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Jeremiah 1:1-19 open_in_new
The first three verses constitute a title page naming the author and giving the dates of the period during which he exercised his ministry. The Book opens with the account of Jeremiah's call, and at once reveals the clearness of that call and his shrinking from the great work. With great patience Jehovah bore with Jeremiah's fear, and encouraged him by words and signs. It is interesting to note how the "I" of Jehovah was set over against the "I" of Jeremiah.
Two signs were granted to him, the first, the almond tree, being life in the midst of death, or spring following winter. In a day when the word of the Lord seemed to be forgotten entirely, Jehovah declared, "I watch over My word to perform it."
The second was a seething cauldron, the sign of coming destruction. After these signs the word of divine command was spoken to Jeremiah, and strength equal to the task awaiting him was promised.