As soon as Jehudi would read three or four columns, Jehoiakim would cut the scroll with a scribe’s knife and throw the columns into the blazing fire until the entire scroll was consumed by the fire in the brazier. As they heard all these words, the king and all of his servants did not become terrified or tear their garments. Even though Elnathan, Delaiah, and Gemariah had urged the king not to burn the scroll, he would not listen to them.
What arrogance! Earthly power corrupts one’s heart when it is not kept in check by godly humility. Only a proud, arrogant, hard heart would have the audacity to slice and burn the very words of God as delivered by His servant. Father God’s word will not return to Him void. He will act in accordance with what He speaks and the consequences for those who reject it and even attempt to destroy it are severe (see verse 29-31 of this same chapter).
Throughout the ages there have been those arrogant prideful leaders who have attempted to destroy and thus silence the word of God. His word always rises up to outlive its pall bearers. Voltaire claimed that in 100 years the Bible would be irrelevant and useless. Now, in an irony that only Father God could engineer, the French Bible Society owns Voltaire’s house. God’s word is resilient, strong and faithful. Woe to those ignorant ones who attempt to silence God. May He have mercy on their souls.
Gracious Father, forgive us whenever we do the same in our lives. Speak loudly and clearly the path of life into our souls. We are Your servants. May our ears remain ever open. May our hearts remain ever tender. May Your Word always be lifted high in our lives that your Name may be glorified forever.
Slice and Burn – Jeremiah 36:23-25
Ventanas 