What is the significance of "the word of the LORD came to me"? Setting the Scene “The word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Jeremiah 1:4). Though Jeremiah 1:4 is a familiar example, the same wording appears scores of times from Genesis to Zechariah. Each occurrence carries a consistent weight that anchors our confidence in Scripture. What “the word of the LORD” Means • Divine origin: not human insight, guesswork, or folklore. • Unbreakable authority: “Every word of God is flawless” (Proverbs 30:5). • Self-attesting power: “So is My word that goes out from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:11). • Creative force: “By the word of the LORD the heavens were made” (Psalm 33:6). Why “Came to Me” Matters • Personal encounter—God initiates; the prophet receives. Compare 1 Samuel 3:1–4, where young Samuel hears the voice at night. • Historical anchoring—real moments in real places: “In the thirtieth year… the word of the LORD came expressly to Ezekiel” (Ezekiel 1:3). • Prophetic commissioning—the phrase usually stands at the front end of a mission (Jonah 1:1; Zechariah 1:1). • Responsibility—when God’s word “comes,” the hearer must speak (Jeremiah 20:9). Implications for the Prophet • Clarity—no ambiguity about message source. • Courage—backed by divine authority (Jeremiah 1:7–8). • Accountability—silencing or altering the word invites judgment (Jeremiah 26:2). Broader Biblical Pattern 1. Old-Testament prophets: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Joel, Amos—the phrase punctuates their books. 2. New-Testament continuity: “Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). 3. Final revelation in Christ: “In these last days He has spoken to us by His Son” (Hebrews 1:1–2). Reassurance for Believers Today • Same God, same voice—Scripture remains His living word (Hebrews 4:12). • Foundation for trust—if He spoke then, He speaks reliably through the written text now. • Call to obedience—hearing demands doing (James 1:22). Key Takeaways • “The word of the LORD” declares divine authorship. • “Came to me” highlights God’s initiative and the prophet’s duty. • The phrase underscores Scripture’s accuracy, authority, and contemporary relevance. |
    |