What lessons from Jehu's actions can we apply to our spiritual leadership? Setting the Stage 2 Kings 10:34: “As for the rest of the acts of Jehu, all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the Book of the Chronicles of the Kings of Israel?” Jehu’s story is one of dramatic zeal, sweeping reforms, and a sobering reminder that a strong start must be matched by a faithful finish. The Good: Zeal for God’s Cause • Jehu answered God’s call (1 Kings 19:16; 2 Kings 9:6-7). • He removed Baal worship—“Thus Jehu eradicated Baal from Israel” (2 Kings 10:28). • God commended his obedience: “Because you have done well… four generations of your sons will sit on the throne of Israel” (2 Kings 10:30). Lessons for leaders – Courage to act decisively when God’s Word is clear. – Use God-given authority to confront idolatry and protect true worship. – Expect God to honor earnest obedience (Galatians 6:9). The Warning: Partial Obedience • “Jehu did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam… the golden calves at Bethel and Dan” (2 Kings 10:29). • “Jehu was not careful to walk in the law of the LORD… with all his heart” (2 Kings 10:31). Lessons for leaders – Selective obedience leaves footholds for sin. – Compare Saul’s failure: “Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). – God desires leaders whose hearts, not just their actions, are wholly His. The Call: Finishing Well • Jehu’s achievements are summarized in 2 Kings 10:34, yet his legacy is mixed because he stopped short of full devotion. • Paul’s testimony models the goal: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). • “Let us run with endurance the race set out for us” (Hebrews 12:1). Lessons for leaders – A blazing start must be matched by steady perseverance. – Regular self-examination guards against drift (1 Corinthians 10:12). – Accountability and humility help sustain long-term faithfulness. Pointing Forward to Christ • Jehu’s imperfect justice anticipates the perfect, righteous reign of Jesus (Revelation 19:11-16). • Where Jehu purged idols outwardly, Christ cleanses hearts inwardly by the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). • Leadership finds its true north in following the Servant-King who fulfills the law flawlessly. Practical Steps for Spiritual Leaders Today – Seek God’s direction before every initiative; let Scripture shape plans. – Obey completely, not selectively; refuse small compromises. – Guard personal worship; eliminate hidden “golden calves.” – Lead with both zeal and humility, remembering “the weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world” (2 Corinthians 10:4). – Build structures of accountability to help finish well. – Keep Christ central—He alone empowers lasting, God-honoring leadership. |
    |