Jeremiah 23:4

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will set up {H6965} shepherds {H7462} over them which shall feed {H7462} them: and they shall fear {H3372} no more, nor be dismayed {H2865}, neither shall they be lacking {H6485}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will appoint shepherds over them who will shepherd them; then they will no longer be afraid or disgraced; and none will be missing," says ADONAI

Berean Standard Bible

I will raise up shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or dismayed, nor will any go missing, declares the LORD.

American Standard Version

And I will set up shepherds over them, who shall feed them; and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be lacking, saith Jehovah.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Jeremiah 23:4 delivers a profound promise of divine restoration and righteous leadership for God's scattered and oppressed people. Following a scathing indictment of corrupt human leaders, this verse declares the Lord's sovereign intent to raise up faithful shepherds who will genuinely care for His flock. The result will be a profound sense of security, freedom from fear and dismay, and a complete absence of any lack, signifying a future of peace, provision, and wholeness under God's direct and benevolent oversight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Jeremiah 23:4 stands as a beacon of hope within a chapter that begins with a severe condemnation of the unfaithful leaders of Judah. Verses 1-2 pronounce a "woe" upon the "shepherds" (kings, priests, and prophets) who have neglected, scattered, and destroyed God's flock, leading them astray and exposing them to danger. This immediate context highlights the stark contrast between human failure and divine faithfulness. Verse 3 then promises that God Himself will gather the remnant of His flock from all the lands where He has driven them, bringing them back to their pasture. Verse 4, therefore, builds directly on this promise of regathering, assuring that once gathered, they will be placed under new, divinely appointed leadership, ensuring their safety and flourishing. This sets the stage for the even greater messianic promise in [Jeremiah 23:5-6](/jeremiah/23-5 "Jeremiah 23:5-6 - The Righteous Branch"), which identifies the ultimate "Righteous Branch" who will reign as the perfect King and Shepherd.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jeremiah ministered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of several kings, from Josiah to Zedekiah, leading up to the Babylonian exile (late 7th to early 6th century BCE). The nation was plagued by political instability, idolatry, social injustice, and corrupt leadership. Kings like Jehoiakim and Zedekiah were particularly unfaithful, leading the people further into sin and political alliances that ultimately brought about their downfall. The metaphor of "shepherds" for rulers was common in the ancient Near East, signifying their responsibility to protect, guide, and provide for their people, much like a shepherd cares for his flock. In this context, Jeremiah's prophecy directly addresses the failure of these human "shepherds" and promises a divine intervention to rectify the catastrophic consequences of their negligence, offering hope in a time of despair and impending judgment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Jeremiah and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Sovereignty and Providence**, emphasizing that God remains in control despite human failure and will ultimately fulfill His purposes for His people. The promise of new, righteous "shepherds" highlights the theme of **Righteous Leadership**, contrasting with the pervasive corruption of the time and foreshadowing the ideal leadership found in the Messiah. The assurances that the people "shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking" speak directly to themes of **Security, Peace, and Divine Provision**, which are central to God's covenant relationship with Israel. This vision of a restored, secure, and well-provided-for flock under God's care is a recurring motif, echoing the comforting imagery found in [Psalm 23](/psalms/23 "Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd") and pointing towards the ultimate restoration of God's people.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **set up (Hebrew, _qûwm'_):** H6965, a primitive root meaning "to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative); abide, accomplish, confirm, continue, decree, endure, get up, make good, ordain, perform, pitch, raise (up), rear (up), remain, (a-) rise (up) (again, against), rouse up, set (up), (e-) stablish, (make to) stand (up), stir up, strengthen, succeed, (as-, make) sure(-ly), (be) up(-hold, -rising)." In this context, "set up" signifies God's deliberate and authoritative act of establishing new, legitimate leaders. It's an act of divine ordination, ensuring the stability and permanence of this new leadership.
