Contextual Importance

This verse is set during a significant time in Judah's history, specifically in the reign of Jehoiakim, which is noted for its political instability and spiritual rebellion.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the authority of God's message delivered to Jeremiah, highlighting that the prophetic word served not only as a warning to Judah but as a testament to God’s continued engagement with His people. This message is a call for repentance, showcasing God's mercy even amid judgment.
• Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that this verse underscores the divine appointment of Jeremiah as a prophet. It illustrates how critical this period was, as the word of God became increasingly sparse during Jehoiakim's rule due to his unfaithfulness.
• Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the specifics of the timing, noting that Jehoiakim's fourth year corresponds to the political turmoil leading up to Jerusalem's eventual fall. Clarke sees the delivering of this message as integral to preparing the people for impending calamities, urging them to listen and heed the prophetic words.

Significance of the Year

The mention of "the fourth year of Jehoiakim" is significant. It marks not just a temporal reference but serves as a backdrop to the spiritual state of the nation, characterized by idolatry and apostasy.

Bible Verse Cross-References

• 2 Kings 24:1 - This verse discusses the reign of Jehoiakim and foreshadows the events leading to captivity.
• Jeremiah 1:4-10 - Here, the call of Jeremiah is detailed, emphasizing his role as a prophet from a young age.
• Jeremiah 25:3 - This passage shows the duration of Jeremiah's ministry and the repeated calls to repentance.
• Ezekiel 2:3-5 - Similar to Jeremiah, Ezekiel is called to deliver God’s message to Israel, emphasizing the critical nature of prophetic voices in dire times.
• Amos 3:7 - This verse affirms that God reveals His plans through His prophets, reinforcing the necessity of listening to prophetic warnings.
• Isaiah 30:10 - This verse reflects the attitudes of the people who often wished to silence the prophets, showing their hardened hearts.
• 2 Chronicles 36:5-8 - This passage further expounds of Jehoiakim’s wicked reign and its consequences, setting the historical stage for Jeremiah’s prophecies.

Thematic Connections

Jeremiah 36:1 serves as a foundational text linking themes of divine communication, prophecy, and judgment. Understanding this verse opens pathways to explore these themes across both the Old and New Testaments.

Additional Insights on Cross-Referencing

Engaging with this verse through cross-referencing allows us to identify the interconnectedness of Scripture, providing a comprehensive Bible verse analysis that enriches our understanding. Tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance study by illustrating how these texts relate to God's overarching narrative of redemption.

• By examining the context of Jeremiah’s message, we establish connections with other prophetic texts that also speak of judgment and hope.
• For instance, the lament over Jerusalem in Lamentations can reflect back on the messages Jeremiah shares in his prophecies, revealing consistent themes of sorrow and warning.
• The sayings of Jesus in the New Testament also parallel the warnings issued by the Old Testament prophets, demonstrating continuity in God's message throughout Scripture.

Conclusion

This exploration of Jeremiah 36:1 showcases the depth of God's communication through His prophets and invites readers to engage deeply with the text. By employing a structured approach to cross-referencing biblical texts, one can uncover rich theological insights and appreciate the intricate tapestry of Scripture.