◄ Jeremiah 36 ►
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Jeremiah’s Scroll Read in the Temple 1In the fourth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, this word came to Jeremiah from the LORD: 2“Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations, from the day I first spoke to you during the reign of Josiah until today. 3Perhaps when the people of Judah hear about all the calamity I plan to bring upon them, each of them will turn from his wicked way. Then I will forgive their iniquity and their sin.” 4So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and at the dictation of Jeremiah, Baruch wrote on a scroll all the words that the LORD had spoken to Jeremiah. 5Then Jeremiah commanded Baruch, “I am restricted; I cannot enter the house of the LORD; 6so you are to go to the house of the LORD on a day of fasting, and in the hearing of the people you are to read the words of the LORD from the scroll you have written at my dictation. Read them in the hearing of all the people of Judah who are coming from their cities. 7Perhaps they will bring their petition before the LORD, and each one will turn from his wicked way; for great are the anger and fury that the LORD has pronounced against this people.” 8So Baruch son of Neriah did everything that Jeremiah the prophet had commanded him. In the house of the LORD he read the words of the LORD from the scroll. 9Now in the ninth month of the fifth year of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah, a fast before the LORD was proclaimed to all the people of Jerusalem and all who had come there from the cities of Judah. 10From the chamber of Gemariah son of Shaphan the scribe, which was in the upper courtyard at the opening of the New Gate of the house of the LORD, Baruch read from the scroll the words of Jeremiah in the hearing of all the people. Jeremiah’s Scroll Read in the Palace 11When Micaiah son of Gemariah, the son of Shaphan, heard all the words of the LORD from the scroll, 12he went down to the scribe’s chamber in the king’s palace, where all the officials were sitting: Elishama the scribe, Delaiah son of Shemaiah, Elnathan son of Achbor, Gemariah son of Shaphan, Zedekiah son of Hananiah, and all the other officials. 13And Micaiah reported to them all the words he had heard Baruch read from the scroll in the hearing of the people. 14Then all the officials sent word to Baruch through Jehudi son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Cushi, saying, “Bring the scroll that you read in the hearing of the people, and come here.” So Baruch son of Neriah took the scroll and went to them. 15“Please sit down,” they said, “and read it in our hearing.” So Baruch read it in their hearing. 16When they had heard all these words, they turned to one another in fear and said to Baruch, “Surely we must report all these words to the king.” 17“Tell us now,” they asked Baruch, “how did you write all these words? Was it at Jeremiah’s dictation?” 18“It was at his dictation,” Baruch replied. “He recited all these words to me and I wrote them in ink on the scroll.” 19Then the officials said to Baruch, “You and Jeremiah must hide yourselves and tell no one where you are.” Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll 20So the officials went to the king in the courtyard. And having stored the scroll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, they reported everything to the king. 21Then the king sent Jehudi to get the scroll, and he took it from the chamber of Elishama the scribe. And Jehudi read it in the hearing of the king and all the officials who were standing beside him. 22Since it was the ninth month, the king was sitting in his winter quarters with a fire burning before him. 23And as soon as Jehudi had read three or four columns, Jehoiakim would cut them off with a scribe’s knife and throw them into the firepot, until the entire scroll had been consumed by the fire. 24Yet in hearing all these words, the king and his servants did not become frightened or tear their garments. 25Even though Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah urged the king not to burn the scroll, he would not listen to them. 26Instead, the king commanded Jerahmeel, a son of the king, as well as Seraiah son of Azriel and Shelemiah son of Abdeel, to seize Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet. But the LORD had hidden them. Jeremiah Rewrites the Scroll 27After 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: 28“Take another scroll and rewrite on it the very words that were on the original scroll, which Jehoiakim king of Judah has burned. 