1. Woe to false shepherds (1-2)

The false shepherds--kings, priests, prophets--did not care for God's sheep. Rather, they scattered and destroyed them. They did not lead the people in the true way of faith and obedience to God, but encouraged them to follow the idols and culture of the pagan people around them. Godless people become morally corrupt. God would punish his people by the hand of a cruel invader, and they would be taken into captivity in a foreign land and be scattered.

2. The Lord our Righteousness (3-8)

God promised to personally come to gather the remnant of his people. He would put shepherds over them who would care for them so that they could serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness. Jeremiah looks forward to Jesus, the Righteous Branch, the descendant of David who would save his people. His name is 'The Lord our Righteousness.' We need the Good Shepherd Jesus; we need to be clothed with his righteousness.

Application: Lord, cleanse my sins and lead me in the way of righteousness and peace.
One Word: Jesus is my Shepherd