Useful Bible Studies > 2 Kings Commentary > chapter 10
Jehu was the man whom God chose to be king of northern and central Israel. God appointed him as an act of judgment against the previous royal family, the family of Ahab (1 Kings 19:16-17).
Previously, Jehu had been a commander in Ahab’s army (9:25). He was well-known for the fierce and bold way that he drove his chariot (a simple vehicle that horses pulled) – 2 Kings 9:20. He was a brave man with strong ambitions.
Jehu dealt with Ahab’s family in a very severe manner. As soon as he became king, he killed that whole family. Not long afterwards, he carried out a fierce attack against the priests of the false god Baal.
However, Jehu neglected to obey God’s law in a proper manner. He carried out God’s judgments, but not in a manner that God approves of. He used lies and untrue statements when that suited him. He did not trust God to bring about what God wanted, in a right and proper way. Rather, Jehu chose any means, either good or bad, to achieve God’s purposes.
Jehu became king about 100 years after northern and central Israel had become a separate country. In that period of time, the country had three royal families, and they all had failed. Jehu’s royal family was more successful – it continued to rule for the next 100 years.
Jehu’s capital city was Samaria. He ruled there for 28 years, and his grave was also there. His son Jehoahaz became king after him.
Next part: Queen Athaliah (2 Kings 11:1)
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