29You are to proclaim concerning Jehoiakim king of Judah that this is what the LORD says: You have burned the scroll and said, ‘Why have you written on it that the king of Babylon would surely come and destroy this land and deprive it of man and beast?’ 30Therefore this is what the LORD says about Jehoiakim king of Judah: He will have no one to sit on David’s throne, and his body will be thrown out and exposed to heat by day and frost by night. 31I will punish him and his descendants and servants for their iniquity. I will bring on them, on the residents of Jerusalem, and on the men of Judah, all the calamity about which I warned them but they did not listen.” 32Then Jeremiah took another scroll and gave it to the scribe Baruch son of Neriah, and at Jeremiah’s dictation he wrote on it all the words of the scroll that Jehoiakim king of Judah had burned in the fire. And many similar words were added to them. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Jeremiah 36 Summary Jeremiah's Scroll Verses 1–3 – God Commands a Scroll of Warning and Hope In the fourth year of King Jehoiakim (c. 604 BC), the LORD tells Jeremiah: “Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations” (Jeremiah 36:2). The goal is repentance so that “I may forgive their iniquity and their sin” (v. 3). Verses 4–8 – Baruch Pens the Prophecy and Publishes It at the Temple Jeremiah dictates; Baruch son of Neriah writes. Because Jeremiah is barred from the Temple precinct, Baruch reads the scroll on a special fast day, hoping the people will plead for mercy (vv. 6–7). Verses 9–19 – Officials Hear, Tremble, and Conceal the Scroll In the fifth year, ninth month, Baruch’s reading reaches royal officials. They ask him to reread privately, respond in fear, and advise hiding Jeremiah and Baruch while they brief the king. Verses 20–26 – Jehoiakim Burns the Scroll and Seeks to Silence Jeremiah In his winter house, Jehoiakim listens as Jehudi reads. Every three or four columns, the king slices them off with a scribe’s knife and tosses them into the fire (v. 23). Though officials beg him to stop, he commands the arrest of Jeremiah and Baruch, but “the LORD had hidden them” (v. 26). Verses 27–32 – A New Scroll and Judgment on the King God tells Jeremiah to write again, adding a sentence of doom: Jehoiakim’s body will be exposed to heat by day and frost by night, and none of his descendants will sit securely on David’s throne (vv. 30–31). Baruch writes “on a second scroll … in it were added many similar words” (v. 32). Jeremiah 36 is a powerful chapter in the biblical book of Jeremiah, painting a vivid picture of the struggle between divine authority and human rebellion. In this chapter, God's word, proclaimed through the prophet Jeremiah, is met with flagrant defiance by King Jehoiakim, illustrating the destructive consequences of rejecting God's message. Historical Snapshot: 604–603 BC • Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon has just defeated Egypt at Carchemish (605 BC) and pressed southward. • Judah is a vassal state, politically unstable. Jehoiakim keeps shifting loyalties between Egypt and Babylon (2 Kings 24:1). • Jeremiah has prophesied for over twenty years, first under reform-minded King Josiah, now under Josiah’s hostile son Jehoiakim. Political and Religious Climate Josiah’s generation heard the Book of the Law and tore their garments in repentance (2 Kings 22). Jehoiakim, given a fresh scroll of God’s word, literally tears it apart and burns it. The account contrasts two royal responses to Scripture—humility versus contempt. The Scroll: Materials, Methods, and Archaeology • Scrolls were typically made of papyrus or leather. A “column” (v. 23) was a section read as a unit, roughly equal to a modern paragraph. • Cutting the scroll with a scribe’s knife shows deliberate rejection; the knife normally trimmed pages, not erased the message. • Clay seal impressions (bullae) bearing the names “Baruch son of Neriah” and “Jeremiah” have surfaced in Jerusalem’s antiquities market. While their provenance is debated, they agree with the names and titles in this chapter and illustrate how officials authenticated documents. Baruch son of Neriah: The Unsung Hero Baruch appears elsewhere helping Jeremiah purchase a field (Jeremiah 32:12) and sharing his hardships (ch. 45). His perseverance—writing, re-writing, reading publicly, and risking arrest—demonstrates that God often uses faithful