Jeremiah 36:27

After the king had burned the scroll containing the words that Baruch had written at Jeremiah's dictation, the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah:

Study Bible

After the king had burned the scroll
This phrase marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting the defiance of King Jehoiakim against God's word. The Hebrew root for "burned" (שָׂרַף, saraph) conveys a sense of complete destruction by fire, symbolizing the king's blatant rejection of divine instruction. Historically, this act of burning a scroll was not just a physical destruction but a symbolic gesture of contempt towards the prophetic message. In the ancient Near Eastern context, scrolls were precious and laboriously crafted, making their destruction a significant act of rebellion. This phrase sets the stage for understanding the gravity of the king's actions and the subsequent divine response.

containing the words that Baruch had written
Baruch, the scribe, played a crucial role as Jeremiah's faithful assistant, transcribing the prophet's messages. The Hebrew term for "words" (דְּבָרִים, devarim) often signifies not just spoken words but divine utterances with authority and power. Baruch's role underscores the importance of preserving God's word, even in the face of opposition. This phrase reminds us of the enduring nature of God's message, which cannot be extinguished by human actions. The historical context of scribes in ancient Israel highlights their vital role in maintaining and transmitting sacred texts, emphasizing the divine-human partnership in the communication of God's will.

at Jeremiah’s dictation
The process of dictation here indicates a direct transmission of divine revelation from God to Jeremiah, and then to Baruch. The Hebrew root for "dictation" (קָרָא, qara) implies a calling or proclamation, suggesting that Jeremiah was not merely speaking his own thoughts but conveying a message from God. This phrase emphasizes the prophetic authority of Jeremiah, who serves as God's mouthpiece. In the broader scriptural context, this highlights the concept of inspiration, where human authors are guided by the Holy Spirit to communicate God's truth. It serves as a reminder of the divine origin and authority of Scripture.

the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah
This phrase introduces a new divine revelation, underscoring the persistence of God's communication despite human resistance. The Hebrew term for "word" (דָּבָר, davar) is rich with meaning, often denoting a matter or thing, but in this context, it signifies a powerful, active, and living message from God. The phrase "the word of the LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is a recurring biblical motif, emphasizing the covenantal relationship between God and His people. It reassures believers of God's unwavering commitment to communicate His will and purpose, regardless of human attempts to silence it. This phrase serves as a testament to the resilience and invincibility of God's word throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often facing opposition and persecution.

2. Baruch
Jeremiah's scribe who faithfully recorded the words of the prophet as dictated by him.

3. King Jehoiakim
The king of Judah who, in defiance of God's word, burned the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. The Scroll
A written document containing the prophecies of Jeremiah, which was destroyed by King Jehoiakim.

5. The Word of the LORD
The divine message given to Jeremiah, emphasizing the enduring nature of God's word despite human attempts to suppress it.

Teaching Points

The Indestructibility of God's Word
Despite human efforts to suppress or destroy it, God's word remains eternal and unchanging.

Faithfulness in Delivering God's Message
Like Jeremiah and Baruch, believers are called to faithfully proclaim God's truth, regardless of opposition.

The Consequences of Rejecting God's Word
King Jehoiakim's actions serve as a warning of the spiritual peril in rejecting divine revelation.

The Role of Scripture in Our Lives
Scripture should be cherished, studied, and obeyed as the authoritative guide for faith and practice.

God's Sovereignty in Communication
God ensures His message is delivered and preserved, demonstrating His control over all circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reaction of King Jehoiakim to the scroll reflect common attitudes towards God's word today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are faithfully delivering God's message like Jeremiah and Baruch?

3. What are some modern "scrolls" that people might metaphorically "burn" in their rejection of God's word?

4. How can the assurance of the indestructibility of God's word encourage us in our personal faith journey?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to Jeremiah 36:27 reinforce the theme of the enduring nature of God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 40:8
This verse highlights the enduring nature of God's word, similar to how Jeremiah's message persisted despite the king's attempt to destroy it.

Matthew 24:35
Jesus speaks about the permanence of His words, echoing the theme of the indestructibility of divine revelation.

Acts 5:39
The apostles' experience with opposition reflects the futility of resisting God's plans, akin to Jehoiakim's actions against Jeremiah's scroll.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
Emphasizes the divine inspiration and usefulness of Scripture, reinforcing the importance of preserving and adhering to God's word.