Jeremiah 1 begins with the introduction of the prophet Jeremiah, who was called by God to be a prophet to the nations. The chapter starts by stating that Jeremiah received his divine calling during the reign of King Josiah of Judah. God speaks to Jeremiah and assures him that even before he was formed in the womb, God knew him and had set him apart for a special purpose.
God appoints Jeremiah as a prophet and encourages him not to fear, promising to be with him and guide him. God touches Jeremiah’s mouth and puts His words in Jeremiah’s mouth, symbolizing that Jeremiah’s words will carry divine authority.
God reveals to Jeremiah that he has appointed him as a prophet to pronounce judgment upon nations and kingdoms, to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, but also to build and plant. God also shows Jeremiah a vision of an almond tree and a boiling pot, indicating that He will watch over His word to fulfill it, and that disaster will come upon the land.
Overall, Jeremiah 1 establishes the divine calling of Jeremiah as a prophet, emphasizes God’s intimate knowledge and purpose for him, and foreshadows the difficult tasks Jeremiah will undertake in proclaiming God’s judgment and restoration.