aides to carry His word forward. Jehoiakim’s Reaction in Light of Scripture • Deuteronomy 17:18–20 required kings to hand-copy God’s law and read it daily. Jehoiakim instead destroys it. • Psalm 2 warns rulers who “rage against the LORD” that God “laughs” and installs His chosen King. Jeremiah 36 enacts that warning. • Jeremiah had already predicted Jehoiakim’s dishonorable burial (Jeremiah 22:18–19). Chapter 36 shows the king sealing his own fate. The Word Preserved: Scriptural Echoes • Isaiah 40:8: “The word of our God stands forever.” Burning a scroll does not erase God’s message. • 1 Peter 1:24–25 cites the same truth when encouraging believers under pressure. • Acts 4:25–31: Early Christians, threatened by authorities, recall Psalm 2 and pray for boldness, echoing Jeremiah and Baruch’s experience of hiding yet continuing to speak. The Fast Day and Public Reading A “fast before the LORD” (v. 6) suggests national crisis—likely Babylonian aggression. Public reading of Scripture on fast days (Nehemiah 8) allowed even illiterate citizens to hear God’s word. Baruch strategically chooses that setting, counting on a receptive crowd. Prophetic Judgment on Jehoiakim’s Dynasty “No one belonging to him will sit on the throne of David” (v. 30). • Jehoiakim’s son Jehoiachin reigns only three months before Babylon deports him (2 Kings 24:8–15). • The promise of a future everlasting Davidic king therefore bypasses Jehoiakim’s line, later fulfilled in Jesus through Solomon-Nathan dual genealogy paths (Matthew 1; Luke 3). Timeless Truths and Living Applications • God’s word can be rejected, but it cannot be extinguished. A new scroll appears, “with many similar words” (v. 32). • Repentance remains God’s first offer (v. 3). Judgment follows only when the offer is despised. • Bold obedience sometimes means public proclamation (Baruch in the Temple) and sometimes strategic retreat (the LORD hides His servants). • History vindicates God’s warnings: Jehoiakim dies ignobly, while the message he tried to erase lives on and still confronts readers today. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. This verse underscores the guiding power of God's Word in our lives. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness. This passage affirms the authority and usefulness of Scripture. Isaiah 55:11 So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it. This verse highlights the effectiveness of God's Word. Teaching Points The Command to Write God instructs Jeremiah to write down all the words He has spoken to him (Jeremiah 36:2). This emphasizes the importance of preserving God's message for future generations. Baruch's Role Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, faithfully writes down the words and reads them to the people (Jeremiah 36:4-8). This demonstrates the significance of faithful service and the role of God's messengers in delivering His Word. The Reaction of the Officials When the officials hear the words of the scroll, they are afraid and recognize the gravity of the message (Jeremiah 36:16). This shows that God's Word has the power to convict and stir the hearts of those who hear it. King Jehoiakim's Response In stark contrast, King Jehoiakim cuts the scroll and burns it, showing blatant disregard for God's message (Jeremiah 36:23). This act of defiance highlights the danger of rejecting God's Word. God's Sovereignty Despite the king's actions, God commands Jeremiah to write another scroll with the same words, demonstrating that His Word cannot be destroyed (Jeremiah 36:27-28). God's purposes will prevail regardless of human opposition. Practical Applications Value God's Word Just as the scroll was precious, we should treasure the Bible and prioritize reading and studying it regularly. Be Faithful Messengers Like Baruch, we are called to faithfully share God's Word with others, regardless of the potential consequences. Respond with Reverence Unlike King Jehoiakim, we should approach God's Word with humility and a willingness to be transformed by it. Trust in God's Sovereignty Even when God's Word is rejected or opposed, we can trust that His purposes will ultimately be fulfilled. People 1. Jeremiah The prophet who receives the word of the Lord. He is instructed to write down all the words spoken to him by God concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations (Jeremiah 36:1-2). The Hebrew root for his name, יִרְמְיָהוּ (Yirmeyahu), means "Yahweh will exalt" or "Yahweh throws." 