* **feed (Hebrew, _râʻâh'_):** H7462, a primitive root meaning "to tend a flock; i.e. pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a friend); break, companion, keep company with, devour, eat up, evil entreat, feed, use as a friend, make friendship with, herdman, keep (sheep) (-er), pastor, shepherd, wander, waste." This word, translated as "feed," is the very root for "shepherds" (rōʿeh). It encapsulates the full range of a shepherd's duties: guiding, protecting, providing nourishment, and caring for the flock. It implies a holistic, compassionate, and effective leadership that contrasts sharply with the destructive behavior of the former leaders.
* **dismayed (Hebrew, _châthath'_):** H2865, a primitive root meaning "to prostrate; hence, to break down, either (literal) by violence, or (figurative) by confusion and fear; abolish, affright, be (make) afraid, amaze, beat down, discourage, (cause to) dismay, go down, scare, terrify." This term describes a state of utter terror, confusion, and internal collapse, often resulting from external threats or overwhelming circumstances. The promise that they "shall not be dismayed" signifies a profound inner peace and confidence, a complete absence of the psychological and emotional distress caused by insecure and corrupt leadership.
* **lacking (Hebrew, _pâqad'_):** H6485, a primitive root meaning "to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc.; appoint, avenge, bestow, (appoint to have the, give a) charge, commit, count, deliver to keep, be empty, enjoin, go see, hurt, do judgment, lack, lay up, look, make, miss, number, officer, (make) overseer, have (the) oversight, punish, reckon, (call to) remember(-brance), set (over), sum, surely, visit, want." In this context, "lacking" or "missing" implies that none of the flock will be lost, strayed, or unaccounted for. It conveys a sense of complete provision, security, and meticulous care, ensuring that every member of the flock is present and well-cared for, not wanting for anything essential.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will set up shepherds over them":** This opening clause immediately establishes God's direct and sovereign initiative. It is not human effort or political reform that will bring about this change, but a divine act of appointing new, righteous leaders. The "them" refers to the scattered and oppressed people of Israel, whom God has just promised to gather.
* **"which shall feed them":** This defines the primary characteristic and responsibility of these divinely appointed shepherds. Unlike the previous leaders who "scattered" and "destroyed" the flock (Jeremiah 23:1), these new shepherds will genuinely "feed" them, implying comprehensive care, guidance, spiritual nourishment, protection, and provision for all their needs.
* **"and they shall fear no more":** This marks a dramatic shift from the previous state of the people. Under corrupt leadership, the people lived in fear – fear of injustice, fear of enemies, fear of punishment. This promise signifies a profound sense of security and freedom from external threats and internal anxiety.
* **"nor be dismayed":** This phrase reinforces the previous one, emphasizing an internal state of peace. "Dismayed" speaks to a deep sense of terror, confusion, or being utterly broken. God's promise ensures that His people will no longer experience this psychological and emotional distress, finding true stability and confidence.
* **"neither shall they be lacking":** This final assurance speaks to complete provision and wholeness. It means that none of the flock will be lost, missing, or wanting for anything essential. It implies meticulous care, ensuring that every member is accounted for, protected, and fully provided for, reflecting God's perfect oversight.
* **"saith the LORD.":** This concluding phrase serves as a divine authentication, emphasizing the absolute certainty and authority of the promise. It is not a human hope or a mere possibility, but a solemn declaration from Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God, guaranteeing its fulfillment.

