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2 Kings 9

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‹ Chapter 8 2 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 10 ›

1 Now Elisha the prophet summoned one of the sons of the prophets and said to him, “Tuck your cloak under your belt, take this flask of oil, and go to Ramoth-gilead. 2 When you arrive, look for Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi. Go in, get him away from his companions, and take him to an inner room. 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!" 4 So the young prophet went to Ramoth-gilead, 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. 6 So Jehu got up and went into the house, where the young prophet poured the oil on his head and declared, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anoint you king over the LORD’s people Israel. 7 And you are to strike down the house of your master Ahab, so that I may avenge the blood of My servants the prophets and the blood of all the servants of the LORD shed by the hand of Jezebel. 8 The whole house of Ahab will perish, and I will cut off from Ahab every male, both slave and free, in Israel. 9 I will make the house of Ahab like the houses of Jeroboam son of Nebat and Baasha son of Ahijah. 10 And on the plot of ground at Jezreel the dogs will devour Jezebel, and there will be no one to bury her.’” Then the young prophet opened the door and ran. 11 When Jehu went out to the servants of his master, they asked, “Is everything all right? Why did this madman come to you?” “You know his kind and their babble,” he replied. 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.’" 13 Quickly, each man took his garment and put it under Jehu on the bare steps. Then they blew the ram’s horn and proclaimed, “Jehu is king!" 14 Thus Jehu son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi, conspired against Joram. (Now Joram and all Israel had been defending Ramoth-gilead against Hazael king of Aram, 15 but King Joram had returned to Jezreel to recover from the wounds he had suffered at the hands of the Arameans in the battle against Hazael their king.) So Jehu said, “If you commanders wish to make me king, then do not let anyone escape from the city to go and tell it in Jezreel." 16 Then Jehu got into his chariot and went to Jezreel, because Joram was laid up there and Ahaziah king of Judah had gone down to see him. 17 Now the watchman standing on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu’s troops approaching, and he called out, “I see a company of troops!” “Choose a rider,” Joram commanded. “Send him out to meet them and ask, ‘Have you come in peace?’" 18 So a horseman rode off to meet Jehu and said, “This is what the king asks: ‘Have you come in peace?’” “What do you know about peace?” Jehu replied. “Fall in behind me.” And the watchman reported, “The messenger reached them, but he is not coming back." 19 So the king sent out a second horseman, who went to them and said, “This is what the king asks: ‘Have you come in peace?’” “What do you know about peace?” Jehu replied. “Fall in behind me." 20 Again the watchman reported, “He reached them, but he is not coming back. And the charioteer is driving like Jehu son of Nimshi —he is driving like a madman!" 21 “Harness!” Joram shouted, and they harnessed his chariot. Then Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah set out, each in his own chariot, and met Jehu on the property of Naboth the Jezreelite. 22 When Joram saw Jehu, he asked, “Have you come in peace, Jehu?” “How can there be peace,” he replied, “as long as the idolatry and witchcraft of your mother Jezebel abound?" 23 Joram turned around and fled, calling out to Ahaziah, “Treachery, Ahaziah!" 24 Then Jehu drew his bow and shot Joram between the shoulders. The arrow pierced his heart, and he slumped down in his chariot. 25 And Jehu said to Bidkar his officer, “Pick him up and throw him into the field of Naboth the Jezreelite. For remember that when you and I were riding together behind his father Ahab, the LORD lifted up this burden against him: 26 ‘As surely as I saw the blood of Naboth and the blood of his sons yesterday, declares the LORD, so will I repay you on this plot of ground, declares the LORD.’ Now then, according to the word of the LORD, pick him up and throw him on the plot of ground." 27 When King Ahaziah of Judah saw this, he fled up the road toward Beth-haggan. And Jehu pursued him, shouting, “Shoot him too!” So they shot Ahaziah in his chariot on the Ascent of Gur, near Ibleam, and he fled to Megiddo and died there. 28 Then his servants carried him by chariot to Jerusalem and buried him with his fathers in his tomb in the City of David. 29 (In the eleventh year of Joram son of Ahab, Ahaziah had become king over Judah.) 30 Now when Jehu arrived in Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it. So she painted her eyes, adorned her head, and looked down from a window. 31 And as Jehu entered the gate, she asked, “Have you come in peace, O Zimri, murderer of your master?" 32 He looked up at the window and called out, “Who is on my side? Who?” And two or three eunuchs looked down at him. 33 “Throw her down!” yelled Jehu. So they threw her down, and her blood splattered on the wall and on the horses as they trampled her underfoot. 34 Then Jehu went in and ate and drank. “Take care of this cursed woman,” he said, “and bury her, for she was the daughter of a king." 35 But when they went out to bury her, they found nothing but her skull, her feet, and the palms of her hands. 36 So they went back and told Jehu, who replied, “This is the word of the LORD, which He spoke through His servant Elijah the Tishbite: ‘On the plot of ground at Jezreel the dogs will devour the flesh of Jezebel. 37 And Jezebel’s body will lie like dung in the field on the plot of ground at Jezreel, so that no one can say: This is Jezebel.’ “

