Jeremiah gave this word of encouragement to his assistant Baruch on the occasion when Baruch had to read the scroll of God’s judgments to the people (45:1; see 36:1-32). Baruch was distressed, but, says Jeremiah, think how much more distressed is God, who is about to destroy the very nation that he has built up (2-4). Baruch was thinking how his unpopular announcements might affect his own security or advancement; but, says Jeremiah, when divine judgment falls on Judah, Baruch will be thankful enough just to come out alive (5).
Bibliographical Information Flemming, Donald C. "Commentary on Jeremiah 45". "Fleming's Bridgeway Bible Commentary". https://studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bbc/jeremiah-45.html. 2005.
Verses 1-5
A message for Baruch (45:1-5)
Jeremiah gave this word of encouragement to his assistant Baruch on the occasion when Baruch had to read the scroll of God’s judgments to the people (45:1; see 36:1-32). Baruch was distressed, but, says Jeremiah, think how much more distressed is God, who is about to destroy the very nation that he has built up (2-4). Baruch was thinking how his unpopular announcements might affect his own security or advancement; but, says Jeremiah, when divine judgment falls on Judah, Baruch will be thankful enough just to come out alive (5).