Baruch’s role as the personal, professional scribe to Jeremiah is in important dimension of this book, as opposed to the way in which Isaiah or Ezekiel depict the prophetic writing experience. What do you make of Baruch? Had you heard of him before? Why do you think we don’t hear about any scribes associated with other Biblical prophets?
What do you make of the idea that prophetic works are often created, edited, added to, and curated by a collective, rather than one lone individual? Does that change your view of prophecy? Why or why not?
Do you think it is ever possible to go back to the “original words” of a prophet? Why or why not? Why do you think people place so much importance on these so-called “original words,” and is that importance well- or mis-placed?
Applying the Text:
Where do you think the meaning of something is located? We see that in the Book of Jeremiah, the scroll can be destroyed, but the message can survive and return. Does that tell us anything about where the meaning of prophecy is located? Do you agree with this idea? Why or why not?
How does prophecy function in your faith practice? Are there still new prophecies being made today?
How do you feel about Jeremiah, the prophet, now? Do you think he was a ‘good’ prophet? How would you explain his approach to prophecy to someone who asked about him in your faith community?