In our video Bible Classes (on our YouTube Channel, “Dr. Mike Bagwell”) we are studying the great Old Testament Book of Jeremiah. The Book’s Introduction is amazing!
Look with me at the 4th Verse of Chapter 1, Jeremiah is the “me” in the Passage … “The word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.”
Wow!
Does God know what is happening in the womb? He sure did here. The verb “formed” is translated “potter” 17 times in the King James Old Testament. God “knew” baby Jeremiah, “sanctified” him (set him apart for special service), and “ordained” (called, but literally “gave” him as a Prophet to the world) him … in utero!
Talk about God’s omniscience! A big word with a Latin background meaning “knowing all,” all wise.
But my question is this. No doubt about our Text up above. God’s Word is inerrant (without mistake) … but I am wondering WHEN Jeremiah the young man (or child, or lad?) realized God had “called” him to the ministry?
Jesus at age 12 (and likely long before) knew His Life’s Work. He asked Mary and Joseph … “How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” (Luke 2:49)
I knew for sure at age 14-15 … God was calling me to preach. (And suspected it a lot earlier!)
My point today … God can and does use Preachers who were “touched” by His Hand long ago!
Do NOT discourage that young one who senses the direction of God in his life.
Jeremiah is special, no doubt. But God just might still be making some special men of God … early in their lives. Like, while they are yet unborn!
By the way, watch the two video Lessons on Jeremiah chapter 1 when you can!
… Dr. Mike Bagwell