2 Kings 9:19

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."

Study Bible

So he sent out a second horseman
This phrase indicates a continuation of the narrative where the king of Israel, Joram, is attempting to ascertain the intentions of Jehu, who has been anointed by a prophet to become king. The sending of a second horseman suggests urgency and concern. In the ancient Near Eastern context, horsemen were often used as messengers due to their speed and ability to cover large distances quickly. The Hebrew root for "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) implies a deliberate action, emphasizing the king's proactive approach in seeking information. This reflects the tension and uncertainty in the royal court as Jehu's approach could signify either peace or conflict.

who went to them and said
The horseman acts as an intermediary, a common role in ancient times where direct communication was often impractical. The phrase underscores the importance of messengers in maintaining communication between parties. The Hebrew verb for "went" (בּוֹא, bo) conveys movement towards a destination, highlighting the horseman's duty to reach Jehu and deliver the king's message. This action is pivotal in the unfolding events, as it sets the stage for Jehu's response and the subsequent shift in power.

This is what the king says
This phrase introduces the authority of the message, as it comes directly from the king. In the ancient world, a king's word was law, and his messages carried significant weight. The phrase serves to remind the audience of the king's current authority, even as it is about to be challenged by Jehu. The Hebrew word for "says" (אָמַר, amar) is often used in the context of divine or royal pronouncements, underscoring the gravity of the inquiry.

Do you come in peace?
This question is central to the narrative, reflecting the king's concern over Jehu's intentions. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses not only the absence of conflict but also completeness, welfare, and harmony. The inquiry about peace is a common diplomatic question in the ancient Near East, used to gauge the intentions of approaching parties. This question is loaded with significance, as it not only seeks to determine Jehu's immediate intentions but also foreshadows the dramatic changes about to unfold in Israel's leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu
Anointed by God to be king over Israel, Jehu is a central figure in this passage. He is on a mission to fulfill God's judgment against the house of Ahab.

2. The King of Israel
At this time, Joram (also known as Jehoram) is the king of Israel. He is the son of Ahab and Jezebel, and his reign is marked by idolatry and evil in the sight of the Lord.

3. Horseman
The messengers sent by King Joram to inquire about Jehu's intentions. Their role is to seek peace, but they end up joining Jehu.

4. Jezreel
The location where these events unfold. It is significant as the place where Jehu will confront Joram and fulfill the prophecy against Ahab's house.

5. Prophetic Fulfillment
This event is part of the larger account of God's judgment against the house of Ahab, as prophesied by Elijah.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment and Obedience
Jehu's actions remind us of the importance of obeying God's call and fulfilling His purposes, even when it involves difficult tasks.

The Cost of Idolatry
The judgment on Ahab's house serves as a warning against idolatry and turning away from God. It highlights the consequences of leading others into sin.

Peace and Truth
The question "Have you come in peace?" and Jehu's response challenge us to consider the true nature of peace. True peace aligns with God's truth and righteousness.

Leadership and Influence
Jehu's ability to command the horsemen to follow him illustrates the power of leadership and influence. As Christians, we are called to lead others towards God's truth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jehu's response to the horseman reflect his understanding of his mission from God?

2. In what ways does the account of Jehu challenge us to confront sin and idolatry in our own lives?

3. How can we discern when to pursue peace and when to stand firm in truth, as Jehu did?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jehu's leadership style, and how can we apply them in our roles today?

5. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in this passage encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 19:16-17
This passage connects to the anointing of Jehu as king over Israel, as instructed by God to Elijah, setting the stage for the events in 2 Kings 9.

2 Kings 9:6-10
Provides the context of Jehu's anointing and the prophecy of judgment against Ahab's house, which Jehu is now executing.

2 Kings 9:22
Further elaborates on Jehu's mission and the confrontation with Joram, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment.