Jeremiah 36:25

Even though Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah urged the king not to burn the scroll, he would not listen to them.

Study Bible

Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah
These three individuals are mentioned as officials in the court of King Jehoiakim. Their presence in this narrative highlights the existence of a remnant within the leadership who respected the prophetic word of God. Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah represent those who, despite being in positions of power, were willing to stand against the king's actions. Historically, these names are significant as they reflect the lineage and heritage of the people of Judah. Elnathan, for instance, is mentioned elsewhere in the Bible as a figure involved in diplomatic missions (Jeremiah 26:22). Their actions demonstrate the courage required to stand for truth in the face of authority, a timeless principle for believers.

urged the king
The Hebrew root for "urged" conveys a sense of pleading or earnest entreaty. This suggests that Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah were not merely making a casual suggestion but were passionately advocating for the preservation of the scroll. Their urging reflects a deep respect for the word of God and a recognition of its importance. In a broader scriptural context, this act of urging is reminiscent of the prophets who consistently called the people and their leaders back to faithfulness to God's covenant.

not to burn the scroll
The scroll represents the written word of God delivered through the prophet Jeremiah. In ancient times, scrolls were the primary medium for recording important texts, and their destruction was a significant act of defiance against the message contained within. The burning of the scroll symbolizes a rejection of God's word and a refusal to heed divine warning. This act of destruction is a stark reminder of the consequences of ignoring God's instructions and the lengths to which some will go to silence His voice.

he would not listen to them
The king's refusal to listen is indicative of a hardened heart and a willful rejection of God's message. In the Hebrew context, listening is often synonymous with obedience. Thus, the king's refusal to listen is not just a failure to hear but a deliberate choice to disobey. This phrase serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pride and the refusal to submit to God's authority. It underscores the importance of humility and openness to divine correction, qualities that are essential for spiritual growth and alignment with God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elnathan
A court official during the reign of King Jehoiakim. He is noted for his attempt to persuade the king not to destroy the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies.

2. Delaiah
Another official in King Jehoiakim's court who, along with Elnathan and Gemariah, tried to prevent the king from burning the scroll.

3. Gemariah
A scribe and son of Shaphan, who also urged the king not to burn the scroll. His house was where Baruch read Jeremiah's scroll to the people.

4. King Jehoiakim
The king of Judah who defiantly burned the scroll containing the words of the Lord as delivered by Jeremiah, showing his disregard for God's message.

5. The Scroll
A written document containing the prophecies of Jeremiah, which was read aloud to the people and the king, and subsequently burned by King Jehoiakim.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Heeding God's Word
The refusal of King Jehoiakim to listen to the warnings in the scroll serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignoring God's Word.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah demonstrate the courage to stand for truth, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

The Role of Prophets and Messengers
Jeremiah's role as a prophet underscores the importance of delivering God's message faithfully, regardless of the audience's response.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's actions led to further judgment upon Judah, illustrating the serious consequences of disobedience to God.

The Preservation of God's Word
Despite Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy the scroll, God's Word endures, reminding us of its eternal nature and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the actions of Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah in trying to prevent the king from burning the scroll?

2. How does King Jehoiakim's response to the scroll compare to King Josiah's response to the Book of the Law in 2 Kings 22?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate courage in standing for God's truth in our own lives?

4. How does the account of Jeremiah 36:25 illustrate the enduring nature of God's Word, and how can this encourage us today?

5. What are some modern-day examples of rejecting or ignoring God's message, and how can we respond differently?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22
This chapter describes King Josiah's response to the Book of the Law, contrasting Jehoiakim's rejection with Josiah's repentance and reform.

Jeremiah 26
This chapter recounts another instance where Jeremiah's life was threatened for delivering God's message, highlighting the persistent resistance to prophetic warnings.

Acts 7
Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin, where he recounts Israel's history of rejecting prophets, parallels the rejection of Jeremiah's message by Jehoiakim.