#### Literary Devices
Jeremiah 23:4 is rich in **Metaphor**, primarily the **shepherd-flock motif**, which is central to understanding God's relationship with His people and the role of leadership. God is the ultimate Shepherd, and His people are His flock. Human leaders are depicted as subordinate shepherds, whose faithfulness is measured by their care for the flock. The verse also employs **Parallelism** in the threefold promise of security: "fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking." This rhetorical device amplifies the completeness and certainty of the promised peace and provision. Furthermore, the concluding phrase, "saith the LORD," is a classic example of a **Divine Oracle Formula**, which authenticates the prophecy as a direct, authoritative word from God, imbuing the promise with absolute certainty and divine guarantee.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse is a powerful declaration of God's unwavering faithfulness and His commitment to His covenant people, even when human leadership fails spectacularly. It underscores the divine prerogative to establish and sustain righteous leadership, ensuring the well-being of His flock. The promise of freedom from fear, dismay, and lack speaks to God's desire for His people's holistic flourishing—spiritual, emotional, and physical security. It prefigures a time of ultimate peace and provision under God's perfect rule, a theme that resonates throughout biblical prophecy concerning the Messianic age.

* [Ezekiel 34:23-24](/ezekiel/34-23 "Ezekiel 34:23-24 - God's Promise of One Shepherd, David")
* [Isaiah 40:11](/isaiah/40-11 "Isaiah 40:11 - The Shepherd's Care")
* [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jeremiah 23:4 offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today. In a world often marked by corrupt leadership, instability, and fear, this verse reminds us that God Himself is the ultimate Shepherd who watches over His flock. It calls us to place our trust not in human institutions or leaders, but in the sovereign care of the Lord, who promises to provide true spiritual nourishment, protection, and peace. For those in positions of leadership, whether in the church, family, or society, this verse serves as a sober reminder of the high calling to selfless, compassionate, and responsible care for those entrusted to them, mirroring God's own shepherding heart. It encourages us to pray for and support righteous leaders, and to strive to embody these shepherding qualities in our own spheres of influence, always pointing to the ultimate Good Shepherd.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Jeremiah 23:4 challenge your perspective on human leadership, both secular and spiritual?**
* **In what areas of your life do you currently experience "fear," "dismay," or "lacking," and how does this promise of God's shepherding care speak to those areas?**
* **What practical steps can you take to "feed" or care for those God has placed in your sphere of influence, reflecting the heart of a good shepherd?**

### FAQ
**Who are these "shepherds" that God promises to set up over His people?**

Answer: The "shepherds" promised in Jeremiah 23:4 refer to a new generation of righteous and faithful leaders, divinely appointed by God, who will genuinely care for His people. Historically, this promise began to be fulfilled through figures like Zerubbabel and later leaders who guided the returned exiles. Theologically and prophetically, however, these "shepherds" find their ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the coming Messiah, the "Righteous Branch" mentioned in [Jeremiah 23:5](/jeremiah/23-5 "Jeremiah 23:5 - The Righteous Branch"). He is the one true and perfect Shepherd who embodies all the qualities of righteous leadership, ensuring His flock will never fear, be dismayed, or be lacking. In the New Testament, this extends to the apostles and elders (pastors) who are called to shepherd God's flock under the authority of Christ, the Chief Shepherd ([1 Peter 5:2-4](/1_peter/5-2 "1 Peter 5:2-4 - Shepherding the Flock of God")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jeremiah 23:4 finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The promise of God raising up faithful "shepherds" who will genuinely "feed" His people and ensure they "fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking" is perfectly realized in Jesus, the [Good Shepherd](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - Jesus, the Good Shepherd"). He is the "Righteous Branch" prophesied just one verse later in [Jeremiah 23:5](/jeremiah/23-5 "Jeremiah 23:5 - The Righteous Branch"), who reigns with wisdom and executes justice and righteousness on earth. Unlike the false shepherds who scattered the flock, Jesus gathers His sheep, laying down His life for them ([John 10:15](/john/10-15 "John 10:15 - The Good Shepherd Lays Down His Life")). Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, He provides the ultimate spiritual nourishment, protection from the enemy, and eternal security. In Him, believers truly "fear no more" because He has overcome the world ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Overcomes the World")), and they are not "dismayed" because His peace guards their hearts and minds ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The Peace of God")). Furthermore, in Christ, His followers "shall not be lacking" any spiritual blessing ([Ephesians 1:3](/ephesians/1-3 "Ephesians 1:3 - Spiritual Blessings in Christ")) and are assured of His constant provision, for He is the one who satisfies every need according to His riches in glory ([Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "Philippians 4:19 - God Will Supply All Your Needs")). He is the embodiment of God's perfect shepherding care, ensuring the eternal well-being of His redeemed flock.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 3:14

Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion:

Jeremiah 3:15

And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.

1 Peter 1:5

Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

John 17:12

While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

Numbers 31:49

And they said unto Moses, Thy servants have taken the sum of the men of war which [are] under our charge, and there lacketh not one man of us.

Jeremiah 33:26

Then will I cast away the seed of Jacob, and David my servant, [so] that I will not take [any] of his seed [to be] rulers over the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: for I will cause their captivity to return, and have mercy on them.

John 6:39

And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.