Jeremiah 36:23

And as soon as Jehudi had read three or four columns, Jehoiakim would cut them off with a scribe's knife and throw them into the firepot, until the entire scroll had been consumed by the fire.

Study Bible

Whenever Jehudi had read three or four columns
This phrase introduces us to the scene where Jehudi, a scribe, is reading the scroll containing the words of Jeremiah. The act of reading "three or four columns" suggests a deliberate and methodical approach to the reading of the scroll. In the Hebrew context, scrolls were written in columns, and the reading of them was a significant act, often done publicly. This highlights the importance of the message being conveyed. The number "three or four" may symbolize completeness or a sufficient amount to understand the message, indicating that enough of the scroll was read to grasp its serious implications.

the king cut them off with a scribe’s knife
The action of the king cutting the scroll with a "scribe’s knife" is symbolic of his rejection and disdain for the prophetic message. The scribe's knife, typically used for precise and careful work, is here used destructively, indicating a perversion of its intended purpose. This act of cutting the scroll can be seen as a metaphor for the king's attempt to cut off God's word and authority. Historically, this reflects the resistance of the leadership in Judah to the prophetic warnings, showcasing a hardened heart and a refusal to repent.

and threw them into the firepot
The act of throwing the scroll into the "firepot" signifies a complete rejection and destruction of the message. Fire, in biblical terms, often represents judgment and purification. However, in this context, it is used to obliterate the divine message, symbolizing the king's attempt to erase God's word and its influence. This action is historically significant as it demonstrates the extent of the king's rebellion against God, choosing to destroy rather than heed the warning.

until the entire scroll was consumed by the fire
The phrase "until the entire scroll was consumed by the fire" emphasizes the totality of the king's rejection. The complete consumption of the scroll signifies an utter disregard for the prophetic word. In a broader scriptural context, this act of destruction is futile, as God's word is enduring and cannot be truly destroyed by human hands. This serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring nature of divine truth, despite human attempts to suppress it. The historical context here is crucial, as it reflects the period's political and spiritual climate, where leaders often resisted prophetic calls for repentance and change.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah, often warning them of impending judgment due to their disobedience.

2. Jehoiakim
The king of Judah during this time, known for his rebellion against God's word and his disregard for the prophetic messages delivered by Jeremiah.

3. Baruch
Jeremiah's scribe, who wrote down the words of the prophecy as dictated by Jeremiah and read them to the people and officials.

4. Jehudi
A court official who read the scroll to King Jehoiakim, acting as a messenger of the prophetic word.

5. The Scroll
The written record of Jeremiah's prophecies, which was meant to be a warning to the people of Judah about the consequences of their actions.

Teaching Points

The Rejection of God's Word
Jehoiakim's act of cutting and burning the scroll symbolizes a deliberate rejection of God's message. This serves as a warning against hardening our hearts to divine instruction.

The Indestructibility of God's Word
Despite Jehoiakim's actions, God's word remains unbroken and continues to fulfill its purpose. This teaches us about the eternal and unchanging nature of Scripture.

The Role of the Messenger
Jehudi and Baruch played crucial roles in delivering God's message. This highlights the importance of being faithful messengers of God's truth, regardless of the audience's response.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoiakim's actions led to further judgment upon Judah. This serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of ignoring God's warnings and commands.

The Call to Repentance
Unlike Jehoiakim, we are called to respond to God's word with humility and repentance, aligning our lives with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehoiakim's response to the scroll reflect the condition of his heart, and what can we learn from this about our own responses to God's word?

2. In what ways does the account of Jehoiakim contrast with the response of King Josiah to the reading of the Law? How can this contrast inform our approach to Scripture?

3. How does the indestructibility of God's word, as seen in this passage, encourage us in our faith today?

4. What role do Baruch and Jehudi play in the dissemination of God's message, and how can we apply their example in our own lives as messengers of the Gospel?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced resistance or rejection when sharing God's word. How does this passage encourage you to remain faithful in your witness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 22-23
The account of King Josiah, Jehoiakim's father, who responded to the reading of the Law with repentance and reform, contrasting Jehoiakim's response.

Hebrews 4:12
Highlights the power and living nature of God's word, contrasting with Jehoiakim's attempt to destroy it physically.

Isaiah 40:8
Emphasizes the enduring nature of God's word, which stands forever despite human attempts to suppress it.