The "Command to Write the Words" refers to instances in the Bible where God instructs individuals to record His words, laws, or visions. This command underscores the importance of preserving divine revelation for future generations and ensuring the accuracy and continuity of God's message to His people.

Old Testament Instances

1. Moses: One of the earliest and most significant commands to write is given to Moses. In Exodus 34:27, God instructs Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." This command highlights the importance of documenting the covenantal laws and the foundational events of Israel's history.

2. Joshua: Following Moses, Joshua is also commanded to write. In Joshua 24:26, it is recorded, "And Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God." This act of writing serves to reaffirm the covenant and ensure that the laws given to Moses are preserved and adhered to by the Israelites.

3. Prophets: Several prophets received commands to write down their visions and prophecies. For instance, in Habakkuk 2:2, the Lord instructs, "Write down the vision and make it plain on tablets, so that a herald may run with it." This command emphasizes the need for clarity and dissemination of God's message.

New Testament Instances

1. John the Apostle: In the New Testament, the Apostle John receives a command to write in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 1:11 states, "Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches." This directive ensures that the prophetic visions given to John are communicated to the early Christian communities, providing guidance and encouragement.

2. Paul's Epistles: While not always a direct command from God, the Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes the importance of writing to communicate doctrine, instruction, and encouragement to the early churches. His letters, such as those to the Corinthians, Galatians, and Romans, form a significant portion of the New Testament and are foundational to Christian theology.

Theological Significance

The command to write the words of God serves several purposes within the biblical narrative. It acts as a means of preserving divine revelation, ensuring that God's laws, covenants, and prophecies are accurately transmitted through generations. Writing also provides a tangible record that can be referenced, studied, and obeyed by God's people.

Moreover, the act of writing underscores the authority and permanence of God's word. In a world where oral traditions could be altered or forgotten, written records offer a stable and unchanging testament to God's will and purpose. This aligns with the belief in the inerrancy and infallibility of Scripture, as the written word is seen as divinely inspired and authoritative.

In summary, the command to write the words of God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the importance of documentation, preservation, and dissemination of divine revelation. It serves as a testament to the enduring nature of God's word and its central role in guiding the faith and practice of His people.