Jeremiah 36:18

"It was at his dictation," Baruch replied. "He recited all these words to me and I wrote them in ink on the scroll."

Study Bible

Baruch replied
Baruch, the scribe and faithful companion of Jeremiah, plays a crucial role in the transmission of God's message. His name, meaning "blessed" in Hebrew, signifies his important position in the prophetic ministry. Baruch's response indicates his obedience and dedication to the task assigned to him. Historically, scribes were highly respected for their literacy and ability to record important documents, and Baruch's role underscores the importance of preserving divine revelation.

He dictated
The act of dictation here emphasizes the divine origin of the message. Jeremiah, as a prophet, receives the words directly from God, and Baruch acts as the intermediary to record them. This process highlights the prophetic tradition where God's word is communicated through human agents. The Hebrew root for "dictate" suggests a careful and deliberate transmission, ensuring the accuracy and authority of the message.

all these words
The phrase underscores the completeness and sufficiency of God's revelation. It implies that nothing was omitted or altered, reflecting the integrity of the prophetic message. In the broader biblical context, the phrase "all these words" often signifies the totality of God's commandments or revelations, reinforcing the idea that every word is significant and purposeful.

to me from his mouth
This expression emphasizes the direct communication from God to Jeremiah. The imagery of words coming from God's "mouth" conveys the personal and intimate nature of divine revelation. In the Hebrew tradition, the "mouth" of God is often associated with His creative and authoritative power, as seen in the creation narrative where God speaks the world into existence.

and I wrote them
Baruch's role as the scribe is crucial in the preservation of the prophetic message. Writing was a meticulous process in ancient times, often involving the use of papyrus or parchment. The act of writing signifies the transition from oral to written tradition, ensuring that the message could be disseminated and preserved for future generations. This also reflects the importance of literacy and documentation in maintaining the integrity of God's word.

in ink
The mention of "ink" highlights the permanence and seriousness of the recorded message. In ancient times, ink was made from natural substances and was a valuable commodity. The use of ink signifies the intention for the message to endure, contrasting with erasable or temporary writing methods. This permanence is symbolic of the enduring nature of God's word, which remains relevant and authoritative across time.

on the scroll
Scrolls were the primary medium for written documents in the ancient Near East. The use of a scroll indicates the formal and official nature of the message. Scrolls were often used for important legal, religious, and historical texts, underscoring the significance of the recorded prophecy. The scroll as a medium also suggests the unfolding of God's plan, as scrolls are unrolled to reveal their contents, much like the progressive revelation of God's will throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Baruch
The scribe and faithful companion of Jeremiah, who transcribed the words of the prophet as dictated by him.

3. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah during this time, known for his resistance to Jeremiah's prophecies and his eventual destruction of the scroll.

4. The Scroll
A physical representation of God's word, written by Baruch at Jeremiah's dictation, intended to be read to the people and the king.

5. The Temple
The central place of worship in Jerusalem where the scroll was read to the people, symbolizing the presence of God among His people.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Faithful Transmission
Baruch's role as a scribe highlights the importance of accurately preserving and transmitting God's word. In our lives, we should be diligent in studying and sharing Scripture faithfully.

The Power of God's Word
Despite King Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy the scroll, God's word endures. This teaches us that God's word is indestructible and will accomplish His purposes regardless of human opposition.

Obedience to God's Call
Both Jeremiah and Baruch demonstrate obedience to God's call, even in the face of danger. We are encouraged to follow God's leading, trusting in His protection and provision.

The Role of Scripture in Conviction and Repentance
The reading of the scroll was intended to lead the people to repentance. Similarly, we should allow Scripture to convict us and guide us toward repentance and transformation.

Partnership in Ministry
The collaboration between Jeremiah and Baruch illustrates the importance of partnership in ministry. We are reminded to support and work alongside others in fulfilling God's mission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Baruch's role as a scribe reflect the importance of preserving and transmitting God's word in our own lives today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are faithfully sharing God's word with others, as Baruch did with Jeremiah's prophecies?

3. How does the indestructibility of God's word, as seen in this passage, encourage you in your personal faith journey?

4. What can we learn from Jeremiah and Baruch about obedience to God's call, even when it involves personal risk or sacrifice?

5. How can we foster partnerships in ministry within our own communities, following the example of Jeremiah and Baruch's collaboration?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Timothy 3:16-17
This passage emphasizes the divine inspiration of Scripture, similar to how Jeremiah's words were directly from God, highlighting the authority and purpose of God's word.

Exodus 24:4
Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord, paralleling Baruch's role in recording Jeremiah's prophecies, underscoring the importance of preserving God's word.

Revelation 1:11
John is instructed to write what he sees in a scroll, showing a continuity of God's command to document His revelations for His people.