v1-5: “Drink some wine,” the test for the Rechabites. We may first see an encouragement for Jeremiah, that in the midst of disobedience, there were a few who remained faithful.

The context here was widespread disobedience and idolatry, and the threat from the army of Babylon. The Rechabites may have found things easier in better days, but here the trials made temptation harder to resist.

We meet Jaazaniah, the leader of the Rechabites; and the sons of Hanan, the man of God; although we are not told the same of his sons. Jeremiah brought the Rechabites into the chamber, within the temple, with witnesses.

v6-10: The Rechabites’ abstinence from wine was only part of their calling. They sought no security in this world, for they were sojourners in the land, and were travelling to a better country. Through the centuries, they had obeyed, whatever the cost, in ridicule, in reputation, in inconvenience; they had stayed faithful.

v11: Only when Nebuchadnezzar had invaded did they leave their tents, and move into Jerusalem.

v12-16: The lesson from the Rechabites; here was a family who for generations had obeyed the words of Jonadab their father, but the people of Judah would not obey the words of God. God had spoken repeatedly, but they had persisted in their disobedience.

v17-19: While Judah generally suffered punishment, the Rechabites would find mercy. In particular, there was a reward promised for their obedience. They had been faithful to their calling, giving up things that were legitimate, that they might serve God without distraction. They would join David and Levi (33.17-18) as being part of the restored nation.