2 Kings 9:12

"That is a lie!" they said. "Tell us now!" So Jehu answered, "He talked to me about this and that, and he said, 'This is what the LORD says: I anoint you king over Israel.'"

Study Bible

It is a lie!” they said
This phrase captures the skepticism and disbelief of Jehu's companions. The Hebrew word for "lie" here is "שֶׁקֶר" (sheqer), which often denotes falsehood or deception. In the context of ancient Israel, where prophetic words were taken seriously, the immediate reaction of disbelief suggests the gravity and unexpected nature of the message. It reflects a common human tendency to doubt extraordinary claims, especially those that disrupt the status quo.

“Tell us now!”
The urgency in this demand highlights the intense curiosity and perhaps anxiety among Jehu's men. The Hebrew verb "נָא" (na) is often used to express a plea or request, indicating that the men were eager to hear the truth. This urgency underscores the importance of prophetic messages in guiding the political and spiritual direction of Israel. It also reflects the tension and anticipation surrounding the divine appointment of leadership.

So he answered
Jehu's response marks a pivotal moment of revelation. The Hebrew root "עָנָה" (anah) means to answer or respond, often implying a thoughtful or deliberate reply. Jehu's willingness to disclose the message suggests his acceptance of the divine mandate and his readiness to embrace the role assigned to him by God. This moment of revelation is crucial in the unfolding narrative of Israel's history.

“He spoke to me like this
This phrase introduces the direct communication from the prophet, emphasizing the personal and authoritative nature of the message. The Hebrew verb "דָּבַר" (dabar) means to speak or declare, often used in contexts where God communicates His will. The phrase underscores the prophetic tradition in Israel, where God’s messages were delivered through chosen individuals, affirming the divine origin and authority of the proclamation.

‘This is what the LORD says
The formulaic introduction "כֹּה אָמַר יְהוָה" (koh amar Yahweh) is a common prophetic declaration, asserting that the following words are not human but divine. This phrase establishes the authority and authenticity of the message, reminding the audience that the ultimate source is God Himself. It reflects the centrality of divine guidance in the governance and spiritual life of Israel.

I anoint you king over Israel.’”
The act of anointing, "מָשַׁח" (mashach), is a significant ritual in the Hebrew tradition, symbolizing the consecration and empowerment of an individual for a divine purpose. In this context, it signifies God's choice and empowerment of Jehu as king. The anointing marks a new chapter in Israel's history, where Jehu is divinely appointed to lead and bring about God's justice. This act underscores the belief in divine sovereignty over human affairs, where God raises leaders according to His will and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
A commander in the army of Israel, chosen by God to become king and tasked with eradicating the house of Ahab.

2. Prophet's Messenger
A young prophet sent by Elisha to anoint Jehu as king over Israel.

3. Israel
The northern kingdom, where Jehu was anointed to rule.

4. House of Ahab
The ruling dynasty in Israel, known for its idolatry and wickedness, which Jehu was commanded to destroy.

5. Elisha
The prophet who directed the anointing of Jehu, continuing the work of his predecessor, Elijah.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment
God chooses leaders according to His purpose, often in unexpected ways. Jehu's anointing reminds us of God's sovereignty in leadership.

Obedience to God's Call
Jehu's acceptance of his anointing challenges us to respond obediently to God's calling in our lives, even when it involves difficult tasks.

Judgment and Justice
The anointing of Jehu signifies God's judgment on the house of Ahab, illustrating that God will not tolerate persistent sin and idolatry.

Truth and Integrity
Jehu's initial reluctance to disclose the message highlights the importance of truthfulness and integrity in our communication.

Fulfillment of Prophecy
The fulfillment of God's word through Jehu's anointing encourages us to trust in the reliability and certainty of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehu's anointing as king reflect God's sovereignty in choosing leaders, and how can this understanding influence our view of current leadership?

2. In what ways does Jehu's response to his anointing challenge us to be obedient to God's calling in our own lives?

3. How does the judgment on the house of Ahab serve as a warning against idolatry and sin in our personal and communal lives?

4. What can we learn from Jehu's initial reluctance to share the prophet's message about the importance of truth and integrity?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jehu's account encourage us to trust in God's promises, and what other biblical examples reinforce this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 19:16
This verse foretells the anointing of Jehu as king over Israel, showing the fulfillment of God's plan.

2 Kings 9:6-10
Provides the context of Jehu's anointing and the prophecy against the house of Ahab.

1 Samuel 16:13
The anointing of David as king, drawing a parallel to Jehu's anointing and God's sovereign choice.

Romans 13:1
Discusses the authority of rulers as instituted by God, relevant to Jehu's divine appointment.

Hosea 1:4
References the bloodshed of Jezreel, connecting to Jehu's actions and their long-term implications.