be for the shepherds who lead my people down the wrong path!” announces the Lord. “They are destroying and scattering the sheep that belong to my flock.”

2So the Lord, the God of Israel, speaks to the shepherds who take care of my people. He tells them, “You have scattered my sheep. You have driven them away. You have not taken good care of them. So I will punish you for the evil things you have done,” announces the Lord.

3“I myself will gather together those who are left alive in my flock. I will gather them out of all of the countries where I have driven them. And I will bring them back to their own land. There my sheep will have many lambs. Their numbers will increase.

4“I will place shepherds over them who will take good care of them. My sheep will not be afraid or terrified anymore. And none of them will be missing,” announces the Lord.

5 “A new day is coming,” announces the Lord.

“At that time I will raise up from David’s royal line

a true and rightful Branch.

He will be a King who will rule wisely.

He will do what is fair and right in the land.

6 In his days Judah will be saved.

Israel will live in safety.

And the Branch will be called

The Lord Who Makes Us Right With Himself.