In what ways can we ensure we respect God's word like in Jeremiah 36:20? Setting the Scene Jeremiah’s scroll had been heard privately by the officials. Verse 20 records the next step: “So they went to the king in the courtyard, and they had deposited the scroll in the chamber of Elishama the scribe, and they reported all the words in the king’s hearing.” (Jeremiah 36:20) Key Observations from Jeremiah 36:20 • The scroll is placed in a safe chamber, not discarded. • The officials ensure the message reaches the highest authority. • The words are reported accurately, without alteration. Practical Ways to Show Reverence for Scripture • Safeguard the Word – Keep personal and congregational copies in good condition. – Preserve faithful translations and reliable teaching. (Psalm 119:152) • Give the Word a Hearing – Set regular, focused times for public and private reading. (1 Timothy 4:13) – Silence distractions so Scripture can speak clearly. • Elevate Scripture Publicly – Read passages aloud in worship, small groups, and family settings. – Display verses visibly in homes and communities. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9) • Approach with Humble Submission – Receive every passage as God’s authoritative voice. (Isaiah 66:2b) – Refuse to edit, dilute, or ignore uncomfortable truths. • Respond with Obedience – Move from hearing to doing. (James 1:22) – Align decisions, speech, and conduct with what God has said. Support from Other Scriptures • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—All Scripture is God-breathed and equips for every good work. • Psalm 119:11—I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You. • Joshua 1:8—Meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Living It Out Today 1. Store: keep Bibles readily accessible; back up digital copies; protect from neglect. 2. Share: read aloud at meals, text verses to friends, post Scripture online. 3. Study: schedule uninterrupted time, use sound study tools, memorize key passages. 4. Submit: let Scripture overrule cultural trends and personal preferences. 5. Serve: act on what you learn—encourage, forgive, give, and proclaim the gospel. By safeguarding, hearing, honoring, submitting to, and obeying God’s Word—just as the officials initially treated Jeremiah’s scroll—believers today demonstrate true respect for Scripture and for the God who breathed it. |
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