Jeremiah 35:12

Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah:

Study Bible

Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah:
*Biblical Context:* This phrase indicates a divine communication, a common occurrence in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. Jeremiah, a major prophet, often received direct messages from God to deliver to the people of Judah. This underscores the authority and divine origin of the message.

*Historical and Cultural Context:* Jeremiah's ministry took place during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, leading up to the Babylonian exile. Prophets like Jeremiah were crucial in guiding the people and calling them back to covenant faithfulness.

*Connections to Other Scripture:* The phrase "the word of the LORD came" is frequently used in the Old Testament to introduce prophetic messages (e.g., Ezekiel 1:3, Jonah 1:1). It emphasizes the role of prophets as God's mouthpieces.

*Prophecy:* This introduction often precedes a message of warning, instruction, or future promise. In the context of Jeremiah 35, it follows the account of the Rechabites, who obeyed their ancestor's command, contrasting with Judah's disobedience to God.

*Types of Jesus Christ:* While this specific phrase does not directly typify Christ, the role of a prophet as a mediator of God's word foreshadows Christ, who is the ultimate revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2).

*Archaeological Insights:* While there are no direct archaeological findings related to this specific phrase, the broader context of Jeremiah's ministry is supported by historical records of the Babylonian conquest and exile, which align with biblical accounts.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A major prophet in the Old Testament, called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance and faithfulness amidst persecution and rejection.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and guidance through His prophets.

3. The Rechabites
A nomadic clan in Israel, known for their obedience to their ancestor Jonadab's command to abstain from wine and live in tents, as described earlier in Jeremiah 35.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, often the recipient of Jeremiah's prophecies, which included calls to repentance and warnings of impending judgment.

5. The Temple in Jerusalem
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where Jeremiah often delivered his messages.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God’s Word
The Rechabites' faithfulness to their ancestor's command serves as a powerful example of obedience. Believers are called to obey God's Word, even when it is counter-cultural or inconvenient.

Faithfulness in Small Things
The Rechabites' commitment to seemingly small commands (abstaining from wine, living in tents) demonstrates that faithfulness in small things is significant in God's eyes.

Contrast of Obedience and Disobedience
The Rechabites' obedience is set against Judah's disobedience, reminding us that God values our adherence to His commands and that disobedience has consequences.

Generational Faithfulness
The Rechabites' adherence to Jonadab's commands across generations highlights the importance of passing down faith and values to future generations.

Listening to God’s Prophets
Just as the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah, believers are encouraged to listen to God's messengers today, whether through Scripture, sermons, or godly counsel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of the Rechabites challenge your own commitment to God's commands in your daily life?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate faithfulness in the "small things" that God has called you to do?

3. How can you ensure that the values and faith you hold dear are passed down to the next generation?

4. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to disobey God's Word. What can you learn from the Rechabites' example to help you in future situations?

5. How can you better discern and respond to the messages God is communicating to you through His Word and His messengers today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 35:1-11
Provides context for verse 12, detailing the obedience of the Rechabites to their ancestor's commands, contrasting with Judah's disobedience to God's commands.

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's father and mother, which the Rechabites exemplified by obeying Jonadab's instructions.

1 Samuel 15:22
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, a theme echoed in the Rechabites' faithfulness.

Hebrews 11:8-10
The faith of Abraham, who lived as a nomad, similar to the Rechabites, trusting in God's promises.