2 Chronicles 19:2

Jehu son of Hanani the seer went out to confront him and said to King Jehoshaphat, "Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the LORD? Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you.

Study Bible

Then Jehu son of Hanani the seer
Jehu, the son of Hanani, is identified as a seer, a term used in the Old Testament to describe a prophet or one who receives divine insight. The Hebrew root for "seer" is "ro'eh," which implies one who sees visions or has the ability to perceive spiritual truths. Jehu's lineage is significant; his father, Hanani, was also a prophet who had previously rebuked King Asa of Judah (2 Chronicles 16:7-10). This continuity of prophetic ministry within a family underscores the importance of spiritual heritage and the role of prophets in guiding and correcting the kings of Israel and Judah.

went out to meet him
The action of going out to meet King Jehoshaphat indicates a proactive approach by Jehu. Prophets often took the initiative to confront leaders, demonstrating courage and obedience to God's call. This phrase suggests a divine appointment, where Jehu is compelled by God to deliver a message. The historical context reveals that prophets were often seen as God's messengers, tasked with delivering both warnings and encouragements to the people and their leaders.

and said to King Jehoshaphat
Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, is the recipient of Jehu's message. His reign is noted for religious reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. However, his alliances with the northern kingdom of Israel, particularly with King Ahab, were problematic. The address to Jehoshaphat highlights the personal nature of prophetic messages, where God speaks directly to individuals in positions of authority, holding them accountable for their actions.

Should you help the wicked
This rhetorical question challenges Jehoshaphat's decision to ally with Ahab, a king known for his wickedness and idolatry. The Hebrew word for "wicked" is "rasha," which denotes those who are guilty of sin and rebellion against God. The question implies a moral and spiritual evaluation, urging Jehoshaphat to consider the implications of his alliances. It serves as a reminder that God's people are called to be separate from those who oppose His ways.

and love those who hate the LORD?
The phrase "love those who hate the LORD" further emphasizes the incongruity of Jehoshaphat's actions. The Hebrew word for "love" is "ahav," which conveys deep affection and loyalty. By aligning himself with those who hate the LORD, Jehoshaphat is seen as compromising his devotion to God. This part of the verse calls believers to examine their own relationships and alliances, ensuring that their loyalties align with God's purposes.

Because of this, the wrath of the LORD is upon you
The consequence of Jehoshaphat's actions is the "wrath of the LORD," a phrase that signifies divine displeasure and judgment. The Hebrew word for "wrath" is "qetseph," which indicates a strong, passionate response from God against sin. This warning serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views disobedience and the importance of aligning one's actions with His will. It also reflects the biblical principle that God's judgment is not arbitrary but is a response to human actions that violate His covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jehu son of Hanani
A prophet or seer who confronts King Jehoshaphat. He is the son of Hanani, another prophet who had previously rebuked King Asa.

2. King Jehoshaphat
The king of Judah who is known for his reforms and efforts to bring the people back to the worship of Yahweh. He is rebuked by Jehu for forming an alliance with Ahab, the wicked king of Israel.

3. The Seer
A term used for prophets in ancient Israel, indicating someone who receives divine insight or revelation.

4. The Wrath of the LORD
Refers to God's displeasure and potential judgment due to Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab, who was known for his idolatry and opposition to God.

5. Alliance with Ahab
The event that prompted Jehu's rebuke. Jehoshaphat had allied himself with Ahab through marriage and military cooperation, which was seen as compromising his faithfulness to God.

Teaching Points

Avoiding Compromise
Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab serves as a warning against forming partnerships that compromise our faith and values. Believers are called to be in the world but not of it.

Heeding Prophetic Warnings
Just as Jehu delivered a message from God, we must be attentive to the warnings and guidance found in Scripture and through godly counsel.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Jehoshaphat's experience reminds us that disobedience to God can bring about His discipline. We must strive to align our actions with His will.

God's Mercy and Justice
While God is just and His wrath is real, His rebukes are also opportunities for repentance and restoration. Jehoshaphat's later reforms show that God is merciful to those who turn back to Him.

Evaluating Alliances
In our personal and professional lives, we should evaluate our relationships and partnerships to ensure they honor God and do not lead us away from His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Jehoshaphat's mistake in forming an alliance with Ahab, and how can we apply this lesson to our own relationships and partnerships?

2. How does Jehu's role as a seer or prophet inform our understanding of the importance of listening to godly counsel today?

3. In what ways does the concept of "the wrath of the LORD" challenge or encourage you in your walk with God?

4. How can we discern when a relationship or alliance is leading us away from God's will, and what steps can we take to correct it?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's discipline. How did it lead to growth or change in your life, similar to Jehoshaphat's reforms after his rebuke?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 22
Provides the background of Jehoshaphat's alliance with Ahab, including the battle at Ramoth-gilead where Ahab was killed.

2 Chronicles 16:7-9
Hanani, Jehu's father, rebukes King Asa for relying on the king of Aram instead of the LORD, showing a pattern of prophetic rebuke for alliances with ungodly nations.

James 4:4
Warns against friendship with the world, which parallels Jehoshaphat's mistake of aligning with those who oppose God.