2 Kings 9:17 – “When the lookout standing on the tower in Jezreel saw Jehu’s troops approaching, he called out, ‘I see some troops coming.’ ‘Get a horseman,’ Joram ordered. ‘Send him to meet them and ask, “Do you come in peace?”’”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, a lookout stationed in Jezreel spots Jehu and his company approaching the city. King Joram, unaware of Jehu’s mission to overthrow him, orders a horseman to go out and ask whether Jehu comes in peace. This interaction marks the beginning of the confrontation between Jehu and Joram, as Joram does not yet realize that Jehu has been anointed as king and is coming to execute God’s judgment on him and his family. The question, “Do you come in peace?” is important, as it foreshadows the lack of peace Joram is about to experience due to his rebellion against God.
Historical Context
At this time, Israel was ruled by King Joram, the son of Ahab, who continued the idolatrous practices that his father and mother, Jezebel, had introduced. Jezreel was an important city where both Joram and his mother Jezebel resided. Jehu, who had been anointed by God to bring judgment on Ahab’s house, is now on his way to confront Joram and take over the kingship. The lookout’s sighting of Jehu’s approaching troops signals the beginning of a significant shift in Israel’s leadership, as God’s justice is about to be carried out through Jehu’s actions.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights several key theological themes. First, it emphasizes the idea of divine justice. Jehu’s approach to Jezreel represents the unstoppable advance of God’s judgment. Joram’s question, “Do you come in peace?” reflects the fact that true peace is only possible when there is alignment with God’s will. Joram, having led Israel into sin and idolatry, is about to face the consequences of his actions, showing that peace cannot coexist with persistent rebellion against God. This verse also demonstrates God’s sovereignty—no matter how secure Joram may have felt in his position, God’s plan was unfolding to bring an end to his rule.
Literary Analysis
The verse builds suspense, with the lookout’s report setting the stage for the dramatic encounter between Jehu and Joram. The imagery of Jehu’s troops approaching the city conveys a sense of urgency and impending conflict. The repeated question, “Do you come in peace?” adds a layer of irony, as Jehu’s mission is not one of peace but of judgment. The question also reflects Joram’s ignorance of the situation, as he is unaware that his downfall is imminent. The verse functions as a turning point in the narrative, where the tension between Jehu’s divinely ordained mission and Joram’s rule comes to a head.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 57:21 – “There is no peace,” says my God, “for the wicked.” This verse highlights the theological reality that peace cannot exist where there is rebellion against God, as seen in Joram’s reign.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:3 – “While people are saying, ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly.” This verse reflects the false sense of security Joram had as he faced the approaching judgment.
- Micah 3:11 – Leaders ask, “Is not the Lord among us? No disaster will come upon us.” Like Joram, many leaders falsely assume that their position shields them from accountability before God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s justice is real and inevitable. No matter how secure or comfortable we may feel in our current circumstances, if we are living in rebellion against God’s will, His justice will eventually catch up with us. The question “Do you come in peace?” challenges us to reflect on whether we are truly living in peace with God—meaning, are we aligned with His purposes, or are we resisting His authority in our lives? The verse also teaches us to be vigilant, recognizing that peace can only come through a right relationship with God, not through external circumstances or temporary safety.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Although this verse highlights the coming judgment on Joram, it also reveals God’s love for His people. God’s judgment is not arbitrary or cruel—it is an expression of His desire to remove evil and restore righteousness among His people. By sending Jehu to bring an end to Joram’s corrupt reign, God was demonstrating His love for Israel by removing the leaders who had led them into sin and idolatry. God’s love is not only expressed through mercy but also through justice, as He seeks to protect His people from the harm caused by wickedness and rebellion.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
The question, “Do you come in peace?” is ultimately answered in the person of Jesus Christ. While Jehu’s approach symbolized judgment and the end of a corrupt dynasty, Jesus brings true peace through His life, death, and resurrection. Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), and His mission was to reconcile humanity to God, bringing an end to the enmity caused by sin. However, just as Jehu’s arrival brought judgment to those who had rejected God’s ways, Jesus’ return will also bring judgment to those who have not accepted Him as Savior (Matthew 24:30). Jesus offers peace to all who repent and believe, but He will also return as a judge for those who remain in rebellion against God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Joram’s question, “Do you come in peace?” challenge us to examine whether we are truly living in peace with God?
- What can we learn from this verse about the inevitability of God’s justice, even when it seems delayed?
- How does God’s judgment on Joram reflect His love for His people and His desire to restore righteousness?
- In what ways does Jehu’s mission to bring judgment point us toward Jesus’ mission to bring both peace and justice, and how should we respond to Jesus as the Prince of Peace?