Jeremiah 36:19

Then the officials said to Baruch, "You and Jeremiah must hide yourselves and tell no one where you are."

Study Bible

Then the officials said to Baruch
In the context of Jeremiah 36, Baruch is the scribe and faithful companion of the prophet Jeremiah. The officials here refer to the Judean leaders who were part of King Jehoiakim's court. These officials were aware of the political and religious implications of Jeremiah's prophecies, which often called for repentance and warned of impending judgment. Their decision to speak to Baruch indicates their recognition of the seriousness of the message he had delivered on behalf of Jeremiah.

“You and Jeremiah must hide yourselves
The command to hide reflects the dangerous political climate in Jerusalem at the time. Jeremiah's prophecies were not well-received by the ruling authorities, as they often predicted the downfall of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile. The officials' advice to hide suggests that they understood the threat posed by King Jehoiakim, who had previously shown hostility towards Jeremiah's messages. This situation highlights the tension between God's prophets and the political powers of the day, a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

and tell no one where you are.”
This instruction underscores the need for secrecy and protection. The officials likely feared that if Jeremiah and Baruch were found, they would face severe punishment or even death. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's protection over His messengers, as seen in other instances where prophets were shielded from harm (e.g., Elijah in 1 Kings 19). The need for secrecy also emphasizes the gravity of the prophetic message and the lengths to which God's servants must sometimes go to ensure its preservation and delivery.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the people of Judah. His ministry was marked by persecution and rejection.

2. Baruch
The scribe and faithful companion of Jeremiah, who wrote down the words of the prophet as dictated by him. He played a crucial role in disseminating Jeremiah's messages.

3. The Officials
These were the leaders or princes of Judah who, upon hearing the words of the scroll, recognized the potential danger and advised Jeremiah and Baruch to hide.

4. The Scroll
A written document containing the words of prophecy given by God to Jeremiah, which Baruch read aloud to the people and officials.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing imminent judgment and destruction due to their persistent disobedience to God.

Teaching Points

The Power of God's Word
God's word, as delivered through Jeremiah and written by Baruch, holds transformative power and authority. It demands a response, whether of repentance or rejection.

Courage in the Face of Opposition
Jeremiah and Baruch exemplify courage and faithfulness in delivering God's message despite the threat of persecution. Believers today are called to stand firm in their faith, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

The Role of Godly Counsel
The officials' advice to hide reflects the importance of seeking and heeding wise counsel in times of danger. God often uses others to provide protection and guidance.

Divine Protection and Providence
The need for Jeremiah and Baruch to hide underscores God's providential care for His servants. Trusting in God's protection is essential when facing trials.

The Importance of Obedience
Despite the risks, Jeremiah and Baruch's obedience to God's command to deliver His message is a powerful example of faithfulness. Obedience to God should be prioritized over fear of man.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of the officials in Jeremiah 36:19 demonstrate the impact of God's word on those who hear it? Reflect on a time when God's word has impacted you or someone you know.

2. In what ways can we draw courage from Jeremiah and Baruch's example when facing opposition for our faith today? Consider parallels in the New Testament.

3. How does the advice of the officials to hide relate to the concept of seeking godly counsel in our lives? Can you think of a situation where you benefited from such counsel?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's protection over His servants? How can we apply this understanding to our current circumstances?

5. Reflect on the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when it involves personal risk. How can we cultivate a heart of obedience in our daily walk with God? Consider connections to other biblical figures who demonstrated obedience.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1
This chapter provides the background of Jeremiah's calling and mission, emphasizing his role as a prophet to the nations.

2 Kings 22
The account of King Josiah's reforms after the discovery of the Book of the Law, highlighting the power of God's written word to bring about repentance and change.

Acts 5
The apostles are commanded to stop preaching in Jesus' name, yet they continue boldly, similar to Jeremiah and Baruch's commitment to God's message despite opposition.