Jeremiah 35:14

The words of Jonadab son of Rechab have been carried out. He commanded his sons not to drink wine, and they have not drunk it to this very day because they have obeyed the command of their forefather. But I have spoken to you again and again, and you have not obeyed Me!

Study Bible

The words of Jonadab son of Rechab have been carried out.
Jonadab, son of Rechab, was a Kenite, a group associated with the Midianites and known for their nomadic lifestyle. His influence is seen in 2 Kings 10:15-23, where he assists Jehu in eradicating Baal worship from Israel. The Rechabites are noted for their strict adherence to Jonadab's commands, which included abstaining from wine, living in tents, and not sowing seed. This obedience highlights a commitment to a lifestyle that separates them from the surrounding culture, emphasizing faithfulness to their ancestor's instructions.

He commanded his sons not to drink wine,
The command to abstain from wine is significant in the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, where wine was a common part of daily life and religious rituals. This abstinence symbolizes a rejection of the cultural norms and a dedication to a life of discipline and self-control. It also reflects a vow similar to the Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:1-4), which included abstaining from wine as a sign of consecration to God.

and they have not drunk it to this very day
The Rechabites' continued obedience over generations underscores the power of tradition and the respect for ancestral authority. This steadfastness serves as a contrast to the Israelites' disobedience to God's commands. The Rechabites' faithfulness is a living testimony to the possibility of maintaining integrity and obedience over time, despite external pressures.

because they have obeyed the command of their forefather.
The emphasis on obedience to a forefather's command highlights the importance of honoring one's heritage and the values passed down through generations. This obedience is a model of faithfulness and respect for authority, which is a recurring theme in biblical teachings (Ephesians 6:1-3). It also serves as a critique of Israel's failure to obey God, their ultimate Father.

But I have spoken to you again and again,
God's repeated communication with Israel through prophets demonstrates His patience and desire for His people to return to Him. This phrase reflects the persistent nature of God's call to repentance and the numerous opportunities He provides for His people to change their ways. It echoes the prophetic tradition where God continually reaches out to His people despite their rebellion (Jeremiah 7:13, 25).

and you have not obeyed Me!
This statement is a direct indictment of Israel's disobedience and highlights the contrast between the Rechabites' faithfulness and Israel's unfaithfulness. It underscores the theme of covenant unfaithfulness that runs throughout the prophetic literature. The failure to obey God is a central issue in the relationship between God and Israel, leading to the consequences of exile and judgment. This disobedience is a reminder of the need for repentance and the consequences of ignoring God's commands (Deuteronomy 28:15-68).

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 instructions were followed faithfully by his descendants.

2. Rechabites
A clan in Israel who adhered strictly to the commands of their ancestor Jonadab, serving as an example of obedience and faithfulness.

3. Jeremiah
A prophet of God who used the example of the Rechabites to illustrate the disobedience of the people of Judah to God's commands.

4. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which was often rebuked by prophets like Jeremiah for its disobedience and idolatry.

5. God's Repeated Warnings
The context of this verse is God's repeated attempts to call His people to repentance and obedience through His prophets.

Teaching Points

The Power of Legacy
Jonadab's influence on his descendants shows the lasting impact of a godly legacy. Parents and leaders should consider the values they instill in others.

Obedience as a Testimony
The Rechabites' obedience served as a powerful testimony to the people of Judah. Our obedience to God can be a witness to those around us.

God's Patience and Persistence
Despite repeated disobedience, God continues to call His people back to Him. This demonstrates His patience and desire for relationship.

Contrast of Obedience
The Rechabites' faithfulness contrasts with Judah's disobedience, reminding us to examine our own lives for areas where we may be ignoring God's commands.

Practical Obedience
The Rechabites' lifestyle choices were practical expressions of their obedience. We should seek tangible ways to live out our faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the Rechabites challenge our understanding of obedience to God and to our earthly authorities?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the values we pass on to future generations are aligned with biblical principles?

3. How does the Rechabites' obedience serve as a contrast to the behavior of the people of Judah, and what can we learn from this contrast?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our obedience to God is evident in our daily lives?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Jeremiah 35:14 to our understanding of God's patience and persistence in calling us to repentance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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
The importance of obedience over sacrifice, highlighting that God values adherence to His commands above ritualistic offerings.

Proverbs 3:1-2
The blessings of obedience to parental and divine instruction, promising long life and peace.

Hebrews 12:9
The analogy of earthly fathers disciplining their children and the greater importance of submitting to the Father of spirits.