Definition: This [was] the word of the LORD which he spake unto Jehu, saying, Thy sons shall sit on the throne of Israel unto the fourth [generation]. And so it came to pass.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Kings 15:12. It's a really interesting and somewhat surprising passage! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is about Jehu’s punishment for his actions. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “This [was] the word of the LORD which he spake unto Jehu…” – This tells us that this isn't just any random utterance. It was a direct message from God to King Jehu. It’s important to remember that God speaks through people. “…saying, Thy sons shall sit on the throne of Israel unto the fourth [generation].” - This is the core of the verse. Jehu had been abusing his power and making terrible decisions – he was basically ruling with an iron fist and ignoring God's commands. This phrase means that Jehu’s descendants would eventually inherit the throne of Israel, meaning they would sit on it for four generations. It’s a very harsh consequence for his wickedness. “And so it came to pass.” – This is a simple statement of what happened as a result of this decree. It's an observation about the outcome of Jehu's actions. So, in short, God was punishing Jehu because he had been acting unjustly and ruining the kingdom. Important Context: The Book of 2 Kings is a history book about the reign of King Jehu. It’s a dramatic story about ambition, betrayal, and divine judgment. This verse highlights a significant shift in God's plan after Jehu’s downfall. It shows that even though Jehu was punished, God ultimately ordained a future where his descendants would rule. Does this make sense? Absolutely! It speaks to themes of justice, divine punishment, and the eventual rise of a new dynasty through God’s will. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from 2 Kings? Discuss the significance of this verse in the larger story of the book? Give you some historical context about Jehu's reign?