King Jehu Part 1

A Divine Coup: Lessons from an Overlooked Biblical Hero

In the annals of biblical history, there are figures who often slip through the cracks of our collective memory. One such figure is Jehu, a man whose story is as captivating as it is challenging. His tale, found in 2 Kings, offers a powerful narrative of divine justice, unwavering obedience, and the consequences of wickedness.

Imagine a nation led by the most corrupt rulers in its history - King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. For 22 long years, they reigned with unparalleled wickedness, promoting idolatry and persecuting God's prophets. It was in this dark era that Jehu, a military commander, rose through the ranks, patiently biding his time as he witnessed the moral decay around him.

Jehu's story begins with a dramatic anointing. A young prophet, sent by Elisha, arrives breathlessly at Ramoth Gilead. In a scene reminiscent of Samuel anointing David, the prophet pulls Jehu aside and pours oil on his head, declaring, "Thus says the Lord, I anoint you king over Israel." But this is no ordinary coronation. With the oil still glistening on Jehu's head, the prophet delivers a divine mandate: to strike down the house of Ahab and avenge the blood of God's servants.

What follows is a whirlwind of action that reads like a thrilling military operation. Jehu, empowered by the Holy Spirit, wastes no time. He rallies his men, ensuring secrecy, and races towards Jezreel where King Joram (Ahab's son) is recuperating from battle wounds. The watchman's cry of an approaching company sets the stage for a confrontation that would change the course of Israel's history.

As Jehu's chariot thunders towards the city, two messengers are sent to inquire about his intentions. With each encounter, Jehu's response grows more ominous: "What do you have to do with peace? Turn around and ride behind me." The tension builds until finally, Jehu meets Joram face to face.

In a moment of divine retribution, Jehu declares, "What peace can there be, so long as the whorings and sorceries of your mother Jezebel are so many?" With unerring accuracy, he strikes Joram down, fulfilling the prophecy spoken against Ahab years before. The body is thrown on the very plot of land that Jezebel had stolen from Naboth - a poignant reminder that God's justice, though sometimes delayed, is always certain.

But Jehu's mission isn't over. He pursues and strikes down Ahaziah, king of Judah, who had allied himself with this wicked dynasty. In a single day, two kingdoms are shaken, and the stage is set for a purging of idolatry from the land.

This account is more than just a historical narrative; it's a powerful reminder of several spiritual truths:

1. God's patience has limits: For years, the wickedness of Ahab and Jezebel seemed to go unchecked. But God was not idle. He was preparing a man - Jehu - to be His instrument of judgment. This should both comfort and challenge us. While God is merciful, He will not tolerate sin forever.

2. Obedience requires courage: Jehu's response to his anointing was immediate and unwavering. Despite the enormous risk, he embraced God's call without hesitation. How often do we shrink back from what God is asking of us because it seems too difficult or dangerous?

3. God uses unlikely people: Jehu wasn't royalty. He was a military man who rose through the ranks on merit. God saw in him the qualities needed for this monumental task. This reminds us that God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

4. Knowledge of God's Word is crucial: Jehu's familiarity with prophecy enabled him to act decisively. He knew the words spoken against Ahab's house and ensured they were fulfilled to the letter. How well do we know God's Word, and are we ready to act on it?

5. True leadership inspires loyalty: When Jehu revealed his anointing, his men immediately rallied behind him. His years of faithful service had earned him their trust and respect. Are we living in a way that inspires others to follow us as we follow Christ?

The story of Jehu challenges us to examine our own lives. Are we cultivating the qualities that made him an effective instrument in God's hands? Do we have the patience to wait for God's timing, even in the face of wickedness? Are we building a reputation of integrity and excellence in our spheres of influence? And most importantly, are we ready and willing to go "all in" when God calls us to action?

In a world that often feels as morally bankrupt as Israel under Ahab and Jezebel, we need modern-day Jehus - men and women of courage, conviction, and unwavering obedience to God. People who are willing to stand against the tide of cultural decay and be instruments of divine justice and renewal.

This doesn't mean we're all called to lead national revolutions. But in our families, workplaces, and communities, we can embody the same spirit of faithfulness and boldness that characterized Jehu. We can be people who know God's Word, who are patient yet ready for action, who lead by example, and who are willing to risk everything for the sake of God's kingdom.

The account of Jehu reminds us that God is actively working in history, even when it's not immediately apparent. It challenges us to trust in His timing and to be ready when He calls. It invites us to examine our hearts and ask: Are we truly all in for God? Are we willing to be used by Him, regardless of the cost?

As we reflect on this powerful narrative, may we be inspired to cultivate the qualities that made Jehu an effective instrument in God's hands. May we grow in our knowledge of God's Word, in our patience to wait for His timing, and in our courage to act decisively when He calls. And may we, like Jehu, be found faithful when our moment comes to stand for God's justice and righteousness in a world desperately in need of both.

(This blog was creating from Bruce Ausink's original sermon using pulpit.ai)