Jeremiah 36:14

Then 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.

Study Bible

Then all the officials sent word to Baruch through Jehudi son of Nethaniah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Cushi, saying,
This phrase highlights the involvement of the officials in the events surrounding Jeremiah's prophecies. The officials, likely part of the king's administration, demonstrate the seriousness with which the message is being taken. Jehudi, a messenger with a detailed lineage, indicates the importance of family heritage and status in ancient Judah. The mention of Jehudi's ancestry underscores the credibility and authority of the message being delivered. This reflects the structured hierarchy within the royal court and the formal processes in place for communication.

“Bring the scroll that you read in the hearing of the people, and come here.”
The scroll refers to the written prophecies of Jeremiah, which Baruch had read publicly. This public reading signifies the transparency and urgency of God's message to the people of Judah. The officials' request to bring the scroll indicates their desire to verify and understand the content directly, showing a level of accountability and responsibility. This act of reading aloud is reminiscent of other instances in Scripture where God's word is proclaimed publicly, such as in Nehemiah 8:1-8, emphasizing the power and authority of the written word.

So Baruch son of Neriah took the scroll and went to them.
Baruch, as Jeremiah's scribe, plays a crucial role in the dissemination of the prophetic message. His obedience in taking the scroll to the officials demonstrates his faithfulness and dedication to his task. Baruch's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who faithfully delivers God's message to humanity. The movement of the scroll from public reading to the officials' presence signifies the transition of God's word from general proclamation to specific examination by those in authority, highlighting the accountability of leaders to heed divine warnings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehudi
A messenger sent by the officials to retrieve Baruch and the scroll. His lineage is noted, indicating his role and possibly his credibility or authority.

2. Baruch
The scribe of Jeremiah, who wrote down the words of the prophet as dictated to him. He plays a crucial role in delivering God's message to the people.

3. Officials
These are the leaders or authorities in Jerusalem who are interested in hearing the words written by Baruch. Their involvement indicates the seriousness of the message.

4. Scroll
The physical document containing the words of Jeremiah as dictated to Baruch. It represents the written word of God and the means by which His message is communicated.

5. Jerusalem
The setting of this event, where the political and religious leaders are gathered. It is significant as the center of Jewish life and worship.

Teaching Points

The Importance of God's Word
The officials' request to hear the scroll underscores the significance of God's word. We should prioritize reading and understanding Scripture in our lives.

Role of Messengers
Just as Jehudi and Baruch were instrumental in delivering God's message, we are called to be messengers of His word today.

Response to God's Message
The officials' interest in the scroll prompts us to consider our own response to God's word. Are we eager to hear and apply it?

The Power of Written Scripture
The scroll represents the enduring nature of God's word. We should value and preserve the Scriptures as a vital part of our faith.

Community Engagement with Scripture
The gathering of officials to hear the scroll highlights the importance of communal study and discussion of God's word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the involvement of the officials in Jeremiah 36:14 teach us about the importance of leadership in spiritual matters?

2. How can we, like Baruch, faithfully serve as scribes or messengers of God's word in our own contexts?

3. In what ways does the account of the scroll in Jeremiah 36 parallel the discovery of the Book of the Law in 2 Kings 22, and what can we learn from these events?

4. How does the eagerness of the officials to hear the scroll challenge our own attitudes towards engaging with Scripture?

5. Reflect on a time when you have been part of a community study of Scripture. How did it impact your understanding and application of God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 36:1-3
Provides context for why the scroll was written, emphasizing God's desire for repentance.

2 Kings 22:8-11
Similar event where a scroll is found and read, leading to a significant response from the king.

Acts 8:30-31
Philip explains the Scriptures to the Ethiopian eunuch, highlighting the importance of understanding God's word.

Revelation 1:3
The blessing of reading and hearing the words of prophecy, underscoring the importance of engaging with Scripture.