Jeremiah 35:18

Then Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites: "This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says: 'Because you have obeyed the command of your forefather Jonadab and have kept all his commandments and have done all that he charged you to do,

Study Bible

Then Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites:
Jeremiah, a major prophet in the Old Testament, is addressing the Rechabites, a nomadic clan known for their strict adherence to the commands of their ancestor Jonadab. This encounter takes place in the context of a test of obedience, where the Rechabites are brought into the temple and offered wine, which they refuse, demonstrating their commitment to their ancestral vows. The Rechabites' lifestyle contrasts with the Israelites' disobedience, serving as a living parable for the people of Judah.

“This is what the LORD of Hosts, the God of Israel, says:
The title "LORD of Hosts" emphasizes God's sovereignty and power over all heavenly and earthly armies. It underscores the authority of the message being delivered. The phrase "the God of Israel" reaffirms the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people, Israel. This introduction is typical of prophetic declarations, indicating that the message is not Jeremiah's own but divinely inspired.

‘Because you have obeyed the command of your forefather Jonadab
Jonadab, son of Rechab, was a key figure during the time of King Jehu, known for his zeal in eradicating Baal worship from Israel (2 Kings 10:15-23). His commands to his descendants included abstaining from wine, not building houses, and living in tents, which were meant to preserve their nomadic lifestyle and set them apart from the surrounding cultures. The Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab's commands is highlighted as exemplary, contrasting with the disobedience of the Israelites to God's commands.

and have kept all his commandments
The Rechabites' faithfulness in keeping Jonadab's commandments is a testament to their respect for tradition and authority. This obedience is not just in abstaining from wine but in maintaining a lifestyle that reflects their ancestor's values. Their commitment serves as a rebuke to the people of Judah, who have failed to keep God's commandments despite His repeated warnings through the prophets.

and have done all that he charged you to do,
The Rechabites' complete adherence to Jonadab's instructions is emphasized here. Their actions are a model of faithfulness and integrity, demonstrating the importance of obedience to rightful authority. This phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of their obedience, which includes both specific actions and a broader lifestyle commitment. The Rechabites' example serves as a prophetic illustration of the blessings that come from obedience, foreshadowing the ultimate obedience of Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the will of His Father.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. He is known for his prophecies of judgment and hope.

2. The Rechabites
A nomadic clan in Israel known for their strict adherence to the commands of their ancestor Jonadab, including abstaining from wine and living in tents.

3. Jonadab (Jehonadab)
The forefather of the Rechabites, who commanded his descendants to live a life of simplicity and abstinence, as a way to remain faithful to God.

4. The LORD of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and command over the heavenly armies, highlighting His power and authority.

5. The God of Israel
A title that underscores God's covenant relationship with the people of Israel, reminding them of His faithfulness and their obligations to Him.

Teaching Points

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

Living Counter-Culturally
The Rechabites' lifestyle was distinct from the surrounding culture, reminding believers of the call to live set apart and not conform to worldly standards.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The Rechabites' commitment to seemingly small commands highlights the importance of faithfulness in all areas of life, as God values obedience in both great and small matters.

God's Recognition of Faithfulness
God acknowledges and rewards the faithfulness of the Rechabites, encouraging believers that their obedience does not go unnoticed by God.

The Power of Example
Jonadab's influence on his descendants underscores the impact one person's faithfulness can have on future generations, inspiring believers to live lives worthy of emulation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the Rechabites challenge us to evaluate the traditions and teachings we uphold in our own families?

2. In what ways can we live counter-culturally in today's society while remaining faithful to God's commands?

3. How does the Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab's commands reflect the biblical principle of honoring one's parents, and how can we apply this in our lives?

4. What are some "small" areas of obedience in our lives that we might overlook, and how can we be more faithful in these areas?

5. How can we be intentional about setting a godly example for future generations, and what steps can we take to ensure our faith is passed down effectively?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:12
The Rechabites' obedience to Jonadab's command can be connected to the commandment to honor one's father and mother, showing the importance of familial obedience as a reflection of obedience to God.

1 Samuel 15:22
This verse emphasizes that obedience is better than sacrifice, paralleling the Rechabites' faithful adherence to their ancestor's commands as more valuable than ritual offerings.

Hebrews 11:8-10
The faith of Abraham, who lived as a nomad in obedience to God's call, can be compared to the Rechabites' lifestyle, which was a testament to their faith and obedience.