15. “Therefore, this is what the Lord says concerning the prophets who prophesy in My name, though I did not send them, and who say, ‘There will never be sword or famine in this land.’ By sword and famine these prophets will meet their end.
16. The people they are prophesying to will be thrown into the streets of Jerusalem because of the famine and the sword. There will be no one to bury them — they, their wives, their sons, and their daughters. I will pour out their own evil on them.”
17. You are to speak this word to them:Let my eyes overflow with tears;day and night may they not stop, for the virgin daughter of my peoplehas been destroyed by a great disaster, an extremely severe wound.
18. If I go out to the field,look — those slain by the sword!If I enter the city,look — those ill from famine!For both prophet and priesttravel to a land they do not know.
19. Have You completely rejected Judah?Do You detest Zion?Why do You strike uswith no hope of healing for us?We hoped for peace,but there was nothing good;for a time of healing,but there was only terror.
20. We acknowledge our wickedness, Lord,the guilt of our fathers; indeed, we have sinned against You.
21. Because of Your name, don’t despise us.Don’t disdain Your glorious throne. Remember Your covenant with us;do not break it.
22. Can any of the worthless idols of the nations bring rain?Or can the skies alone give showers?Are You not the Lord our God?We therefore put our hope in You, for You have done all these things.