How does Jehu's driving reflect his zeal for God's mission in 2 Kings 9:20? Setting the Scene — Elisha’s servant anoints Jehu at Ramoth-gilead (2 Kings 9:1-7). — The LORD’s charge: “You are to destroy the house of Ahab your master” (v. 7). — Jehu immediately mounts his chariot and heads for Jezreel, where Joram and Ahaziah are recovering from battle wounds (vv. 14-16). The Key Verse 2 Kings 9:20: “The watchman reported, ‘He has reached them, but he is not coming back either. And the driving is like that of Jehu son of Nimshi—he drives like a madman.’ ” What the Furious Driving Shows • Single-minded focus—Jehu wastes no time shaping plans; he moves straight toward the target city. • Uncompromising obedience—his reckless pace signals full acceptance of God’s commission, with no hesitation or fear. • Holy urgency—evil reigning in Israel (Ahab’s dynasty and Jezebel) must be judged now, not later (cf. Romans 13:11). • Visible zeal—his style is so distinctive that soldiers on the wall immediately identify him; passion for God’s mission cannot stay hidden. Zeal Confirmed by Later Deeds — 2 Kings 9:24-26: Joram is executed exactly as prophesied. — 2 Kings 9:30-37: Jezebel is judged, fulfilling Elijah’s earlier word (1 Kings 21:23). — 2 Kings 10:16: Jehu himself says, “Come with me and see my zeal for the LORD!”—linking his furious ride with his ongoing actions. Biblical Parallels • Phinehas ran with a spear to stop idolatry—“he was zealous for My honor” (Numbers 25:11). • Jesus cleared the temple—“Zeal for Your house will consume Me” (John 2:17; Psalm 69:9). • Paul exhorts believers to be “fervent in spirit, serving the Lord” (Romans 12:11). Takeaways for Today — Genuine zeal shows in concrete, observable action, not in words alone. — Swift obedience reflects trust in God’s Word; delay often reveals doubt. — Courageous momentum, when anchored in Scripture, advances God’s purposes despite opposition. |
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