Jeremiah 36:20 – “After they put the scroll in the room of Elishama the secretary, they went to the king in the courtyard and reported everything to him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, the officials take a cautious but deliberate approach after hearing the words of the scroll. They place the scroll in the room of Elishama, the royal secretary, likely to keep it safe and ensure that its contents are preserved. Then, they go to King Jehoiakim to report everything they heard from Baruch.
Their actions reflect the weight of the scroll’s message. By securing it in Elishama’s room, they acknowledge its importance. Their report to the king shows their understanding that the message required the king’s attention, even though they might have anticipated his resistance.
Historical Context
This event took place during King Jehoiakim’s reign, a time when Judah was facing political instability and spiritual rebellion. Jehoiakim was known for rejecting God’s Word and opposing Jeremiah’s ministry. The scroll, which contained warnings of judgment and calls to repentance, was a direct challenge to the king’s leadership and the nation’s sinful practices.
The officials’ decision to store the scroll before approaching the king might have been motivated by a desire to avoid immediate destruction of the document, given Jehoiakim’s hostility toward Jeremiah’s messages. This reflects the tension between their respect for God’s Word and their fear of the king’s reaction.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the seriousness of God’s Word and the responsibility of those who hear it to respond thoughtfully. The officials’ actions show that they recognized the scroll’s significance, even if they were uncertain about how to act on it.
It also demonstrates the sovereignty of God in preserving His Word. By placing the scroll in a secure location, the officials unknowingly participated in ensuring its survival, reflecting God’s ongoing work to protect and transmit His truth.
Literary Analysis
Jeremiah 36:20 serves as a transition in the narrative, moving the focus from the officials’ private hearing of the scroll to the king’s court. The verse contrasts the reverence shown by the officials in safeguarding the scroll with the anticipated reaction of the king, creating tension and anticipation for the next events.
The mention of Elishama’s room provides a sense of historical and physical grounding, emphasizing the care taken to preserve the scroll. The officials’ report to the king sets the stage for the conflict between God’s Word and human authority.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 2 Kings 22:10 – Shaphan reads the rediscovered Book of the Law to King Josiah, showing a different king’s response to hearing God’s Word.
- Isaiah 55:11 – God’s Word will accomplish what He desires, even in the face of opposition.
- Matthew 10:28 – “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul,” reminding us to prioritize obedience to God over fear of human authority.
- Acts 4:19-20 – Peter and John boldly proclaim God’s Word, refusing to bow to human opposition.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder of the weight and authority of God’s Word. The officials’ decision to preserve the scroll challenges us to treat Scripture with respect and recognize its importance in our lives.
This verse also encourages us to be wise and courageous when faced with opposition. While the officials took a cautious approach, they still ensured that God’s message reached the king. Similarly, we are called to share God’s truth faithfully, even in situations where it may be met with resistance.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His continued efforts to communicate with His people. By ensuring that the scroll was preserved and brought to the king’s attention, God demonstrated His desire for Judah to hear His warnings and turn back to Him.
The officials’ actions reflect God’s providence in safeguarding His Word. Even in a hostile environment, God worked through individuals to ensure that His message was not silenced. This persistence reflects His love and patience in calling His people to repentance.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jeremiah 36:20 points to Jesus as the ultimate embodiment of God’s Word. Just as the scroll carried a message of repentance and restoration, Jesus came to proclaim the good news of the kingdom and call people to turn back to God (Mark 1:15).
Like the scroll, Jesus’ message faced resistance from political and religious leaders. Yet, His Word could not be silenced. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus ensured that God’s truth would be preserved and proclaimed to all nations (Matthew 28:18-20).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think the officials decided to place the scroll in Elishama’s room before reporting to the king?
- How does this verse challenge us to treat God’s Word with reverence and care?
- What can we learn from the officials’ decision to ensure that the scroll’s message reached the king, despite the risks involved?
- How does this verse show God’s providence in preserving His Word?
- In what ways does Jesus fulfill the message of repentance and restoration seen in Jeremiah’s scroll?
Jeremiah 36:20 reminds us of the power and importance of God’s Word. It challenges us to preserve and share Scripture faithfully, even in the face of opposition, and to trust in God’s ability to accomplish His purposes. Let this verse inspire you to engage deeply with His Word and to share it boldly, knowing that it carries the power to transform lives.