‹ Chapter 8 2 Kings — All Chapters Chapter 10 ›

Study Notes — 2 Kings 9

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Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending a young prophet to anoint Jehu, the son of Jehoshaphat, as king of Israel, with instructions to strike down the house of Ahab (2 Kings 9:1-3). Jehu is hesitant at first, but after being anointed, he sets out to fulfill the prophecy, killing King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, who were both descendants of Ahab (2 Kings 9:14-26). The chapter also tells the story of the death of Jezebel, who is thrown out of a window and trampled by horses (2 Kings 9:30-37). Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty and justice are on display, as He brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the kings of Israel and Judah, and it fits into the story of God's dealings with His people. The chapter is also connected to the larger themes of the Old Testament, including the importance of obedience, the consequences of rebellion, and the sovereignty of God. In the context of the book of 2 Kings, this chapter is a turning point in the story of the kings of Israel, as God begins to bring judgment on the house of Ahab and to raise up new leaders who will follow Him.

Heart Application

As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of obedience to God's commands. We are also warned of the consequences of rebellion against Him. As we consider our own lives and our own relationship with God, we are called to examine our hearts and to seek to follow Him with faithfulness and courage.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of the anointing of Jehu as king of Israel and his actions to fulfill the prophecy of God's judgment on the house of Ahab. It highlights God's sovereignty and justice in dealing with those who rebel against Him. In 2 Kings 9:7, we see God's desire for justice and vengeance on those who have rebelled against Him. The chapter is a call to obedience and a warning of the consequences of rebellion against God.

Voices from the Church

“The anointing of Jehu is a remarkable instance of the sovereignty of God in the selection of His servants. It teaches us that God can raise up leaders from the most unlikely places, and that He can use even the most imperfect instruments to accomplish His purposes.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The death of Jezebel is a striking example of the judgment of God on those who rebel against Him. It shows us that God will not tolerate wickedness in those who claim to follow Him, and that He will bring punishment on those who refuse to repent.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. The Anointing of Jehu (2 Kings 9:1-13) — The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending a young prophet to anoint Jehu as king of Israel, with instructions to strike down the house of Ahab.
  2. The Death of King Joram (2 Kings 9:14-26) — Jehu sets out to fulfill the prophecy, killing King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, who were both descendants of Ahab.
  3. The Death of Jezebel (2 Kings 9:30-37) — The chapter also tells the story of the death of Jezebel, who is thrown out of a window and trampled by horses.
  4. The Judgment on the House of Ahab (2 Kings 9:1-37) — Throughout the chapter, God's sovereignty and justice are on display, as He brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him.
  5. The Fulfillment of Prophecy (2 Kings 9:1-37) — The chapter is a fulfillment of the prophecy given to Elijah in 1 Kings 21:20-24, and it highlights God's faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to justice and righteousness.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, including the selection of leaders and the outcome of events. In 2 Kings 9:1-3, we see God's sovereignty on display as He orchestrates the anointing of Jehu.
The Importance of Obedience
The chapter also highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. In 2 Kings 9:7, we see the consequences of disobedience and the importance of following God's instructions.
The Consequences of Rebellion
The chapter shows the consequences of rebellion against God, as the house of Ahab is brought to judgment and faces the full force of God's wrath. In 2 Kings 9:30-37, we see the death of Jezebel as a consequence of her rebellion against God.
The Faithfulness of God
The chapter is also a testament to the faithfulness of God, as He fulfills His promises and brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him. In 2 Kings 9:1-37, we see God's faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to justice and righteousness.

Lessons from 2 Kings 9

  1. The Importance of Faithfulness — The chapter teaches us the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of rebellion against Him.
  2. The Sovereignty of God — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the selection of leaders and the outcome of events.
  3. The Faithfulness of God — The chapter is a testament to the faithfulness of God, as He fulfills His promises and brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him.
  4. The Consequences of Rebellion — The chapter shows the consequences of rebellion against God, as the house of Ahab is brought to judgment and faces the full force of God's wrath.
  5. The Call to Obedience — The chapter is a call to obedience, as we are reminded of the importance of following God's commands and the consequences of disobedience.

Themes from 2 Kings 9

  1. God's Sovereignty — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the selection of leaders and the outcome of events.
  2. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter teaches us the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of rebellion against Him.
  3. The Consequences of Rebellion — The chapter shows the consequences of rebellion against God, as the house of Ahab is brought to judgment and faces the full force of God's wrath.
  4. The Faithfulness of God — The chapter is a testament to the faithfulness of God, as He fulfills His promises and brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him.
  5. The Call to Repentance — The chapter is a call to repentance, as we are reminded of the importance of following God's commands and the consequences of disobedience.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does the anointing of Jehu teach us about God's sovereignty in the selection of leaders?
  2. How does the death of Jezebel serve as a warning to those who rebel against God?
  3. What does the chapter teach us about the importance of obedience to God's commands?
  4. How does the chapter highlight God's faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to justice and righteousness?
  5. What are the consequences of rebellion against God, and how are they illustrated in the chapter?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. The Anointing of Jehu (2 Kings 9:1-13)

9:1 The prophet Elisha sends a young prophet to anoint Jehu as king of Israel, with instructions to strike down the house of Ahab.
9:2 The young prophet is told to anoint Jehu in private, and then to flee without delay.
9:3 The young prophet anoints Jehu, and then flees, leaving Jehu to fulfill the prophecy.

2. The Death of King Joram (2 Kings 9:14-26)

9:14 Jehu sets out to fulfill the prophecy, killing King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, who were both descendants of Ahab.
9:15 Jehu is met by the officers of King Joram, who are unaware of the prophecy and the anointing of Jehu.
9:16 Jehu tells the officers that he has a message from God, and that they must follow him if they want to live.

3. The Death of Jezebel (2 Kings 9:30-37)

9:30 Jezebel is told of the death of her son, and she prepares to meet her own death with dignity.
9:31 Jezebel is thrown out of a window and trampled by horses, fulfilling the prophecy of Elijah.
9:32 Jehu is met by the eunuchs of Jezebel, who are unaware of her death and the prophecy.

4. The Judgment on the House of Ahab (2 Kings 9:1-37)

9:1 The chapter begins with the prophet Elisha sending a young prophet to anoint Jehu as king of Israel, with instructions to strike down the house of Ahab.
9:7 The young prophet anoints Jehu, and then flees, leaving Jehu to fulfill the prophecy.
9:10 Jehu sets out to fulfill the prophecy, killing King Joram of Israel and King Ahaziah of Judah, who were both descendants of Ahab.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the anointing of Jehu?

The anointing of Jehu is significant because it highlights God's sovereignty in the selection of leaders and the fulfillment of prophecy. In 2 Kings 9:1-3, we see God's sovereignty on display as He orchestrates the anointing of Jehu.

Why is the death of Jezebel important?

The death of Jezebel is important because it fulfills the prophecy of Elijah and serves as a warning to those who rebel against God. In 2 Kings 9:30-37, we see the death of Jezebel as a consequence of her rebellion against God.

What does the chapter teach us about the consequences of rebellion against God?

The chapter teaches us that rebellion against God will be met with judgment and punishment. In 2 Kings 9:1-37, we see the consequences of rebellion against God, as the house of Ahab is brought to judgment and faces the full force of God's wrath.

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 2 Kings 9:1 → 1 Kings 19:16 The anointing of Jehu is a fulfillment of the prophecy given to Elijah in 1 Kings 19:16.
2 2 Kings 9:7 → 1 Kings 21:20-24 The prophecy given to Jehu is a fulfillment of the prophecy given to Elijah in 1 Kings 21:20-24.
3 2 Kings 9:10 → 2 Kings 8:3 The death of Jezebel is a fulfillment of the prophecy given in 2 Kings 8:3.
4 2 Kings 9:14 → 2 Chronicles 22:7 The death of King Joram is a fulfillment of the prophecy given in 2 Chronicles 22:7.
5 2 Kings 9:30 → Proverbs 29:1 The death of Jezebel is an example of the consequences of rebellion against God, as described in Proverbs 29:1.
6 2 Kings 9:1 → Isaiah 55:11 The anointing of Jehu is an example of God's sovereignty in the selection of leaders, as described in Isaiah 55:11.
7 2 Kings 9:7 → Romans 11:22 The prophecy given to Jehu is a reminder of God's justice and righteousness, as described in Romans 11:22.
8 2 Kings 9:10 → Hebrews 10:30 The death of King Joram is an example of God's judgment on those who rebel against Him, as described in Hebrews 10:30.
9 2 Kings 9:30 → Matthew 23:35 The death of Jezebel is an example of the consequences of rebellion against God, as described in Matthew 23:35.
10 2 Kings 9:1 → Acts 13:22 The anointing of Jehu is an example of God's sovereignty in the selection of leaders, as described in Acts 13:22.

Sermons on 2 Kings 9

SermonDescription
R.G. Lee Payday Someday by R.G. Lee In this sermon, the preacher describes a man who is in desperate need of rescue. The man is trapped in a pit of his own making, and his body is trembling and convulsing. The preach
Zac Poonen (Through the Bible) 2 Kings by Zac Poonen This sermon delves into the stories and lessons from the 2nd book of Kings, highlighting the different kings who ruled Israel and Judah, the consequences of their actions, the impo
F.B. Meyer Naboth's Vineyard by F.B. Meyer F.B. Meyer explores the tragic story of Naboth's Vineyard, where King Ahab's greed leads to the wrongful execution of Naboth, who refuses to sell his ancestral land. Ahab's despair
F.B. Meyer Is It Peace, Jehu? and He Answered, by F.B. Meyer F.B. Meyer explores the concept of true peace, emphasizing that it cannot exist alongside the distractions and sins represented by Jezebel in our lives. He warns against the superf
Denis Lyle The Importance of Delegating Responsibility by Denis Lyle Denis Lyle preaches on the importance of delegating responsibility, emphasizing the challenges faced by those in positions of authority who struggle to delegate tasks. Drawing from

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Kings 9

In this chapter, we see the fulfillment of the prophecy given to Elijah, as Jehu is anointed king of Israel and sets out to destroy the house of Ahab. The chapter is a testament to the faithfulness of God, as He fulfills His promises and brings judgment on those who have rebelled against Him. As Matthew Henry notes, 'the Lord is known by the judgments which he executes' (Psalm 9:16), and this chapter is a striking example of God's justice and righteousness. The story of Jehu and the house of Ahab is a reminder of the importance of obedience to God's commands, and the consequences of rebellion against Him. As we read this chapter, we are called to examine our own hearts and to seek to follow God with faithfulness and courage. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

God's Sovereignty

One of the most striking aspects of the chapter is the way in which God's sovereignty is on display. From the anointing of Jehu to the death of Jezebel, God is the one who is orchestrating the events of the story.

The Importance of Obedience

The chapter also highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands. Jehu is given a specific task to fulfill, and he is expected to carry it out with faithfulness and courage.

The Consequences of Rebellion

The chapter also shows the consequences of rebellion against God. The house of Ahab is brought to judgment, and they face the full force of God's wrath.

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