What role does obedience play in our relationship with God, according to Jeremiah 35:1? Setting the Scene “ ‘This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim son of Josiah king of Judah:’ ” (Jeremiah 35:1) • One short verse, yet it opens a narrative about the Rechabites, whose steadfast obedience contrasts sharply with Judah’s rebellion. • The theme is clear from the outset: God speaks, and His people are expected to respond in humble obedience. What the Rechabites Teach Us about Obedience • They honored a command given generations earlier (Jeremiah 35:6–10). • Their obedience was prompt—no excuses, no negotiation (v. 8). • God highlighted their faithfulness as a living parable to rebuke Judah’s disobedience (v. 14). • They received a remarkable promise of blessing for their obedience (v. 18–19). Key Roles Obedience Plays in Our Relationship with God • Confirmation of Lordship – When God speaks, obedience is the tangible proof we acknowledge Him as Lord (Luke 6:46). • Act of Worship – “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). Obedience is worship in everyday life. • Evidence of Love – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Love for God expresses itself through obedience. • Channel of Blessing – The Rechabites received an enduring promise; likewise, obedience positions us to enjoy God’s favor (Deuteronomy 28:1–2). • Testimony to Others – Their faithfulness became a public lesson for Judah. Our obedience likewise shines as a witness (Matthew 5:16). Supporting Scriptures 1 Samuel 15:22 – Obedience over ritual sacrifice Deuteronomy 28:1–2 – Blessings linked to obedience Psalm 119:4 – “You have ordained Your precepts, that we should keep them diligently.” John 14:15 – Love proved by obedience James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” Living It Out Today • Treat every biblical command as the authoritative “word that came from the LORD.” • Respond promptly; delayed obedience quickly slides into disobedience. • Guard small obediences—faithfulness in little things builds a lifestyle of obedience. • View obedience as relational, not transactional—an expression of love rather than mere duty. |
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