Jeremiah 35:6

"We do not drink wine," they replied, "for our forefather Jonadab son of Rechab commanded us, 'Neither you nor your descendants are ever to drink wine.

Study Bible

But they replied
This phrase introduces the response of the Rechabites to the prophet Jeremiah. The Rechabites are a clan known for their strict adherence to the commands of their ancestor, Jonadab son of Rechab. Their reply is significant as it reflects their commitment to their ancestral traditions. In a broader biblical context, this moment highlights the importance of obedience and faithfulness, themes that resonate throughout Scripture. The Rechabites' response is a testament to their integrity and serves as a model of steadfastness in faith.

We do not drink wine
This declaration is central to the Rechabites' identity. The abstention from wine is a direct command from their forefather Jonadab, who instructed them to live a nomadic lifestyle, avoiding the trappings of settled life, which included the consumption of wine. In the Hebrew context, wine often symbolizes joy and celebration, but it can also represent temptation and excess. The Rechabites' refusal to drink wine is a powerful symbol of their dedication to a life of discipline and separation from worldly indulgences, echoing the Nazarite vow of abstinence found in Numbers 6.

for Jonadab son of Rechab
Jonadab, the son of Rechab, is a significant figure in the history of Israel. He is mentioned in 2 Kings 10:15-23 as an ally of Jehu in eradicating Baal worship from Israel. His legacy is one of zeal for the Lord and a commitment to purity and holiness. The Rechabites' adherence to Jonadab's commands centuries later underscores the enduring influence of a godly heritage. This highlights the biblical principle that the faith and values of one generation can profoundly impact future generations.

our forefather
The term "forefather" emphasizes the generational aspect of the Rechabites' obedience. It reflects the biblical theme of honoring one's ancestors and maintaining the traditions and commandments passed down through the family line. In a conservative Christian perspective, this underscores the importance of family and the transmission of faith and values from one generation to the next, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where parents are instructed to teach God's commandments to their children.

commanded us
The word "commanded" indicates a directive that carries authority and expectation of obedience. In the Hebrew context, commandments are not merely suggestions but are binding and require adherence. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's commandments to His people, which are given for their benefit and to guide them in righteousness. The Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab's command is a microcosm of the larger call for God's people to obey His laws and statutes.

‘You and your descendants must never drink wine
This command from Jonadab to his descendants is a specific and enduring prohibition. It serves as a boundary that sets the Rechabites apart from the surrounding culture. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a call to holiness and separation from the world, a theme that is prevalent throughout the Bible. The Rechabites' commitment to this command is a powerful example of living counter-culturally in obedience to a higher calling, reminiscent of Romans 12:2, which urges believers not to conform to the patterns of this world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonadab son of Rechab
A forefather of the Rechabites, known for his command to his descendants to abstain from wine and live a nomadic lifestyle. His influence is evident in the obedience of his descendants.

2. Rechabites
A clan in Israel known for their strict adherence to the commands of their ancestor Jonadab. They serve as an example of faithfulness and obedience in the account.

3. Jeremiah
The prophet who uses the Rechabites' obedience as a lesson for the people of Judah, contrasting their faithfulness with Judah's disobedience to God.

4. Jerusalem
The setting where Jeremiah brings the Rechabites to test their obedience by offering them wine.

5. The Temple of the LORD
The location where Jeremiah conducts the test, symbolizing a place of divine presence and authority.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Godly Heritage
The Rechabites' faithfulness to Jonadab's command serves as a model for honoring and upholding godly traditions and teachings passed down through generations.

Counter-Cultural Living
Like the Rechabites, Christians are called to live distinctively, often in ways that contrast with societal norms, reflecting their commitment to God's commands.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The Rechabites' adherence to a seemingly small command (abstaining from wine) underscores the importance of faithfulness in all areas of life, as small acts of obedience can have significant spiritual implications.

The Power of Example
The Rechabites' example challenges believers to consider the impact of their own lives and the legacy they leave for future generations.

Testing and Proving Faith
Just as Jeremiah tested the Rechabites, believers may face tests that reveal the depth and authenticity of their faith and commitment to God's commands.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Rechabites to Jonadab's command challenge your understanding of honoring family traditions and teachings?

2. In what ways can you live a counter-cultural life that reflects your commitment to Christ, similar to the Rechabites' lifestyle?

3. Reflect on a "small" command or principle in your life that you may be overlooking. How can you demonstrate faithfulness in this area?

4. Consider the legacy you are building. What steps can you take to ensure it aligns with biblical principles and serves as a godly example for others?

5. How can you prepare for and respond to tests of faith that may come your way, ensuring that your actions reflect a deep commitment to God's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
The Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab's command reflects the broader biblical principle of honoring one's parents, as outlined in the Ten Commandments.

1 Samuel 15:22
The Rechabites' actions illustrate the principle that obedience is better than sacrifice, a theme echoed in Samuel's rebuke to Saul.

Romans 12:2
The Rechabites' counter-cultural lifestyle aligns with Paul's exhortation to not conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of the mind.