2. Baruch son of Neriah Jeremiah's scribe who writes down the words of the Lord as dictated by Jeremiah. Baruch is also tasked with reading the scroll in the temple (Jeremiah 36:4-8). His name, בָּרוּךְ (Baruch), means "blessed" in Hebrew. 3. Jehoiakim son of Josiah, king of Judah The king during whose reign the events of this chapter occur. He reacts negatively to the reading of the scroll and orders it to be burned (Jeremiah 36:1, 22-23). His name, יְהוֹיָקִים (Yehoiakim), means "Yahweh raises up." 4. Jehudi son of Nethaniah, son of Shelemiah, son of Cushi A court official who is sent to bring Baruch and the scroll to the king. He reads the scroll to the king and his officials (Jeremiah 36:14, 21). The name Jehudi, יְהוּדִי (Yehudi), means "Jew" or "Judahite." 5. Elnathan son of Achbor One of the officials present when the scroll is read to the king. He is mentioned as one of those who urged the king not to burn the scroll (Jeremiah 36:12, 25). His name, אֶלְנָתָן (Elnathan), means "God has given." 6. Gemariah son of Shaphan Another official who hears the reading of the scroll and is concerned about its contents. He is also one of those who implores the king not to burn the scroll (Jeremiah 36:10, 25). His name, גְּמַרְיָהוּ (Gemaryahu), means "Yahweh has accomplished." 7. Micaiah son of Gemariah, son of Shaphan He hears Baruch reading the scroll in the temple and reports it to the officials in the king's house (Jeremiah 36:11-13). His name, מִיכָיָהוּ (Mikayahu), means "Who is like Yahweh?" 8. Zedekiah son of Hananiah Another official present during the reading of the scroll to the king. He is also among those who plead with the king not to burn the scroll (Jeremiah 36:12, 25). His name, צִדְקִיָּהוּ (Tzidqiyahu), means "Yahweh is righteousness." Places 1. Jerusalem Jerusalem is the central location where the events of Jeremiah 36 unfold. It is the capital city of Judah and the spiritual center for the Jewish people. In this chapter, the city serves as the backdrop for the prophetic activities and the reading of the scroll. 2. The House of the LORD This refers to the temple in Jerusalem, where Baruch reads the words of Jeremiah from the scroll. The temple is a significant religious site for the Israelites, serving as the place of worship and sacrifice. The Hebrew term used here is "בֵּית יְהוָה" (Beit Yahweh), meaning "House of Yahweh." 3. The Chamber of Gemariah Gemariah's chamber is located in the temple complex. Gemariah is the son of Shaphan, and his chamber is where Baruch reads the scroll to the people. This chamber is likely a room used for administrative or clerical purposes within the temple. 4. The King's House The king's house, or palace, is where King Jehoiakim resides. It is here that the scroll is eventually brought and read before the king and his officials. The palace serves as the political center of power in Judah. 5. The Chamber of Elishama the Scribe This chamber is another location within the king's house, where the scroll is read to the officials before being taken to the king. Elishama is a scribe, indicating that this chamber is likely used for record-keeping or administrative functions. Events 1. God Commands Jeremiah to Write a Scroll The word of the LORD comes to Jeremiah, instructing him to write on a scroll all the words He has spoken to him concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations from the time of Josiah until the present (Jeremiah 36:1-2). The Hebrew root for "write" (כָּתַב, kathab) emphasizes the importance of recording God's words. 2. Purpose of the Scroll God expresses His hope that the people of Judah will hear about the disaster He plans to bring upon them and turn from their wicked ways, so He may forgive their iniquity and sin (Jeremiah 36:3). The Hebrew word for "turn" (שׁוּב, shuv) is often used in the context of repentance. 3. Baruch Writes the Words of Jeremiah Jeremiah dictates the words of the LORD to Baruch, the son of Neriah, who writes them on a scroll (Jeremiah 36:4). This act of dictation underscores the prophetic authority and inspiration behind the message. 4. Baruch Reads the Scroll in the Temple During a fast, Baruch reads the words of Jeremiah from the scroll in the house of the LORD to all the people (Jeremiah 36:5-10). The public reading signifies the communal responsibility to heed God's message. 5. Officials Hear the Words and Respond Micaiah, the son of Gemariah, hears the words and reports them to the officials in the king's house. The officials send Jehudi to bring Baruch and the scroll to them (Jeremiah 36:11-14). This shows the initial interest and concern of the leaders. 