How can we apply the diligence shown in Jeremiah 36:20 to our Bible study? Setting the Scene “So they went to the king in the court, but they had deposited the scroll in the chamber of the scribe Elishama, and they reported all the words to the king.” (Jeremiah 36:20) • God’s message, recorded by Jeremiah and written by Baruch, is treated with reverence. • The officials safeguard the scroll, ensure its words reach the proper authority, and keep it intact for future reference. Key Marks of Their Diligence • Reverence―they did not treat the scroll as common parchment. • Preservation―they stored it safely before approaching the king. • Accuracy―they reported “all the words,” not an abridged version. • Urgency coupled with care―swift communication, yet never careless handling. • Accountability―they wanted the king to face God’s revealed truth. Practical Ways to Mirror That Diligence 1. Handle Scripture with Reverence • Set aside uninterrupted time; turn off distractions. • Approach the text believing “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). 2. Preserve Its Integrity • Read passages in full context; resist cherry-picking verses. • Use reliable translations and compare to original-language helps as you grow. 3. Aim for Accurate Understanding • Observe—What does the passage say? • Interpret—What did it mean to the first hearers? • Apply—How does it instruct me today? (cf. Nehemiah 8:8). 4. Combine Urgency with Care • Prioritize daily study (Psalm 1:2). • Yet move slowly enough to meditate (Psalm 119:15). 5. Share the Whole Counsel • Speak Scripture faithfully, even when it confronts (Acts 20:27). • Teach family, friends, and church without omitting hard portions (Matthew 28:20). 6. Store the Word Securely • Memorize passages (Psalm 119:11). • Keep journals or digital notes for future reflection. Supporting Scriptures on Diligent Study • Acts 17:11: “They received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day…” • Proverbs 2:1-5: seek wisdom like hidden treasure. • 2 Timothy 2:15: “Present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” • James 1:22: don’t merely listen—do what it says. Summary Action Steps • Approach your Bible with the same respect the officials showed the scroll. • Protect its message from distortion by reading carefully and contextually. • Pass on every word, not just the comfortable portions. • Let accuracy, urgency, and reverence define your daily study routine. |
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