25. “I have heard these prophets say, ‘Listen to the dream I had from God last night.’ And then they proceed to tell lies in my name.
26. How long will this go on? If they are prophets, they are prophets of deceit, inventing everything they say.
27. By telling these false dreams, they are trying to get my people to forget me, just as their ancestors did by worshiping the idols of Baal.
28. “Let these false prophets tell their dreams,but let my true messengers faithfully proclaim my every word.There is a difference between straw and grain!
29. Does not my word burn like fire?”says the lord.“Is it not like a mighty hammerthat smashes a rock to pieces?
30. “Therefore,” says the lord, “I am against these prophets who steal messages from each other and claim they are from me.
31. I am against these smooth-tongued prophets who say, ‘This prophecy is from the lord!’
32. I am against these false prophets. Their imaginary dreams are flagrant lies that lead my people into sin. I did not send or appoint them, and they have no message at all for my people. I, the lord, have spoken!
33. “Suppose one of the people or one of the prophets or priests asks you, ‘What prophecy has the lord burdened you with now?’ You must reply, ‘You are the burden! The lord says he will abandon you!’
34. “If any prophet, priest, or anyone else says, ‘I have a prophecy from the lord,’ I will punish that person along with his entire family.