2 Kings 9:3

Then take the flask of oil, pour it on his head, and declare, 'This is what the LORD says: I anoint you king over Israel.' Then open the door and run. Do not delay!"

Study Bible

Then take the flask of oil
In ancient Israel, anointing with oil was a significant ritual symbolizing the consecration and empowerment of individuals for a specific role or task. The use of a flask indicates a deliberate and prepared act, emphasizing the importance of the mission. Anointing with oil is a recurring biblical theme, seen in the anointing of priests (Exodus 30:30) and kings (1 Samuel 16:13).

pour it on his head
The act of pouring oil on the head signifies the transfer of God's Spirit and authority. This physical act represents a spiritual reality, marking the individual as chosen by God. In the case of Jehu, it signifies his divine appointment as king, similar to the anointing of David by Samuel.

and declare, ‘This is what the LORD says:
The phrase underscores the prophetic nature of the act. The anointing is not merely a human decision but a divine mandate. Prophets often prefaced their messages with "This is what the LORD says," affirming that they spoke with God's authority (e.g., Jeremiah 1:4).

I anoint you king over Israel.’
This declaration fulfills God's promise and judgment against the house of Ahab, as prophesied by Elijah (1 Kings 21:21-24). Jehu's anointing is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking a shift in leadership and the execution of divine justice.

Then open the door and run.
The instruction to open the door and run indicates the urgency and potential danger of the mission. Anointing a new king could incite political unrest or retaliation from the current regime. The prophet's quick departure ensures his safety and underscores the clandestine nature of the act.

Do not delay!”
The command to not delay highlights the immediacy and importance of the task. It reflects the urgency of God's plan and the need for swift obedience. This mirrors other biblical instances where prompt action is required to fulfill God's purposes (e.g., Genesis 19:15-17).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha the Prophet
A major prophet in Israel who succeeded Elijah. He is known for performing miracles and delivering God's messages.

2. Jehu
A commander in the army of Israel who is anointed as king over Israel by the instruction of God through Elisha's messenger.

3. Ramoth-gilead
A city in the territory of Gad, east of the Jordan River, where Jehu was stationed when he received the anointing.

4. The Young Prophet
A disciple of Elisha sent to anoint Jehu as king, demonstrating the continuation of prophetic ministry.

5. Anointing with Oil
A symbolic act representing God's choice and empowerment for leadership, often used in the Old Testament for kings and priests.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
God chooses leaders according to His purposes, often in unexpected ways. Trust in His divine plan even when it seems unconventional.

The Role of Obedience
The young prophet's obedience to Elisha's instructions highlights the importance of following God's commands promptly and faithfully.

Symbolism of Anointing
Anointing with oil signifies God's empowerment and setting apart for a specific purpose. Reflect on how God has anointed each believer for His service.

Urgency in God's Commands
The instruction to "run" and "not delay" emphasizes the urgency and importance of God's mission. Consider the urgency in fulfilling God's call in your life.

Prophetic Fulfillment
The anointing of Jehu fulfills earlier prophecies, showing that God's word is reliable and will come to pass. Trust in the fulfillment of God's promises.

Bible Study Questions

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

2. In what ways does the young prophet's obedience to Elisha's instructions challenge us in our own obedience to God's commands?

3. What is the significance of anointing with oil in the Bible, and how does it relate to the anointing of believers today?

4. Why do you think there was an urgency in the young prophet's mission, and how can we apply a sense of urgency to our spiritual lives?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Jehu's anointing encourage us to trust in the promises of God found in Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16:13
The anointing of David by Samuel, which parallels the anointing of Jehu, showing God's sovereign choice in leadership.

1 Kings 19:16
Elijah's command to anoint Jehu as king, which Elisha fulfills, demonstrating the continuity of God's plan.

Psalm 23:5
The imagery of anointing with oil as a sign of blessing and favor, reflecting God's provision and protection.

Isaiah 61:1
The anointing of the Messiah, which foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's anointing in Jesus Christ.