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 sets the scene for a pivotal moment in Israel's history. The arrival signifies the fulfillment of God's plan through His prophet. The Hebrew root for "arrived" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which often implies coming with purpose or intention. This arrival is not random but divinely orchestrated, reminding us of God's sovereignty and timing in the unfolding of His will.

the captains of the army
The captains represent the military leadership of Israel, gathered together, possibly discussing matters of state or military strategy. In the Hebrew context, "captains" (שָׂרֵי הַחַיִל, sarei hachayil) indicates leaders of valor and strength. Their presence underscores the importance of the message about to be delivered, as it concerns the leadership and direction of the nation.

were sitting together
This phrase suggests a moment of calm before the storm, a gathering of leaders in a state of readiness or deliberation. In ancient Near Eastern culture, sitting together often implied a council or meeting of significance. The unity of the captains here contrasts with the impending upheaval, highlighting the dramatic shift that Jehu's anointing will bring.

'I have a message for you, commander,'
The messenger's words are direct and urgent. The term "message" (דָּבָר, davar) in Hebrew can mean word, matter, or thing, often carrying the weight of divine communication. The use of "commander" (שָׂר, sar) acknowledges Jehu's authority and role, setting the stage for his divine appointment as king. This moment reflects the biblical theme of God choosing and speaking to individuals for His purposes.

'For which one of us?' asked Jehu
Jehu's question reveals his awareness of the significance of the message. It shows his readiness to respond to God's call, even if he does not yet know its full implications. His inquiry also highlights the personal nature of God's call, which often singles out individuals for specific tasks.

'For you, commander,' he replied
The reply confirms Jehu as the chosen instrument of God's plan. The repetition of "commander" emphasizes his role and the authority being conferred upon him. This moment marks the beginning of Jehu's divinely appointed mission to eradicate the house of Ahab, fulfilling the prophecy given to Elijah. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His word and His ability to raise leaders according to His purpose.

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.