Jeremiah-36
Rolling the Scroll: A Devotional Study on Jeremiah 36
Introduction
The prophet Jeremiah experienced significant resistance for his message from God. Faced with opposition, he wrote a message on a scroll and asked his colleague Baruch to read it to the people. Jeremiah 36 chronicles this crucial moment in Jeremiah's ministry. As we dive into this chapter, let's explore the profound truths and spiritual insights hidden between the lines.
Section 1: God's Message to Judah (Jeremiah 36:1-3)
Devotional Thought: God commissioned Jeremiah to proclaim a message of judgment and repentance to the people of Judah. Despite the weightiness of his message, God assured Jeremiah of its importance: "Perhaps the house of Judah will hear all the evil that I intend to do to them, that they may return" (Jeremiah 36:3 ESV). Are we attentive to God's messages to us, even when they are difficult to hear? Are we avid hearers of God's words, ready to heed His counsel for our salvation?
Reflection Questions:
- How do you respond to messages that challenge your comfort or disrupt your status quo?
- Are you a listener, open to hearing God's Word, even when it's uncomfortable?
Section 2: Baruch's Role (Jeremiah 36:4-10)
Devotional Thought: Baruch's role in preserving God's message should not be overlooked. He listened attentively, wrote with care, and obeyed God's instruction: "I will roll this scroll that you have written upon a roll" (Jeremiah 36:24 ESV). Consider the significance of faithful stewards in preserving God's messages. Are there people in our lives who play this role for us?
Reflection Questions:
- Who are the "Baruchs" in your life, carefully preserving and transmitting God's Word?
- How can we be faithful in our role as God's messengers, preserving His message for future generations?
Section 3: Resistance to God's Message (Jeremiah 36:11-21)
Devotional Thought: The king's officials challenged Baruch's faithfulness, warning him of the potential danger in disclosing God's message to the king. They responded, "This man ought to be put to death, because he has weakened the hands of the men of war who are this day added to the people" (Jeremiah 36:26 ESV). This challenge of faithfulness mirrors personal challenges in our lives when we stand firm in our faith or defend God's truth. Trust God's faithfulness to equip and strengthen us.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you experienced pushback in your faith journey? If so, how did you respond?
- How does God's faithfulness equip and strengthen us in maintaining our faithfulness?
Conclusion:
As we close our devotional journey through Jeremiah 36, let's stand in faithful obedience to God's Word, even when it's difficult. We should view challenging circumstances with an attentive ear, appreciating the role of faithful stewards, and defending God's message of truth. May we be Baruchs, who attentively, faithfully, and courageously convey God's message, preserving it for others.