Bible Pathways - Aug. 24, 2009
Read Jeremiah 34
Highlights In Today's Reading:
In chapters 34 & 36, a very loving Heavenly Father warns His children of impending judgment so they may repent (36:1-3). No matter how often the wicked try to destroy the Word of God, it comes back, even stronger (36:32). The Rechabites are honored for their lifelong obedience (35:18-19).
When Nebuchadnezzar invaded Jerusalem, he made Jehoiakim his puppet-king. Jehoiakim was a cruel and ruthless ruler. Nebuchadnezzar took some of the prominent Israelites, including Daniel and his three friends, and carried away part of the vessels of the House of God (Dan. 1:2).
During that time, the Lord spoke to Jeremiah, who instructed his secretary Baruch, to record the judgment of God against Israel, and against Judah . . . from the day I spake unto thee . . . even unto this day (Jer. 36:2). His desire was to lead the nation of Judah to repentance (36:3).
The scroll was to be read to three audiences. First, read in the roll . . . the Words of the Lord . . . in the Lord's House . . . and also thou shalt read them in the ears of all Judah that come out of their cities. It may be they will . . . return every one from their evil way (36:6-10). Nothing is said about the people's reaction except for Micaiah who met with all the princes and declared unto them all the Words that he had heard. . . . So Baruch read it (a second time) in their ears (36:13-15). They appeared to be terrified by the prophet's words. These leaders urged Baruch: Go, hide thee, thou and Jeremiah (36:19), while a delegation informed the king.
Following this, the king sent Jehudi to fetch the Roll (Scroll, Book) (36:20-21). It was cold and rainy, and there was a fire on the hearth burning before him (36:22). When Jehudi had read three or four leaves, he was interrupted by Jehoiakim who cut it with a penknife (36:23). Then he flung it into the fire. As king he could not destroy its contents or change the meaning. Though the Roll was burned, the Truth it contained could not be destroyed. His reaction showed his rejection and hatred of Truth.
The Truth of God is eternal — The Word of the Lord endureth forever (I Pet. 1:25). Like Jehoiakim, many today seal their own fate and cut off all hope of eternal life by rejecting the Truth of the Word of God. It was not the Book of God that Jehoiakim rejected but the God of the Book. The paper or preacher can easily be destroyed, but Jesus our Lord said: My Words shall not pass away (Luke 21:33).
Thought for Today:
For the Commandment is a lamp; and the Law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life (Prov. 6:23).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who desires forgiveness, repentance, and liberty for all who are in bondage (Jer. 36:3). Jesus said: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me . . . to preach the Gospel (Luke 4:18-19).
Word Studies:
34:5 burnings = ceremonial incense burning, to honor the dead at their funerals, to honor kings at their funerals (II Chr. 16:14); 35:19 not want = be without.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Sen. Bob Corker (TN), Rep. John Culberson (TX), and Gov. Joe Manchin III (WV) • Country: Bangladesh (125.7 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Bangla and English • Present religious freedom may become limited • 86.6% Muslim; 12.1% Hindu; .6% Buddhist; .3% Christian; .4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Glorify the person, character, and attributes of God as you pray a prayer of praise (Ps. 8:1-9).
Optional Reading: 2 John 1
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:33
