Jeremiah 36:21

Then the king sent Jehudi to get the scroll, and he took it from the chamber of Elishama the scribe. And Jehudi read it in the hearing of the king and all the officials who were standing beside him.

Study Bible

The king sent Jehudi to get the scroll
This phrase highlights the authority and command of the king, likely King Jehoiakim, who reigned over Judah. The act of sending Jehudi indicates the king's interest or concern about the contents of the scroll. Historically, kings often had scribes or officials to carry out their orders, reflecting a structured hierarchy. The scroll represents the word of God delivered through Jeremiah, emphasizing the divine message's importance and the king's responsibility to heed it.

and he took it from the chamber of Elishama the scribe
Elishama the scribe's chamber signifies a place of record-keeping and administration. Scribes were crucial in ancient times for documenting and preserving important texts. The mention of Elishama suggests a historical figure responsible for maintaining the scrolls, indicating the organized preservation of prophetic messages. This setting underscores the sacredness and authenticity of the scroll, as it was kept in a place of official record.

And Jehudi read it in the hearing of the king and all the officials who were standing beside him
The act of reading the scroll aloud signifies the public proclamation of God's word. Jehudi's role as the reader highlights the importance of intermediaries in communicating divine messages. The presence of the king and officials indicates a formal and significant occasion, where the word of God is presented to the nation's leaders. This setting reflects the accountability of leaders to God's commands and the potential consequences of their response. The phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of receiving God's word, as it is not only for the king but for all who govern with him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. King Jehoiakim
The king of Judah during this time, known for his disobedience to God and disregard for prophetic messages.

2. Jehudi
A servant of the king tasked with retrieving and reading the scroll.

3. Elishama the Scribe
The scribe whose chamber housed the scroll, indicating his role in recording and preserving important documents.

4. The Scroll
A written document containing the words of the prophet Jeremiah, dictated to Baruch, warning of impending judgment.

5. The Officials
The group of leaders and advisors present with King Jehoiakim, representing the political and spiritual leadership of Judah.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Reverence for God's Word
Jehoiakim's actions demonstrate a lack of respect for God's message. We must approach Scripture with reverence and a willingness to listen and obey.

The Role of God's Messengers
Just as Jeremiah and Baruch faithfully delivered God's message, we are called to share God's truth, regardless of the response we receive.

The Consequences of Ignoring God's Warnings
Jehoiakim's disregard for the scroll led to dire consequences for Judah. Ignoring God's warnings in our lives can lead to spiritual and practical repercussions.

The Power of God's Word to Transform
While Jehoiakim rejected the scroll, God's word has the power to transform hearts and lives when received with humility and faith.

The Responsibility of Leaders
The officials' presence highlights the responsibility of leaders to heed God's word and guide others in truth and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does King Jehoiakim's response to the scroll reflect our own attitudes toward God's word in challenging situations?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not only hearers of the word but doers, as emphasized in James 1:22?

3. How can the contrasting responses of King Josiah and King Jehoiakim to God's word inform our approach to Scripture today?

4. What role do you see for yourself in sharing God's message with others, and how can you prepare for both acceptance and rejection?

5. How can we cultivate a heart like the Bereans, eager to receive and examine the Scriptures daily, in our personal Bible study practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22
The discovery of the Book of the Law during King Josiah's reign, which led to national repentance, contrasts with Jehoiakim's response to Jeremiah's scroll.

Jeremiah 25
Provides context for the warnings in the scroll, detailing the coming judgment on Judah and the surrounding nations.

Hebrews 4:12
Highlights the power of God's word, which is living and active, contrasting with Jehoiakim's dismissive attitude.

2 Timothy 3:16-17
Emphasizes the importance of all Scripture for teaching and correction, relevant to the rejection of Jeremiah's message.

Acts 17:11
The Bereans' noble character in receiving the word with eagerness and examining the Scriptures daily, contrasting with Jehoiakim's rejection.