Jeremiah, The Reluctant Prophet

JEREMIAH, THE RELUCTANT PROPHET

Jeremiah 1:1-10

INTRODUCTION

A. God chose several different ways to call the O.T. prophets. We would misuse the Scriptures if we attempted to show that God is still calling prophets in the same way today.

B. Any who speak God’s word, however, can profit from a study of Jeremiah, the reluctant prophet.

I. JEREMIAH’S CALL AND RELUCTANCE (1:1-6)

A. Many who preach have shared this trait (Ex 3:11; 1 Tim 4:11-12; 2 Tim 1:7).

B. Perhaps natural timidity helps preachers maintain balance in ministry, when sometimes the message must be predominantly negative (v.10; 2 Tim 4:1-5).

II. GOD’S ASSURANCE (VV. 7-10)

A. Although the message may be negative, it is for a positive purpose (2 Tim 2:24-26).

B. That which God put into Jeremiah’s mouth must be that which fills the mouth of every mouthpiece of God (2 Tim 3:14-4:2; 1 Pet 4:10-11).

III. GOD’S ASSURANCE IN BALANCE (V.8)

A. Consider some of the things Jeremiah experienced (16:1-3; 37:11-16; 38:1-13).

B. God’s assurance was of ultimate vindication and victory, a promise not only to all who preach the word, but to all who believe it (2 Tim 2:10-13).

CONCLUSION

A. God does not touch the preacher’s mouth as he did Jeremiah’s, but he does touch people’s hearts to preach, teach, and serve.

B. If you feel the slightest pull to preach, teach, or in any way serve the Lord, but are reluctant to do so, remember God’s word to Paul: “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9).