2 Kings 9:1-10
SUMMARY
ElishaMiracle working prophet who succeeded Elijah. More and a young, nameless prophet demonstrate the risks of being a prophet in the ancient world.
ANALYSIS
In 1 Kings 17-19, Elisha’s predecessor, ElijahA miracle working Israelite prophet who opposed worship of Baal. More, experienced a spot of trouble with the reigning monarchs. Similarly, this chapter demonstrates the occasional dangers associated with ancient prophecyProphecy is the gift, inspired by God, of speaking and interpreting the divine will. Prophets such as Amos, Isaiah, and Ezekiel spoke words of judgment and comfort to the people of Israel on behalf of God. More. Elisha sent one of his disciples, a young prophet, to carry out God’s instructions to appoint JehuAnointed king by Elisha, Jehu overthrew the dynasty of Ahab and Jezebel. More as king over Israel. Since Jehu was the commander of the army and not in line for the throne, this anointing moved the royal succession out of the current line, establishing a new dynasty. It was, therefore, a risky and dangerous move. This explains Elisha’s decision to send someone else to accomplish the task and his wise – and humorous – final instructions in 2 Kings 9:3, “Then open the door and flee; do not linger”! Perhaps Elisha learned from his own mentor the inherent risks of dabbling in royal politics, and passed the lesson bluntly down to his own protégé.
