1 Kings 15:33-16:20

16:1-7 | The ministry of Jehu the son of Hanani demonstrated God’s grace to His people: He consistently sent prophets to remind them of the word of the LORD. God is not content to let His people experience His wrath without first warning them and calling them back to Him.

16:9-15 | Like other kings in the ancient Near East, Zimri killed every one of his predecessor’s heirs, leaving no living rival to the throne. Nonetheless, Zimri was only able to stay in power for seven days – the shortest rule in Israelite history.

16:13 | The Hebrew word translated idols here and in 16:26 is from the Hebrew word “vapor, breath,” implying that idols lack any lasting substance. This is why some translations render the word in both verses as “worthless idols.” Elsewhere, Scripture reveals that idolatry leads to emptiness and bondage (Judg. 18:24-31).