6. Baruch Reads to the Officials Baruch reads the scroll to the officials, who respond with fear and decide to inform the king. They advise Baruch and Jeremiah to hide (Jeremiah 36:15-19). The fear indicates the recognition of the seriousness of God's message. 7. King Jehoiakim's Reaction Jehudi reads the scroll to King Jehoiakim, who cuts it with a scribe's knife and throws it into the fire, showing contempt for God's word (Jeremiah 36:20-23). The act of burning the scroll symbolizes rejection and defiance. 8. God Commands Jeremiah to Rewrite the Scroll After the king burns the scroll, the word of the LORD comes to Jeremiah again, instructing him to take another scroll and write all the former words (Jeremiah 36:27-28). This demonstrates the indestructibility and perseverance of God's word. 9. Judgment Pronounced on Jehoiakim God pronounces judgment on Jehoiakim, declaring that he will have no one to sit on the throne of David, and his dead body will be exposed to the elements (Jeremiah 36:29-31). The judgment reflects the consequences of rejecting God's message. 10. Baruch Rewrites the Scroll Baruch writes on another scroll the words of Jeremiah, with many additional words added (Jeremiah 36:32). This final act underscores the continued proclamation of God's word despite opposition. Lessons from Jeremiah 36 1. The Power of God's Word In Jeremiah 36, we see the undeniable power of God's Word. When God instructed Jeremiah to write down all the words He had spoken, it was a testament to the enduring impact of Scripture. "Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you" (Jeremiah 36:2). This reminds us that God's Word is living and active, capable of transforming lives and guiding us in truth. 2. Obedience to God's Commands Jeremiah's obedience in writing down God's words is a powerful lesson in faithfulness. Despite the challenges, he followed God's instructions without hesitation. "So Jeremiah called Baruch son of Neriah, and while Jeremiah dictated all the words the LORD had spoken to him, Baruch wrote them on the scroll" (Jeremiah 36:4). This teaches us the importance of trusting and obeying God's commands, even when the path is difficult. 3. The Role of a Faithful Messenger Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, played a crucial role in delivering God's message. His willingness to serve highlights the importance of being a faithful messenger. "Baruch read from the scroll the words of Jeremiah in the house of the LORD" (Jeremiah 36:10). We are reminded that God can use anyone willing to share His truth with others. 4. The Courage to Speak Truth Delivering God's message requires courage, especially when it challenges the status quo. Baruch and Jeremiah faced significant risks, yet they boldly proclaimed God's Word. "Perhaps they will bring their petition before the LORD, and each one will turn from his wicked ways" (Jeremiah 36:7). This encourages us to speak truth with boldness, trusting God to work through our efforts. 5. The Resistance to God's Word King Jehoiakim's reaction to the scroll is a sobering reminder of how some may resist God's Word. "Whenever Jehudi had read three or four columns, Jehoiakim cut them off with a scribe’s knife and threw them into the fire" (Jeremiah 36:23). Despite this resistance, God's Word remains unchanging and powerful, urging us to remain steadfast in our faith. 6. The Consequences of Disobedience Jehoiakim's actions led to dire consequences, illustrating the dangers of rejecting God's Word. "Therefore, this is what the LORD says about Jehoiakim king of Judah: He will have no one to sit on the throne of David" (Jeremiah 36:30). This serves as a warning that disobedience to God can lead to spiritual and temporal consequences. 7. God's Word Cannot Be Destroyed Despite Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy the scroll, God's Word endured. "Take another scroll and write on it all the words that were on the first scroll" (Jeremiah 36:28). This reassures us that God's Word is indestructible and will accomplish His purposes, no matter the opposition. 8. The Importance of Repentance The hope in Jeremiah 36 lies in the possibility of repentance. "Perhaps they will bring their petition before the LORD, and each one will turn from his wicked ways" (Jeremiah 36:7). This highlights the importance of turning back to God, who is always ready to forgive and restore. 