Jeremiah 36:23

And as soon as Jehudi had read three or four columns, Jehoiakim would cut them off with a scribe's knife and throw them into the firepot, until the entire scroll had been consumed by the fire.

Study Bible

And as soon as Jehudi had read three or four columns
This phrase highlights the role of Jehudi, a court official, in reading the scroll. The scroll likely contained the words of Jeremiah, dictated to Baruch, as a warning to King Jehoiakim and the people of Judah. The columns refer to sections of the scroll, which were read aloud in the presence of the king. This act of reading signifies the delivery of God's message, emphasizing the importance of hearing and responding to divine warnings. The number "three or four" suggests a partial reading, indicating that the king did not allow the full message to be heard.

Jehoiakim would cut them off with a scribe’s knife
King Jehoiakim's action of cutting the scroll with a scribe's knife is symbolic of his rejection of God's word. The scribe's knife, typically used for preparing and maintaining writing materials, becomes an instrument of destruction. This act of cutting signifies a deliberate and contemptuous rejection of the prophetic message. Jehoiakim's response contrasts with the expected reverence for sacred texts, highlighting his defiance against God's authority.

and throw them into the firepot
The firepot, used for warmth in the winter, becomes the means of destroying the scroll. This act of burning the scroll represents an attempt to obliterate the message and silence the prophet. In biblical times, fire often symbolizes judgment and purification, but here it is used to demonstrate the king's disdain for divine instruction. The destruction of the scroll is a futile attempt to negate God's word, which cannot be extinguished by human actions.

until the entire scroll had been consumed by the fire
The complete consumption of the scroll by fire signifies the total rejection of God's message by Jehoiakim. This act of destruction is not only a personal affront to Jeremiah and Baruch but also an affront to God Himself. The historical context reveals the king's disregard for prophetic warnings, which ultimately leads to the downfall of Judah. This event foreshadows the coming judgment and exile, as prophesied by Jeremiah. The indestructibility of God's word is later affirmed when Jeremiah is instructed to rewrite the scroll, demonstrating that divine truth endures despite human opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah during this time, known for his rebellion against God's word and his disregard for the prophetic messages delivered by Jeremiah.

3. Baruch
Jeremiah's scribe, who wrote down the words of the prophecy as dictated by Jeremiah and read them to the people and officials.

4. Jehudi
A court official who read the scroll to King Jehoiakim, acting as a messenger of the prophetic word.

5. The Scroll
The written record of Jeremiah's prophecies, which was meant to be a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of their actions.

Teaching Points

The Rejection of God's Word
Jehoiakim's act of cutting and burning the scroll symbolizes a deliberate rejection of God's message. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to divine instruction.

The Indestructibility of God's Word
Despite Jehoiakim's actions, God's word remains unbroken and continues to fulfill its purpose. This teaches us about the eternal and unchanging nature of Scripture.

The Role of the Messenger
Jehudi and Baruch played crucial roles in delivering God's message. This highlights the importance of being faithful messengers of God's truth, regardless of the audience's response.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's actions led to further judgment upon Judah. This serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of ignoring God's warnings and commands.

The Call to Repentance
Unlike Jehoiakim, we are called to respond to God's word with humility and repentance, aligning our lives with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoiakim's response to the scroll reflect the condition of his heart, and what can we learn from this about our own responses to God's word?

2. In what ways does the account of Jehoiakim contrast with the response of King Josiah to the reading of the Law? How can this contrast inform our approach to Scripture?

3. How does the indestructibility of God's word, as seen in this passage, encourage us in our faith today?

4. What role do Baruch and Jehudi play in the dissemination of God's message, and how can we apply their example in our own lives as messengers of the Gospel?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced resistance or rejection when sharing God's word. How does this passage encourage you to remain faithful in your witness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22-23
The account of King Josiah, Jehoiakim's father, who responded to the reading of the Law with repentance and reform, contrasting Jehoiakim's response.

Hebrews 4:12
Highlights the power and living nature of God's word, contrasting with Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy it physically.

Isaiah 40:8
Emphasizes the enduring nature of God's word, which stands forever despite human attempts to suppress it.