Jeremiah 35:2

"Go to the house of the Rechabites, speak to them, and bring them to one of the chambers of the house of the LORD to offer them a drink of wine."

Study Bible

Go to the house of the Rechabites
The Rechabites were a nomadic clan descended from Jonadab, son of Rechab, who lived during the time of King Jehu of Israel (2 Kings 10:15-23). They were known for their strict adherence to a lifestyle of abstinence from wine, living in tents, and avoiding permanent settlements, as commanded by their ancestor Jonadab. This command was a reaction against the Canaanite influence and idolatry, promoting a lifestyle of simplicity and devotion to God. The Rechabites serve as a model of faithfulness and obedience, contrasting with the disobedience of Judah.

speak to them
Jeremiah is instructed to engage directly with the Rechabites, highlighting the importance of personal communication in prophetic ministry. This direct approach underscores the relational aspect of God's dealings with His people, emphasizing the need for clear and personal communication of His will.

and bring them to one of the chambers of the house of the LORD
The chambers in the temple were used for various purposes, including storage and as meeting places for priests and Levites. Bringing the Rechabites to the temple signifies a formal and solemn setting, underscoring the seriousness of the test that Jeremiah is about to present. It also highlights the temple as a place of divine encounter and revelation.

to offer them a drink of wine
This action serves as a test of the Rechabites' commitment to their ancestral vow. Wine, often associated with joy and celebration in the Bible, here becomes a symbol of temptation and potential compromise. The Rechabites' refusal to drink wine, as recorded later in the chapter, serves as a powerful testimony to their faithfulness and integrity. This incident foreshadows the New Testament emphasis on spiritual sobriety and self-control (Ephesians 5:18, 1 Peter 5:8).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
A prophet called by God to deliver His messages to the people of Judah. Known for his perseverance and faithfulness amidst opposition.

2. Rechabites
A nomadic clan descended from Rechab, known for their strict adherence to a lifestyle of abstinence from wine and living in tents, as commanded by their ancestor Jonadab.

3. House of the LORD
Refers to the temple in Jerusalem, a central place of worship for the Israelites and a symbol of God's presence among His people.

4. Jonadab son of Rechab
Ancestor of the Rechabites, who commanded his descendants to live a life of simplicity and abstinence, which they faithfully followed.

5. Chambers of the Temple
Rooms within the temple complex used for various purposes, including storage and meetings, indicating a place of significance and reverence.

Teaching Points

Obedience and Faithfulness
The Rechabites' adherence to their ancestor's commands serves as a powerful example of obedience and faithfulness to one's commitments and values.

Counter-Cultural Living
The Rechabites lived a lifestyle that was distinct from the surrounding culture, reminding believers of the call to live set apart for God.

Legacy of Faith
Jonadab's influence on his descendants underscores the impact of a godly legacy and the importance of passing down faith and values to future generations.

Testing and Integrity
Jeremiah's test of the Rechabites' resolve highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and standing firm in one's convictions, even when challenged.

Symbolism of the Temple
Bringing the Rechabites into the temple chambers symbolizes the integration of faith into all areas of life, not just in places of worship.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of the Rechabites challenge us to live counter-culturally in today's society?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are passing down a legacy of faith and obedience to future generations?

3. How can the Rechabites' commitment to their ancestor's commands inspire us to remain faithful to God's Word?

4. What are some modern-day "tests" of our faith and integrity, and how can we prepare to stand firm in them?

5. How does the symbolism of the temple in this passage encourage us to integrate our faith into every aspect of our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 10:15-23
This passage provides background on Jonadab son of Rechab, who supported Jehu in eradicating Baal worship, highlighting his zeal for the Lord.

Numbers 6:1-21
The Nazirite vow, which includes abstaining from wine, parallels the Rechabites' commitment to abstinence, emphasizing dedication to God.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
This New Testament passage speaks to the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, drawing a parallel to the Rechabites' discipline and self-control.