Fidelity to Our Covenant

Introduction

American colonists celebrated two great heroes during the American Revolution, George Washington and Benedict Arnold. The contribution of Washington is well known. On the other hand, celebrating Arnold as a hero surprises modern Americans. Nevertheless, during the early years of the war Arnold earned a reputation as a great soldier. In 1775, he shared in the capture of Fort Ticonderoga. In 1776, he stopped a British plan to isolate the northern colonies at the Battle of Lake Champlain. In 1777, Arnold had a crucial role in the decisive victory at Saratoga. What happened? Fueled by ambition and greed, he switched sides in 1780. Benedict Arnold is now synonymous with treason. Washington remained faithful to the goal of independence. He is honored as “the father of his country.”

1. Temptation (35:1-5)

a. Jeremiah offered wine to the Rechabites.

b. All believers face temptation ()

King James Version Chapter 10

13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

2. Faithfulness (35:6-11)

a. The Rechabites declined the wine.

b. Believers should rejoice when faced with temptation ()

King James Version Chapter 1

2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. 4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.

3. Treachery (35:12-17)

a. The citizens of Judah rejected the prophets who spoke God’s message.

b. Believers will find guidance in the Bible when faced with temptation ()

King James Version Chapter 3

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

4. Honor (35:18-19)

a. God promised a noble future to the Rechabites.

b. Believers will receive God’s esteem for faithful service ()

King James Version Chapter 4

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: 8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.