What role do false shepherds play according to Jeremiah's message?

In Jeremiah 23, the prophet critiques the spiritual leaders of his time for scattering the flock and giving false assurances of peace where there is none. These false shepherds represent a significant danger to the understanding of true righteousness, as they preach a gospel based on human merits and works, rather than on faith in Christ. They deny God’s judgment, obscuring His holiness and the necessity of divine justice. This warning is ever relevant; today, pastors and leaders must be faithful to preach the Word of God truthfully to guide their congregations towards the right understanding of salvation that hinges on Christ's righteousness alone, guarding against the misleading assurances offered by those who compromise the Gospel.