2 Kings 9:5

and when he arrived, the army commanders were sitting there. "I have a message for you, commander," he said. "For which of us?" asked Jehu. "For you, commander," he replied.

Study Bible

and when he arrived
This phrase refers to the arrival of the young prophet sent by Elisha to anoint Jehu as king over Israel. The context is a time of political upheaval and divine judgment against the house of Ahab. The arrival signifies the beginning of a divinely orchestrated change in leadership.

the army commanders were sitting there
The army commanders were likely gathered in a strategic meeting, possibly discussing military campaigns against Aram. This setting underscores the military context of Jehu's anointing, highlighting his role as a military leader. The presence of multiple commanders indicates the importance of the message and the need for discretion.

“I have a message for you, commander,” he said
The young prophet's message is direct and urgent, reflecting the divine authority behind it. The term "commander" acknowledges Jehu's military rank and foreshadows his impending rise to kingship. This approach is consistent with prophetic traditions where messages from God are delivered with authority and purpose.

“For which of us?” asked Jehu
Jehu's question suggests a level of humility or perhaps caution, as he does not immediately assume the message is for him. It also indicates the presence of other commanders, emphasizing the need for clarity in the delivery of divine messages. This moment of inquiry sets the stage for the revelation of Jehu's divine appointment.

“For you, commander,” he replied
The prophet's response confirms Jehu as the recipient of God's message, marking him as the chosen instrument for executing divine judgment. This affirmation is pivotal, as it transitions Jehu from a military leader to a divinely appointed king. The repetition of "commander" reinforces Jehu's authority and the seriousness of his new mission.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
A commander in the army of Israel, Jehu is the central figure in this passage. He is about to be anointed as king over Israel, fulfilling God's judgment against the house of Ahab.

2. The Officers of the Army
These are the military leaders who are with Jehu. Their presence signifies the importance of the message and the authority Jehu holds.

3. The Messenger
A prophet sent by Elisha to deliver God's message to Jehu. His role is crucial as he brings divine instruction and anointing.

4. Ramoth-gilead
The location where the officers and Jehu are gathered. It is a strategic military site and a place of significant events in Israel's history.

5. Elisha
Though not directly mentioned in this verse, Elisha is the prophet who sends the messenger. His influence and obedience to God's command are pivotal in the unfolding events.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment and Obedience
Jehu's anointing as king was a divine appointment. Believers should seek to understand and obey God's calling in their lives, trusting His timing and purpose.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
The passage illustrates God's sovereignty in executing judgment. Christians are reminded of God's justice and the importance of aligning with His will.

The Role of Prophets and Messengers
The messenger's role emphasizes the importance of delivering God's word faithfully. Believers are called to be messengers of truth in their own contexts.

Leadership and Responsibility
Jehu's response to the message highlights the responsibility that comes with leadership. Christian leaders are encouraged to lead with integrity and accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehu's response to the messenger reflect his readiness to accept God's calling? How can we prepare ourselves to respond to God's call in our lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Jehu illustrate the theme of divine justice? How can we apply this understanding of justice in our daily interactions?

3. What can we learn from the role of the messenger in this passage about being faithful in delivering God's message? How can we apply this in sharing the Gospel?

4. How does the setting of Ramoth-gilead contribute to the significance of the events in this passage? What does this teach us about the importance of being in the right place at the right time?

5. How does Jehu's anointing connect to the broader account of God's plan for Israel? How can we see God's overarching plan in our own lives and history?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 19:16
This verse connects to the anointing of Jehu, as God had previously instructed Elijah to anoint Jehu as king over Israel, showing the continuity of God's plan.

2 Kings 9:6-10
These verses provide the continuation of the account, where Jehu is anointed and given the task to destroy the house of Ahab, fulfilling God's judgment.

2 Kings 10:30
This verse highlights God's approval of Jehu's actions in executing judgment on Ahab's house, showing the fulfillment of divine prophecy.