Jeremiah 36:26

Instead, the king commanded Jerahmeel, a son of the king, as well as Seraiah son of Azriel and Shelemiah son of Abdeel, to seize Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet. But the LORD had hidden them.

Study Bible

Instead, the king commanded Jerahmeel, a son of the king
This phrase highlights the authority and influence of the king, likely Jehoiakim, who was ruling Judah at the time. Jerahmeel, being a son of the king, indicates a position of power and trust. The use of royal family members for such tasks underscores the seriousness with which the king viewed the situation. Historically, Jehoiakim was known for his opposition to Jeremiah's prophecies, which often condemned the king's actions and foretold the destruction of Jerusalem.

as well as Seraiah son of Azriel and Shelemiah son of Abdeel
These individuals were likely officials or trusted servants of the king, tasked with carrying out his orders. The mention of their fathers' names suggests a practice of identifying individuals by their lineage, which was common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. This practice provided legitimacy and recognition within the community. The involvement of multiple officials indicates the importance of the mission to capture Baruch and Jeremiah.

to seize Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet
Baruch, as Jeremiah's scribe, played a crucial role in documenting the prophecies and messages from God. His partnership with Jeremiah was significant in ensuring the preservation and dissemination of God's word. Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was often persecuted for his messages, which called for repentance and warned of impending judgment. The attempt to seize them reflects the king's desire to suppress these prophetic messages, which were seen as a threat to his rule.

But the LORD had hidden them
This phrase emphasizes divine intervention and protection. Throughout the Bible, God often protects His messengers to ensure the continuation of His plans and purposes. This act of hiding Baruch and Jeremiah can be seen as a fulfillment of God's promise to protect His servants, as seen in other scriptures like Psalm 91:1-2. It also highlights the futility of human efforts against God's sovereign will, a recurring theme in biblical narratives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is central to the events of this chapter as he dictates God's words to Baruch.

2. Baruch
The scribe who writes down the words of Jeremiah on a scroll. He plays a crucial role in delivering God's message to the people and the king.

3. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah during this time. He is known for his rejection of God's word, as demonstrated by his actions in this chapter.

4. Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah
Officials sent by the king to arrest Baruch and Jeremiah. Their involvement highlights the opposition to God's message.

5. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, where these events take place. The spiritual state of Judah is a central concern of Jeremiah's prophecies.

Teaching Points

The Rejection of God's Word
Jehoiakim's actions serve as a warning against dismissing God's message. His attempt to silence the prophetic word by burning the scroll demonstrates a hardened heart.

The Courage to Proclaim Truth
Baruch's willingness to write and read the scroll despite the danger exemplifies the courage needed to stand for God's truth in the face of opposition.

God's Sovereignty and Protection
Despite the king's efforts to arrest Jeremiah and Baruch, God protects His servants, showing His sovereignty over human affairs.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's rejection of the scroll leads to dire consequences for him and his kingdom, illustrating the importance of heeding God's warnings.

The Enduring Nature of God's Word
The attempt to destroy the scroll fails to nullify God's message, emphasizing the enduring and indestructible nature of His word.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways can we demonstrate the same courage as Baruch when faced with opposition to sharing God's truth?

3. How does the protection of Jeremiah and Baruch by God encourage us in our own walk of faith, especially when facing challenges?

4. What are some modern-day examples of attempts to "burn the scroll," and how can we respond to such actions?

5. How does the account of Jehoiakim and the scroll connect with the broader biblical theme of the enduring power of God's word, as seen in other scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22-23
The account of King Josiah, who responded to the reading of the Law with repentance and reform, contrasts with Jehoiakim's rejection of God's word.

Acts 4:1-22
The apostles face opposition for preaching the gospel, similar to Jeremiah and Baruch's experience. This connection highlights the recurring theme of resistance to God's message.

Hebrews 4:12
This verse speaks to the power of God's word, which is evident in the transformative potential of the scroll that Jehoiakim rejects.