Jeremiah 18:1

This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD:

Study Bible

This is the word
The phrase "This is the word" signifies a divine communication, a message that is not of human origin but from God Himself. In Hebrew, the term for "word" is "dabar," which implies not just a spoken word but an active, dynamic force. It is a reminder that God's word is living and powerful, as seen throughout Scripture. The "word" of God is foundational, as it was through His word that the universe was created (Genesis 1). This phrase sets the stage for the authority and importance of the message that follows.

that came
The phrase "that came" indicates the movement of God's word from the divine realm to the human realm. In Hebrew, the verb "came" is "hayah," which can also mean "to happen" or "to become." This suggests that the word of God is not static but is an event, an occurrence that brings about change. It emphasizes the active role of God in history, intervening and communicating with His people. This divine initiative underscores the grace of God in reaching out to humanity.

to Jeremiah
"To Jeremiah" identifies the recipient of God's word. Jeremiah, whose name means "Yahweh exalts" or "appointed by Yahweh," was a prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. His role as a prophet was both a privilege and a burden, as he often faced opposition and persecution. Jeremiah's life and ministry remind us of the cost of obedience and the courage required to speak God's truth in a resistant world. His faithfulness serves as an example for believers to stand firm in their calling.

from the LORD
The phrase "from the LORD" confirms the divine origin of the message. The term "LORD" in all capital letters represents the Hebrew name "YHWH," often pronounced as "Yahweh." This is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises. It is a reminder of God's personal relationship with His people and His sovereignty over all creation. The use of "LORD" here assures the reader of the reliability and authority of the message, as it comes from the One who is unchanging and true.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance and faithfulness amidst persecution and rejection.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who communicates His will and purposes to His people through His prophets.

3. The Word of the LORD
Represents God's direct communication and revelation to His chosen messenger, Jeremiah, emphasizing the divine origin and authority of the message.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
God's word to Jeremiah underscores the authority and reliability of divine revelation. As believers, we are called to trust and obey God's word as the ultimate guide for our lives.

The Role of the Prophet
Jeremiah's role as a prophet reminds us of the importance of being faithful messengers of God's truth, even when faced with opposition or indifference.

God's Personal Communication
The personal nature of God's communication with Jeremiah encourages us to seek a personal relationship with God, where we are attentive to His voice through prayer and Scripture.

The Consistency of God's Message
The continuity of God's message through different prophets highlights His unchanging nature and the consistency of His purposes throughout history.

Responding to God's Call
Just as Jeremiah responded to God's call, we are challenged to be open and responsive to God's leading in our own lives, ready to fulfill His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of a prophet like Jeremiah help us appreciate the authority of Scripture today?

2. In what ways can we discern and respond to God's personal communication in our daily lives?

3. How does the consistency of God's message through different prophets encourage us in our faith journey?

4. What challenges might we face when delivering God's truth in today's world, and how can we overcome them?

5. How can we ensure that we are faithfully responding to God's call and purpose for our lives, as Jeremiah did?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 6
Similar to Jeremiah's calling, Isaiah receives a vision and a message from the Lord, highlighting the role of prophets as God's messengers.

Ezekiel 1
Ezekiel's calling and vision parallel Jeremiah's experience, showing the consistency of God's communication with His prophets.

Hebrews 1:1-2
This passage speaks of God speaking through the prophets in the past, and now through His Son, Jesus Christ, establishing continuity in divine revelation.