In what ways can we apply Jehu's obedience to God's commands today? Setting the Scene: Jehu’s Mission - God raised up Jehu to wipe out the wicked dynasty of Ahab (2 Kings 9:6–10). - Jehu acted swiftly, and his decisive obedience set in motion events recorded in 2 Kings 9–10. - Verse focus: “His servants carried him in a chariot to Jerusalem and buried him in his tomb with his fathers in the City of David.” (2 Kings 9:28) • This burial of King Ahaziah confirmed that Jehu’s purge reached even the allied king of Judah, exactly as God had foretold (2 Chron 22:7–8). Why Jehu’s Obedience Matters - Scripture is accurate and literally true, so Jehu’s actions are more than history—they are divine instruction (Romans 15:4). - God commended Jehu: “You have done well in carrying out what is right in My eyes.” (2 Kings 10:30) Traits of Jehu’s Obedience Worth Imitating 1. Prompt Action • “I hurried and did not delay to keep Your commandments.” (Psalm 119:60) • Jehu moved the same day he was anointed (2 Kings 9:14-16). 2. Courage to Confront Evil • “Let love be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” (Romans 12:9) • Jehu faced Jezebel, Joram, and Ahaziah without flinching. 3. Zeal that Outpaced Personal Comfort • “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Romans 12:11) • He risked political backlash to uphold God’s honor. 4. Single-Minded Loyalty • “Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God?” (Galatians 1:10) • Jehu refused to be swayed by alliances or public opinion. 5. Thorough Follow-Through • “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” (James 1:22) • He finished the assignment, eliminating Baal worship (2 Kings 10:18-27). Practical Ways to Apply Jehu’s Example Today - Act quickly when Scripture gives a clear directive—don’t procrastinate. - Call sin what God calls it, even when culture excuses it. - Place God’s agenda above career, popularity, or comfort. - Evaluate loyalties—relationships and habits—through the lens of obedience. - Complete the tasks God entrusts; partial obedience is disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22). Supporting Passages for Personal Study - 1 Samuel 15:22 – Obedience preferred over sacrifice. - Matthew 6:33 – Seek first the kingdom of God. - Hebrews 10:36 – Endurance so that after doing God’s will we receive the promise. Key Takeaways - Jehu’s story urges believers to obey God immediately, courageously, wholeheartedly, and completely. - The same God who honored Jehu’s obedience still blesses those who “do His will from the heart” (Ephesians 6:6). |