1. "Peace, peace," when there is no peace (1-15)

The Lord told his people to flee Jerusalem, for disaster was coming from the north (Babylon) to destroy them. Jeremiah repeated, "This is what the Lord Almighty says" (6,9,16,21,22). The Lord would punish them for oppression (6), wickedness (7), greed and deceit (13), and detestable conduct (15). God's people were sick and wounded (7), but they acted as if everything was fine (14). They felt no shame for their sins. The Lord would punish them.

2. Ask where the good way is (16-30)

God wanted them to find the good path and walk in it, but they would not (16). Sacrifices and offerings are useless when people reject God's word (19-20). A merciless army was coming to attack them. They should put on sackcloth and mourn with bitter wailing, as for an only son. God would purge their rebellion, slander, corruption and wickedness, like refining ore in the fire.