Ross takes a look at motivation and conduct of Jehu and his interaction with the prophet Elisha. At an initial reading the passages from 2 Kings 8-10 he gives the impression that no one can match his zeal for following God’s instructions to strike down the House of Ahab, 2 Kings 9:7.
Killed King Joram (Ahab’s son) 2 Kings 9:22-26
Killed Jezebel (Ahab’s wife) 2 Kings 9:30-37
Had 70 princes of Ahab murdered 2 Kings 10:1-11
Slaughtered 42 relatives of the (ex)king of Judah 2 Kings 10:12-14
Destroyed all Baal worshipers in their temple 2 Kings 10:18-28
He had a reputation for going to the limit in what he thought was his obedience to God. In v. 20 he is characterised as driving like a ‘maniac’ (NIV). Ross identifies is that despite the outward appearance of commitment and dedication Jehu lacked a genuinely committed heart for God. Jehu kept back and still worshiped idols. He did not keep the whole law of the Lord with all of his heart, 2 Kings 10:31
Our walk with God can be equally deficient, having the appearance of passion and zeal but underneath having hearts that seek after old sins.
Ross then looks at the the zeal of Elisha and finds a very different picture
Refused to leave Elijah’s side Ch 2
Care of the poor and childless Ch 4
Refused a fortune from Naaman Ch 5
Feeds his enemies Ch 6
Anoints kings Ch 8,9
The question is whether we really have a heart for the lost and those who have not believed in the Lord Jesus for their salvation. Are we showing the zeal we read of in Romans 12:11-18
[11] Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. [12] Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. [13] Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. [14] Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. [15] Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. [16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. [17] Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. [18] If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (ESV)