Consecrated from the Womb. Theodoret of Cyr: God’s choice of
Jeremiah was not without basis: knowledge preceded it. Notice it says that God
had knowledge and then he consecrated, for he knows everything before it
happens. Now, he employed the word consecrated,
meaning “he appointed.” Then God also mentions the task for which he selected
him: “I appointed you as prophet to the nations.” Thus, he prophesies not only
concerning the fortunes of the Jews but also the other nations. “I replied, O
Lord and Master that you are, see, I do not know how to speak, because I am a
child.” The prophet recognized the one addressing him. This is why he called
him by a title having to do with lordship. When the mighty Moses was once
speaking, remember, and wanted to learn the divine name, the Lord said, “I am
the one who is.” He imitates Moses’ timidity by saying youth is not up to
prophesying. The Lord, however, urges him not to put forward the excuse of
youthfulness but to do as he is told. On Jeremiah 1.1.4–6. (Jeremiah,
Lamentations, ed. Dean O. Wenthe [Ancient Christian Commentary on
Scripture; Downers Grove, Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 2009], 2)
