Jeremiah 26:10-16

Officials from the royal court of Judah were told of this. They left the palace immediately and came to GOD’s Temple to investigate. They held court on the spot, at the New Gate entrance to GOD’s Temple. The prophets and priests spoke first, addressing the officials, but also the people: “Death to this man! He deserves nothing less than death! He has preached against this city—you’ve heard the evidence with your own ears.” Jeremiah spoke next, publicly addressing the officials before the crowd: “GOD sent me to preach against both this Temple and city everything that’s been reported to you. So do something about it! Change the way you’re living, change your behavior. Listen obediently to the Message of your GOD. Maybe GOD will reconsider the disaster he has threatened. “As for me, I’m at your mercy—do whatever you think is best. But take warning: If you kill me, you’re killing an innocent man, and you and the city and the people in it will be liable. I didn’t say any of this on my own. GOD sent me and told me what to say. You’ve been listening to GOD speak, not Jeremiah.” The court officials, backed by the people, then handed down their ruling to the priests and prophets: “Acquittal. No death sentence for this man. He has spoken to us with the authority of our GOD.”