Definition: And he that [was] over the house, and he that [was] over the city, the elders also, and the bringers up [of the children], sent to Jehu, saying, We [are] thy servants, and will do all that thou shalt bid us; we will not make any king: do thou [that which is] good in thine eyes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 2 Kings 10:5. It’s a really important and dramatic verse in the Book of Judges, and it’s about a man named Jehu being accused of serious crimes. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: Jehu is the Problem: The verse describes Jehu, a powerful king who was becoming increasingly corrupt and cruel. He was essentially abusing his power. The Elders and Officials Send a Message: A group of elders and officials (leaders) sent a message to Jehu, warning him that they were willing to do whatever he asked them to do. They weren’t trying to be king – they just wanted to obey his commands. “We are your servants…and will do all that you command” : This is the core of the verse. They were essentially saying, "We'll do anything you want, as long as we follow your wishes." They weren’t trying to be a ruler; they were simply following orders. “Do good in your eyes” : This is the crucial part. The officials are asking Jehu to do something that would be considered good by God, but which he was doing in a way that displeased him. What Does It Mean? This verse speaks to a serious moral failing on Jehu’s part. He was prioritizing his own power and comfort over justice and righteousness. He was essentially becoming a tyrant – ruling through fear and intimidation rather than through fairness and God's law. Key Takeaway: The verse is a warning about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of adhering to God’s laws and principles, even when it means challenging those in authority. It highlights the idea that true leadership comes from serving God, not ruling over people as if they were his property. In simpler terms: Jehu was being a bad king because he was acting out of self-interest instead of following God's will. He was prioritizing his own power over doing what was right and just. --- Do you want me to explain any part of this verse in more detail, or perhaps relate it to a specific theme like justice or leadership? For example, I could: Discuss the context of the story – why is Jehu so important? Explain the significance of "doing good in your eyes." Compare this episode to other stories about kings and their responsibilities.