Jeremiah 35:16
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: 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:
The verse sets the sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab, who performed the commandment of their father, over against this people — the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem — who did not hearken to God. The father's command was not to drink wine, which they kept unto that day, remaining steadfast even when invited to drink wine. Their constancy was fully proved, and nothing was required of them but what they were able to perform.
In contrast, God persistently appealed to Judah through words, warnings, and reproofs, speaking rising early and speaking and sending all His servants the prophets rising up early and sending them. His appeal called every man to return from his evil way and amend his doings and not go after other gods to serve them, so that they could dwell in the land given to them and to their fathers, but they did not incline the ear nor hearken. By the Rechabites' example of loyalty and faithfulness God exposed Judah's disobedience and unrighteous course, letting them see their aggravated failure to listen in contrast. Because He spoke to them and they did not hear, and called to them and they did not answer, He would bring upon Judah and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the evil He had pronounced against them. While persistent disobedience brings the announced judgment, the Rechabites' faithful obedience is commended and met with blessing.