Jeremiah 35:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Jeremiah 35:14
14 The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, that he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are performed; for unto this day they drink none, but obey their father's commandment: notwithstanding I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto me.
Chapter Context
Jeremiah 35 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of salvation, judgment, wisdom. Written during the final years of Judah and early exile (c. 627-580 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Prophesied during Judah's final years as Babylon became the dominant power.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Jeremiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Jeremiah 35:14
14 The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, that he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are performed; for unto this day they drink none, but obey their father's commandment: notwithstanding I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto me.
Analysis
God contrasts Jonadab's words (obeyed for 200+ years) with His own words (continually rejected). The phrase 'rising up early and speaking' emphasizes God's persistent efforts to reach His people. Yet 'ye have not inclined your ear unto me.' Human authority sometimes commands better obedience than divine authority - an indictment of hard hearts. This persistence makes judgment just.
Historical Context
The Rechabites' obedience to human authority shames Judah's disobedience to divine authority. Lesser obligations were kept; greater ones were broken.
Reflection
- Why do people sometimes obey human authority better than God's?
- How does God's persistent speaking to you increase your accountability?
Word Studies
- Word: דָּבָר (Davar) H1697 - Word, thing, matter
Cross-References
- Kingdom: Jeremiah 7:13
- Word: Jeremiah 26:5, 29:19, Nehemiah 9:26, Isaiah 30:9
- Sin: Jeremiah 11:7, 32:33
- Parallel theme: Nehemiah 9:30, Isaiah 50:2