16 Because the sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have performed the commandment of their father, which he commanded them; but this people hath not hearkened unto me:
16 The descendants of Jehonadab son of Rekab have carried out the command their forefather gave them, but these people have not obeyed me.'
16 The sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have kept the command that their father gave them, but this people has not obeyed me.
16 The descendants of Jonadab son of Recab carried out to the letter what their ancestor commanded them, but this people ignores me.'
16 Surely the sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have performed the commandment of their father, which he commanded them, but this people has not obeyed Me." '
16 The descendants of Jehonadab son of Recab have obeyed their ancestor completely, but you have refused to listen to me.'
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Jeremiah 35:16
Commentary on Jeremiah 35:12-19
(Read Jeremiah 35:12-19)
The trial of the Rechabites' constancy was for a sign; it made the disobedience of the Jews to God the more marked. The Rechabites were obedient to one who was but a man like themselves, and Jonadab never did for his seed what God has done for his people. Mercy is promised to the Rechabites. We are not told respecting the performance of this promise; but doubtless it was performed, and travellers say the Rechabites may be found a separate people to this day. Let us follow the counsels of our pious forefathers, and we shall find good in so doing.