Definition: Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not want a man to stand before me for ever.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 35:19. It's a really powerful and somewhat dramatic statement about a person named Jonadab. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: God is angry with Jonadab. The verse says God, the Lord of Israel, is deeply upset with Jonadab. He’s refusing to be treated fairly. Jonadab has been repeatedly rejected by people and society, and God is saying he will never be allowed to have a good or peaceful life. Let's unpack it further: “Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts…” – This is a formal and authoritative way for God to speak. It’s like a royal proclamation. “…the God of Israel” – This clarifies who is speaking – God Himself. “Jonadab the son of Rechab” - Jonadab was a man who had been rejected by his own people, and he's being referred to as this person. The name "Rechab" means "the faithful," so this figure represents someone who has consistently failed to be trusted or respected. “shall not want a man to stand before me for ever.” – This is the key part. It means that Jonadab will never be able to find any companionship, friendship, or opportunity to be valued by people. He’ll always be alone and excluded. What's the message? This verse speaks of a deep sense of injustice and God’s displeasure with someone who has repeatedly been rejected. It suggests that this person is destined to live a solitary and unhappy existence, perpetually facing loneliness and lack of acceptance. Important Note: The context of this verse comes from the Old Testament story of Jonadab and his relationship with Rechab. Jonadab was a man who had a very difficult and tumultuous life, and it’s believed that God was using this story to prepare the way for the rebuilding of the Tabernacle in Jerusalem. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context of this passage? Explore what this verse might mean in a broader theological sense (like about forgiveness and redemption)?