Jeremiah 36:28

"Take another scroll and rewrite on it the very words that were on the original scroll, which Jehoiakim king of Judah has burned.

Study Bible

Take another scroll
The command to "take another scroll" signifies God's unyielding determination to communicate His message despite human opposition. The Hebrew word for "scroll" is "מְגִלָּה" (megillah), which refers to a rolled document made of papyrus or leather. In ancient times, scrolls were the primary medium for recording important texts. This command underscores the permanence and resilience of God's Word, which cannot be destroyed by human actions. It serves as a reminder that God's purposes will prevail, and His message will continue to be proclaimed, regardless of attempts to suppress it.

and write on it
The instruction to "write on it" emphasizes the importance of the written word in preserving divine revelation. The Hebrew verb "כָּתַב" (kathav) means to inscribe or record. Writing was a meticulous process in ancient times, requiring skill and precision. This act of writing signifies the careful preservation and transmission of God's message. It highlights the role of the prophet as a scribe, faithfully recording the words given by God. This phrase also points to the enduring nature of Scripture, which has been meticulously preserved through generations.

all the words that were on the first scroll
The phrase "all the words that were on the first scroll" indicates the completeness and accuracy required in the transmission of God's message. The Hebrew word "כָּל" (kol) means "all" or "every," signifying that nothing should be omitted or altered. This reflects the belief in the inerrancy and sufficiency of Scripture, where every word is considered divinely inspired and essential. It underscores the responsibility of the prophet to ensure that God's message is conveyed in its entirety, without distortion or omission.

which Jehoiakim king of Judah burned up
The reference to "Jehoiakim king of Judah" highlights the historical context of the narrative. Jehoiakim was a king known for his rebellion against God and disregard for prophetic warnings. The act of burning the scroll was a deliberate attempt to reject and silence God's message. This phrase serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of rejecting divine revelation. It illustrates the futility of opposing God's will, as His Word endures despite human efforts to destroy it. The burning of the scroll symbolizes the rejection of God's authority, yet it also sets the stage for the reaffirmation of His unchanging truth.

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 wrote down the words of the Lord as dictated by Jeremiah and read them to the people.

3. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah who rejected God's word by burning the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing impending judgment due to its disobedience and idolatry.

5. The Scroll
A physical representation of God's word, initially destroyed by Jehoiakim but commanded by God to be rewritten.

Teaching Points

The Indestructibility of God's Word
God's word cannot be destroyed by human actions. Jehoiakim's burning of the scroll did not nullify God's message. This teaches us that divine truth is eternal and unchanging.

The Importance of Obedience
Jehoiakim's rejection of the scroll serves as a warning against ignoring God's commands. Obedience to God's word is crucial for spiritual well-being.

The Role of Perseverance in Ministry
Jeremiah and Baruch's commitment to rewriting the scroll demonstrates the importance of perseverance in sharing God's message, even in the face of opposition.

The Consequences of Rejecting God's Word
Jehoiakim's actions led to severe consequences for Judah. This reminds us that rejecting God's guidance can lead to spiritual and physical downfall.

The Power of Repentance and Renewal
Unlike Jehoiakim, we are called to respond to God's word with repentance and a willingness to renew our commitment to His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Jehoiakim burning the scroll challenge us to evaluate our own response to God's word?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not only hearers of the word but also doers, as emphasized in the book of James?

3. How does the perseverance of Jeremiah and Baruch inspire us to remain faithful in our own ministries or callings?

4. What are some modern-day "scrolls" that people might be tempted to "burn" or ignore, and how can we address this in our communities?

5. How can the contrast between Jehoiakim and King Josiah's responses to God's word inform our approach to scripture and obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22-23
The account of King Josiah, who found the Book of the Law and responded with repentance, contrasting Jehoiakim's rejection of God's word.

Isaiah 40:8
Emphasizes the enduring nature of God's word, which stands forever despite human attempts to destroy it.

Matthew 24:35
Jesus affirms that His words will never pass away, highlighting the eternal nature of divine revelation.

Acts 5:38-39
The apostles' perseverance in preaching the gospel despite opposition, similar to Jeremiah's persistence.