Although we are going to concentrate on Jeremiah 23:1-6, it is important to note that these verses are a part of a larger section that is best understood in its entirety. This section contains a collection of prophecies concerning the Davidic kings. It is not important that it be broken down verse by verse, but rather theme by theme. The first section is a lament over Jehoiakim (22:1-9); then Jeremiah's judgment speech against Jehoiakim (22:10-12); a lament over Jerusalem's disaster (22:20-23); speeches against Jehoiakim (22:24-30); and a description of what a false ruler will look like against a true ruler (23:1-8).

How much attention was paid to the maintenance of justice was a major responsibility inherent with being a leader, especially a king. In Judah, the obligation was intrinsic t…