The Rechabites were a small class or set who regarded Jonadab (cf. 2 kgs. 10:15) as their father or founder, and had received a charge from him to abstain from wine, from settles dwellings and from agriculture, i.e., the marks of a settled civilization. They normally lived a normed life, but, in fear of the advance of the armies of the north, they had taken refuge in Jerusalem.
- What test did Jeremiah, at God’s command, apply to the Rechabites?
And what message did God then give him to take to the people of Jerusalem? - Verses 13-17. Consider the frequency of this complaint: see 7:13, 25, 26; 25:3, 4, 7; 26:4, 5; 29:19; 44:4.
Are you careful to pay attention to God’s word to you, e.g., through teachers and preachers? - What traits of the Rachbites should be the distinguishing features of Christians today?
Cf. Matt. 24:12, 13; Heb. 10:36, 38, 39.