9. God's Sovereignty in All Circumstances Throughout the chapter, we see God's sovereignty at work. Despite human attempts to thwart His plans, God's purposes prevail. "I will punish him, his descendants, and his servants for their iniquity" (Jeremiah 36:31). This assures us that God is in control, orchestrating events according to His divine will. 10. The Eternal Nature of God's Promises Finally, Jeremiah 36 reminds us of the eternal nature of God's promises. His Word is a testament to His faithfulness and love for His people. "Write on it all the words that were on the first scroll" (Jeremiah 36:28). This encourages us to hold fast to God's promises, knowing they are true and everlasting. Topics 1. The Command to Write a Scroll In Jeremiah 36:1-2, God commands Jeremiah to take a scroll and write down all the words He has spoken to him concerning Israel, Judah, and all the nations. This command underscores the importance of preserving God's messages for future generations. The Hebrew word for "write" (כָּתַב, kathab) emphasizes the act of recording divine revelation. 2. Baruch's Role as Scribe Jeremiah 36:4 introduces Baruch, the son of Neriah, who writes down the words of Jeremiah on a scroll as dictated by the prophet. This highlights the collaborative effort in the transmission of God's word, with Baruch serving as a faithful scribe. 3. The Public Reading of the Scroll In verses 5-10, Jeremiah instructs Baruch to read the scroll aloud in the temple on a day of fasting. This public proclamation is intended to reach a wide audience, urging repentance. The Hebrew term for "read" (קָרָא, qara) implies a proclamation meant to be heard and heeded. 4. The Reaction of the Officials Jeremiah 36:11-19 describes the reaction of the officials who hear the words of the scroll. They are alarmed and decide to inform the king, recognizing the gravity of the message. This section illustrates the power of God's word to provoke a response, whether of fear, conviction, or action. 5. Jehoiakim's Destruction of the Scroll In verses 20-26, King Jehoiakim's reaction is one of defiance. He cuts the scroll with a knife and throws it into the fire, demonstrating a blatant rejection of God's message. The Hebrew word for "cut" (תָּרַע, tara) signifies a deliberate act of destruction, symbolizing the king's contempt. 6. The Rewriting of the Scroll Despite the king's actions, God commands Jeremiah to rewrite the scroll with additional words in verses 27-32. This act of rewriting signifies the indestructibility of God's word and His determination to communicate His will. The Hebrew root for "add" (יָסַף, yasaph) indicates the continuation and expansion of divine revelation. Each topic in Jeremiah 36 reflects the themes of divine communication, human response, and the enduring nature of God's word, as seen through a conservative Christian lens. Themes 1. Divine Revelation and Prophecy Jeremiah 36 emphasizes the theme of divine revelation, where God instructs Jeremiah to write down all the words He has spoken to him concerning Israel, Judah, and other nations. This highlights the importance of prophecy as a means of communicating God's will. The Hebrew root for "word" (דָּבָר, ^dabar^) signifies not just spoken words but also the power and authority behind them. The text states, "Take a scroll and write on it all the words I have spoken to you" (Jeremiah 36:2). 2. Human Resistance to God's Word The chapter illustrates human resistance to divine messages. King Jehoiakim's reaction to the scroll, where he cuts it and throws it into the fire, symbolizes the rejection of God's word. This act of defiance is a significant theme, showing the hardness of human hearts against divine instruction. The Hebrew word for "burn" (שָׂרַף, ^saraph^) conveys the idea of consuming or destroying, which is what Jehoiakim attempts to do with God's message (Jeremiah 36:23). 3. The Persistence of God's Word Despite Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy the scroll, God commands Jeremiah to rewrite the words, demonstrating the indestructibility and persistence of His word. This theme underscores the belief that God's word will endure despite human efforts to suppress it. The text states, "Take another scroll and write on it all the words that were on the first scroll" (Jeremiah 36:28). 4. Judgment and Consequences The chapter conveys the theme of judgment and consequences for rejecting God's word. Jehoiakim's actions lead to a pronouncement of judgment against him and his lineage. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew concept of justice (מִשְׁפָּט, ^mishpat^), which involves both the legal and moral order established by God. The text declares, "He will have no one to sit on the throne of David" (Jeremiah 36:30). 5. The Role of the Prophet and Scribe Jeremiah 36 highlights the collaborative roles of the prophet and the scribe in conveying God's message. Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe, plays a crucial role in writing and reading the scroll to the people. This theme emphasizes the importance of faithful transmission of God's word. The Hebrew root for "scribe" (סוֹפֵר, ^sopher^) indicates someone who counts or records, reflecting Baruch's role in preserving the prophecy (Jeremiah 36:4). 6. Repentance and Hope The chapter also touches on the theme of repentance and hope, as God's intention in having the words written is to lead the people to repentance. The potential for forgiveness and restoration is implicit in the call to heed the prophetic message. The Hebrew word for "repent" (שׁוּב, ^shuv^) means to return or turn back, indicating a change of heart and direction (Jeremiah 36:3). Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Word Thank God for the gift of His Word and its enduring power in our lives. Desire for Obedience Pray for a heart that is receptive and obedient to God's Word, even when it challenges us. Courage to Share Ask for boldness and faithfulness in sharing God's Word with others, trusting in its power to transform lives. Protection Against Opposition Pray for strength and perseverance in the face of opposition to God's Word, knowing that His purposes will prevail. Answering Tough Questions 1. How historically verifiable is King Jehoiakim’s scroll-burning incident, and are there extrabiblical sources that confirm or contradict it? (Jeremiah 36:23) 2. If God commanded Jeremiah to write these prophecies, why was there a need for a second scroll after the first was destroyed? (Jeremiah 36:2, 28–32) 3. How credible is Baruch’s ability to reproduce an entire scroll from memory without error, and where is the evidence that any original text survived? (Jeremiah 36:32) 4. Why does Jeremiah 36 focus on burning a scroll instead of tablets or other writing materials, and could this reflect an anachronistic portrayal of ancient record-keeping? (Jeremiah 36:23) 5. How likely is it that Jehoiakim and his officials quickly learned of Jeremiah's prophecies to act swiftly, given the slow communication of the time? (Jeremiah 36:22–24) Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jeremiah 36 illustrate the power of God's Word? 2. In what ways did King Jehoiakim's reaction to the scroll exemplify human rebellion against God? 3. How does God's command to rewrite the scroll highlight the indomitable nature of His Word? 4. How can we relate the idea of burning the scroll to current scenarios where people try to ignore or avoid God's teachings? 5. Why was it significant that God asked Jeremiah to include more detail the second time the scroll was written? 6. How do you react when confronted with a difficult message from God? 7. How does God's response to Jehoiakim's actions reflect His divine justice? 8. How can we ensure that we are open and receptive to God's message today, unlike King Jehoiakim? 9. What lessons can we learn from the contrasting reactions of the officials and the king to God's Word? 10. How does Jeremiah 36 highlight the importance of prophecy in guiding a nation's actions? 11. What can we learn from Baruch's obedience in this chapter? 12. How does Micaiah's reaction differ from Jehoiakim's, and what does it teach us about receiving God's word? 13. How can we apply the message of God's persistent forgiveness in Jeremiah 36 to our lives today? 14. What implications does the episode of Jeremiah 36 have for the modern church and its response to societal disobedience? 15. How does this chapter speak to the consequences of denying or altering God's word in our contemporary context? 16. How does the chapter encourage believers to stand firm in faith, even in the face of adversity or rejection? 17. How does Jeremiah's obedience to God's command inspire you in your personal faith journey? 18. In what ways does Jeremiah 36 illustrate the relationship between repentance and divine forgiveness? 19. How does the chapter address the theme of God's sovereignty over human actions? 20. In today's world, how can we spread God's message effectively, knowing the possibility of rejection, as experienced by Jeremiah and Baruch? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions