2 Kings 10:12-17

Why must Jehu’s claim of zeal be read with the rest of his story?

Berean Standard Bible

12 Then Jehu set out toward Samaria. At Beth-eked of the Shepherds, 13 Jehu met some relatives of Ahaziah king of Judah and asked, “Who are you?” “We are relatives of Ahaziah,” they answered, “and we have come down to greet the sons of the king and of the queen mother.” 14 Then Jehu ordered, “Take them alive.” So his men took them alive, then slaughtered them at the well of Beth-eked—forty-two men. He spared none of them. 15 When he left there, he found Jehonadab son of Rechab, who was coming to meet him. Jehu greeted him and asked, “Is your heart as true to mine as my heart is to yours?” “It is!” Jehonadab replied. “If it is,” said Jehu, “give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and Jehu helped him into his chariot, 16 saying, “Come with me and see my zeal for the LORD!” So he had him ride in his chariot. 17 When Jehu came to Samaria, he struck down everyone belonging to Ahab who remained there, until he had destroyed them, according to the word that the LORD had spoken to Elijah.

What is the context?

On the way to Samaria, Jehu meets forty-two relatives of Ahaziah who are traveling to greet members of the royal households. He has them seized alive and then killed, sparing none.

He next meets Jehonadab son of Rechab and asks whether their hearts are aligned. After receiving his hand, Jehu brings him into the chariot and invites him to witness his zeal for the Lord.

At Samaria he destroys the remaining members of Ahab’s house. The narrator connects this destruction with Elijah’s word, but Jehu’s own claim of zeal is not the end of the book’s assessment of him.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley understands Jehonadab as approving Jehu’s action against Ahab’s house. Yet Hosea 1:4 later announces judgment on Jehu’s house for the bloodshed of Jezreel. Wesley’s Hosea notes discuss both the slaughter and the dynasty’s continuing idolatry. These passages require attention together; Jehu’s usefulness in judgment cannot become blanket approval of all his violence.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

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