Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, there are several instances where God commands His people to record events, words, or laws. These commands underscore the importance of preserving divine revelation and historical acts of God for future generations. The act of recording serves as a means of remembrance, instruction, and testimony to God's faithfulness and sovereignty.Exodus 17:14 One of the earliest instances of this command is found in Exodus 17:14, following the Israelites' victory over the Amalekites. The LORD instructs Moses: "Write this on a scroll as a reminder and recite it to Joshua, because I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven." This command highlights the importance of documenting God's deliverance and serves as a prophetic declaration of His judgment against Amalek. Deuteronomy 31:19 In Deuteronomy 31:19, God commands Moses to write down a song: "Now therefore, write down for yourselves this song and teach it to the Israelites. Have them recite it, so that it may be a witness for Me against the Israelites." The song serves as a witness to the covenant between God and Israel, reminding the people of their obligations and the consequences of disobedience. Isaiah 30:8 The prophet Isaiah receives a similar command in Isaiah 30:8: "Go now, write it on a tablet for them, inscribe it on a scroll, that for the days to come it may be an everlasting witness." This instruction emphasizes the enduring nature of God's word and the necessity of recording prophetic messages for future generations. Jeremiah 30:2 In Jeremiah 30:2, the LORD commands the prophet: "Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel: 'Write in a book all the words that I have spoken to you.'" This directive ensures that the prophecies concerning Israel's restoration and the coming of the Messiah are preserved. Habakkuk 2:2 The LORD's instruction to Habakkuk in Habakkuk 2:2 further illustrates the importance of recording divine revelation: "Then the LORD answered me: 'Write down this vision and clearly inscribe it on tablets, so that a herald may run with it.'" The clarity and permanence of the written word are emphasized, ensuring that the message is communicated effectively. Revelation 1:11 In the New Testament, the apostle John receives a command to write in Revelation 1:11: "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches..." This command underscores the significance of documenting the visions and messages given to John for the edification and guidance of the early church. The LORD's command to record events and revelations is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, reflecting the divine intention to preserve His word and works for all generations. These records serve as a testament to God's interaction with humanity, His covenantal promises, and His ultimate plan of redemption. |