The command to Jeremiah is a significant event in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, marking the divine commissioning of Jeremiah as a prophet to the nations. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Jeremiah, specifically in the first chapter, where God calls and appoints Jeremiah to his prophetic ministry.

Background and Context

Jeremiah, the son of Hilkiah, was a priest from Anathoth in the land of Benjamin. His prophetic ministry began during the thirteenth year of King Josiah's reign and continued through the reigns of several kings of Judah, including Jehoiakim and Zedekiah, until the Babylonian exile. The historical context of Jeremiah's ministry was a tumultuous period for Judah, characterized by political instability, idolatry, and impending judgment from God due to the nation's persistent disobedience.

The Divine Call

The call of Jeremiah is a profound moment that underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing His prophets. In Jeremiah 1:4-5 , the Lord declares:

"Now the word of the LORD came to me, saying: 'Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.'"

This passage highlights the preordained nature of Jeremiah's calling, emphasizing that God had a specific purpose for him even before his birth. The divine foreknowledge and election are central themes, illustrating that Jeremiah's role was part of God's sovereign plan.

Jeremiah's Reluctance and God's Assurance

Jeremiah initially expresses reluctance and inadequacy, citing his youth and inexperience. In Jeremiah 1:6 , he responds:

"Ah, Lord GOD, I said, 'I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!'"

God's response to Jeremiah's hesitation is both reassuring and empowering. In verses 7-8 , the Lord commands:

"Do not say, 'I am only a child,' for to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the LORD."

Here, God promises His presence and protection, assuring Jeremiah that his success does not depend on his own abilities but on God's power and guidance.

The Symbolic Act of Touching Jeremiah's Mouth

In a symbolic act of consecration, God touches Jeremiah's mouth, signifying the divine words that Jeremiah is to speak. Jeremiah 1:9 states:

"Then the LORD reached out His hand, touched my mouth, and said to me: 'Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.'"

This act signifies the divine authority and inspiration behind Jeremiah's prophetic messages, affirming that he speaks not on his own behalf but as God's mouthpiece.

The Scope of Jeremiah's Mission

God outlines the scope and nature of Jeremiah's mission in Jeremiah 1:10 :

"See, I have appointed you today over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant."

This verse encapsulates the dual nature of Jeremiah's prophetic ministry: one of judgment and destruction due to the people's sin, and one of hope and restoration for the future. Jeremiah's messages would challenge the status quo, confront sin, and ultimately point to God's redemptive purposes.

Conclusion

The command to Jeremiah is a foundational moment in biblical prophecy, illustrating the divine initiative in calling and equipping His servants. Jeremiah's life and ministry serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and the power of His word, even amidst human frailty and opposition.