Topical Bible: God: Preserver: Jeremah and Baruch

◄ God: Preserver: Jeremah and Baruch ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, God is often depicted as the Preserver of His people, His word, and His purposes. This aspect of God's character is vividly illustrated in the lives of the prophet Jeremiah and his scribe, Baruch. Their account, set against the backdrop of impending judgment and exile, highlights God's faithfulness in preserving His message and messengers amidst adversity.

Jeremiah's Call and Mission

Jeremiah, known as the "weeping prophet," was called by God to deliver a message of impending judgment to the people of Judah due to their persistent idolatry and disobedience. From the outset, God assured Jeremiah of His preserving presence. In Jeremiah 1:8 , God declares, "Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you." This promise underscores God's role as Preserver, ensuring that Jeremiah's mission would be accomplished despite opposition.

Baruch: The Faithful Scribe

Baruch, the son of Neriah, served as Jeremiah's scribe and companion. His role was crucial in documenting and disseminating Jeremiah's prophecies. In Jeremiah 36, Baruch is instructed to write down all the words that God had spoken to Jeremiah. Despite the threat of persecution, Baruch faithfully read these words in the temple, demonstrating his commitment to preserving God's message.

Divine Preservation Amidst Persecution

The narrative in Jeremiah 36 illustrates God's preserving power. When King Jehoiakim attempted to destroy the scroll containing Jeremiah's prophecies by burning it, God commanded Jeremiah to rewrite the words on another scroll, adding even more to them (Jeremiah 36:27-28). This act of divine preservation ensured that God's word would endure despite human attempts to obliterate it.

Baruch's Personal Struggle and God's Assurance

Baruch faced personal struggles and discouragement in his service. In Jeremiah 45, Baruch expresses his weariness and sorrow. God responds with a message of reassurance, acknowledging Baruch's pain but reminding him of the larger divine plan. In Jeremiah 45:5 , God promises, "But I will give you your life like a spoil in all the places where you go." This promise highlights God's commitment to preserving Baruch's life amidst the chaos and destruction surrounding him.

Theological Implications

The accounts of Jeremiah and Baruch emphasize God's sovereignty and faithfulness in preserving His word and His servants. Despite the challenges and opposition they faced, God's purposes were not thwarted. The preservation of Jeremiah's prophecies, even after attempts to destroy them, serves as a testament to the enduring nature of God's word. Furthermore, God's personal assurance to Baruch reflects His care for those who faithfully serve Him, promising preservation and protection in the midst of trials.

Conclusion

The account of Jeremiah and Baruch is a powerful reminder of God's role as Preserver. Through their experiences, believers are encouraged to trust in God's faithfulness to preserve His word and His people, even in the face of adversity.

Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 36:26
But the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hammelech, and Seraiah the son of Azriel, and Shelemiah the son of Abdeel, to take Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet: but the LORD hid them.
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