15. Therefore, thus says the Lord: Concerning the prophets who prophesy in my name, though I did not send them, and who say, “Sword and famine shall not befall this land”: by sword and famine shall these prophets meet their end.
16. The people to whom they prophesy shall be thrown out into the streets of Jerusalem because of famine and the sword. No one shall bury them, their wives, their sons, or their daughters, for I will pour out upon them their own wickedness.
17. Speak to them this word:Let my eyes stream with tearsnight and day, without rest,Over the great destruction which overwhelmsthe virgin daughter of my people,over her incurable wound.
18. If I walk out into the field,look! those slain by the sword;If I enter the city,look! victims of famine.Both prophet and priest ply their tradein a land they do not know.
19. Have you really cast Judah off?Is Zion loathsome to you?Why have you struck us a blowthat cannot be healed?We wait for peace, to no avail;for a time of healing, but terror comes instead.
20. We recognize our wickedness, Lord,the guilt of our ancestors:we have sinned against you.
21. Do not reject us, for your name’s sake,do not disgrace your glorious throne.Remember! Do not break your covenant with us.
22. Among the idols of the nations are there any that give rain?Or can the mere heavens send showers?Is it not you, Lord,our God, to whom we look?You alone do all these things.