Understanding Jeremiah 36:20
Jeremiah 36:20 is a verse that captures a significant moment in the life of the prophet Jeremiah and the unfolding events of his ministry. This verse states:
"And they went in to the king into the court; but they laid up the roll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and told all the words of the roll in the ears of the king."
This verse highlights several themes central to our understanding of Scripture as well as the prophetic mission of Jeremiah. Below, we explore several key insights derived from public domain commentaries.
Summary of Key Insights
- Exposure to God's Word: The act of reading the scroll to the king emphasizes the need for exposure to divine revelation. The word of God, delivered through Jeremiah, had authoritative power and must be conveyed to those in positions of influence.
- Obedience to Divine Instruction: Jeremiah's roll (or scroll) represents God's direct message to His people, which the king must be made aware of. This underscores the importance of communicating God's will, even when it may be uncomfortable for those in leadership.
- Challenges of Political Authority: The verse illustrates the tension between prophecy and political authority. The king's reaction to the message conveyed will reveal the heart's response to God’s will.
- Role of Scribes and Chroniclers: The mention of Elishama the scribe highlights the importance of record-keeping in the ancient Israelite society. It shows how God’s words were preserved and passed down for future generations, emphasizing the significance of scripture documentation.
- Public Accountability: This moment of publicly presenting the words of the scroll to the king serves as a critical reminder that scripture is not merely for private study but is to be shared, encouraging accountability among leaders.
Bible Verse Meanings and Interpretations
The insights from commentaries by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke help illuminate the deeper meanings of this verse:
Matthew Henry's Commentary
According to Henry, this verse highlights the actions of Jeremiah's disciples in ensuring that the king received the message of God despite the potential danger involved. They demonstrate faithfulness to their calling to speak truth to power.
Albert Barnes' Commentary
Barnes emphasizes that the king’s counselors played a crucial role in the dissemination of Jeremiah’s message. Their willingness to carry the scroll signifies the acknowledgment of the prophet's authority and reminds us of the importance of wise counsel when interpreting scripture.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Clarke notes the secretive approach of laying up the roll, suggesting a cautious approach to dealing with a volatile political environment. This acts as a metaphor for how believers must sometimes share God's word with prudence and discretion.
Application of Jeremiah 36:20
This passage calls upon readers to reflect on their own responses to God’s word and how it is shared in society:
- Personal Reflection: Are we open to receiving God’s messages through scripture and willing to act on them?
- Sharing Truth: How can we faithfully share God’s word with others, especially those in authority?
- Documenting God’s Work: In what ways can we preserve and record the messages that God has given us for future generations?
Related Bible Cross References
- Jeremiah 1:7-9: God empowers Jeremiah to speak on His behalf.
- Jeremiah 36:21-23: The king's reaction to the reading of the scroll.
- Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7): Jesus’ teachings challenge earthly authority.
- Isaiah 55:11: The effectiveness of God's word when spoken.
- Acts 5:29: The apostles’ commitment to obey God rather than men.
Conclusion
Jeremiah 36:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prophetic voice and the necessity of delivering God's message to those in power. It encourages Bible study groups and individual readers to engage deeply with the scriptures, fostering an understanding rooted in faithfulness, accountability, and courage in sharing the truth of God's word.
