The Spirit of Jezebel

The Spirit of Jezebel
George Kirkpatrick

Vital Words to the Body of Christ
Freely We Have Received, Freely We Give
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The age old question is, "What's in a name?". The answer to this question is, "Much!". When we hear some names we relate them to good times or pleasant events. Other names we hear bring forth anxiety or remind of us events in our life that were not pleasant. Other names remind us of places we have been or would like to visit. Many names we relate to inventions. When we hear the name of "Bell", we think of the telephone, the same is true with "Ford" and the automobile, or "Morse" with the telegraph. Other names remind us of people who have stood out in sports: Ruth and Gehrig with baseball and Hogan and Arnold with golf. The name of Lindburg will always be associated with airplanes, courage, and accomplishment. The name of Einstein will all always be associated with genius. Down through history there have been those whose names have been beloved. While other names provoke anger, mistrust, and hatred. People name their children after those who have been an honor and glory to their name. Their name will continue for many generations. Then there are other names no one would name a child after. One example would be Adolph Hitler. His name will live in infamy for all time. In the Bible God uses names to display a person's character, nature, and personality. Names are used to tell and foretell events. There are many names in the Bible we relate as good, and we would like to pattern our lives after. We also name our children after these people for the same reason. There are many Davids, Daniels, Marys, Rachels, and Pauls; all names we associate for good. But there is one name in the Bible no one would ever think to name their daughter after, and that name is Jezebel. As we learn about Jezebel, we discover she was the daughter of Ethbaal, King of Tyre and Sidon. The name Ethbaal means "with Baal". Before becoming King, Ethbaal was a priest to the false goddess Astarte, sometimes called Ashtoreth or Ishtar. This was the goddess of sensual love or the goddess of sex. Ethbaal overthrew his brother, Phelles, to become King of Tyre and Sidon. So from the beginning Jezebel was acquainted with false religion and government. Jezebel grew up in a position of power, authority, and prestige. She would never relinquish these all the days of her life. The name Jezebel means "Baal exulted", and has the further meaning of "unchaste, and non-cohabitant". The word non-cohabitant means "unhusbanded". The word unchaste means "lewd, impure, and defiled". Jezebel's name not only shows her character, it also foretells her way of life. Many women down through history have been non-cohabitant and unchaste. These always display the spirit of Jezebel. Jezebel married Ahab, King of Israel. As Queen of Israel, she immediately set up her false religions, and began to require the people to worship her false gods. It is recorded Jezebel had four hundred and fifty prophets of Baal and four hundred prophets of the grove who ate at her table, *** I Kings 18:19. Baal was the god of agriculture. Baal represents the god of plenty and increase. The goddess of the grove was Astarte. She was the goddess of all sensual love and sex. Truly the world today and many who are called by God's name are Still worshiping the false gods of Jezebel. Jezebel used her persuasive ways to control King Ahab. Ahab became a puppet in the hands of Jezebel, as do all those who refuse to deal with the spirit of Jezebel. Ahab followed her every whim to keep peace in his kingdom. It is written of Ahab: "And he reared up an altar for Baal in the house of Baal, which he had built in Samaria. And Ahab made a grove; and Ahab did more to provoke the Lord God of Israel to anger than all the kings of Israel that were before him." *** I Kings 16:32-33 Because Ahab allowed Jezebel to control what went on in his life, he provoked the anger of the Lord more than any King of Israel before him. Yet today we see the spirit of Jezebel ruling in the White House and in most of the homes in our land because men will not stand up to the spirit of Jezebel they live with. Even the young girls from preschool on are taught, "Girls Rule". This has become the motto of our land. Many high offices are held by women. Many of the President's cabinet are women. The last two appointments to the Supreme Court have been women. Truly, the spirit of Jezebel is alive and well in our land. We have become a laughing stock all over the world. A nation who claims to be a Godly nation is ruled by women. We send our women to negotiate with the men leaders of the world. Ahab and Jezebel are truly in the White House, and Jezebel rules the oval office. Today the government is not run by Godly counsel. Instead it is run by "think tanks" who take counsel from soothsayers who practice their witchcraft openly, and receive counsel from the spirit of darkness. The worship of Baal and Astare is more prevalent in our government today then it was in the days of Ahab. Is it any wonder God's judgment hand is upon this nation? The Spirit of Jezebel is not only in our government, it has come into the church. Today the spirit of Jezebel rules many churches. Why is this? It is because the men of God will not stand up against the spirit of Jezebel. This is shown as a type and shadow in the time of Elijah the prophet. God raised up the prophet Elijah in the time of Ahab and Jezebel. Elijah's first recorded act was to inform Ahab it would not rain until he (Elijah) said so. After this pronouncement Elijah fled. After three and one half years of drought, Elijah returned. Elijah met with Ahab and told him to gather all the people of Israel unto Mt. Carmel: "So Ahab sent unto all the children of Israel, and gathered the prophets together unto Mount Carmel." *** I Kings 18:20 All Israel came together, along with the prophets of Baal and Astare. "And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow Him. And the people answered him not a word." *** I Kings 18:21 Elijah alone faced all the prophets of the false gods in Israel. He asked the people, "How long are you going to halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him. But if the god of plenty and the goddess of sex are your gods, them follow them." This same question could be asked of everyone in government and in the church today. Many say they believe in God, yet their is no evidence of God ruling in their lives. "Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the Lord; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men." *** I Kings 18:22 Jezebel had killed most of the prophets of God, and Elijah thought he was the last prophet of God left alive. Today many men of God feel the same way. These ministers have worked hard to get the people to serve God, but there are so many diversions in the peoples' lives that their walk before God has become secondary. These true men of God cry out before God, "Am I the only one left who walks the way you have designed in your Word?" When Elijah cried out, "God, I am the only one", God spoke to him: "Yet I have left Me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him." *** I Kings 19:18 There was another man who met Elijah on his return. His name was Obadiah. He was governor in the house of Ahab. Obadiah asked Elijah: "Was it not told my lord what I did when Jezebel slew the prophets of the Lord, how I hid an hundred men of the Lord's prophets by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water?" *** I Kings 18:13 God has His prophets hid, and He is feeding them on the bread of life and the water of His Word. The government thinks they are going to eliminate the true worship of God. This is their new age plan. Government wants to be our god. But God has another plan. This is shown in Elijah's great victory over all the prophets of Baal and Astare. After this Ahab returned to his palace: "And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel, sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time." *** I Kings 19:1-2 Elijah was able to deal with the King of Israel. He was able to deal with all the false prophets of Baal and Astarte. But he could not deal with the spirit of Jezebel. When Elijah received the message, he fled because he was so terrified by Jezebel's threat. ". . . he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers." *** I Kings 19:4 Elijah had entered into a place of depression. Today many pastors, husbands, and teachers have entered into a place of depression because they refuse to deal with the spirit of Jezebel. Elijah's condition did not improve, it got worse: "And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah?" *** I Kings 19:9 The cave represents the lowest part of the earth. There is no light in a cave, only darkness. When we allow ourselves to enter into this place, we have extinguished all the light of God in our lives. God will not enter into this place with us. The Lord asked Elijah, "What are you doing in there?" Elijah had forgotten all the promises, power, and protection of God in his life. Today many pastors, husbands, and teachers are afraid to deal with the spirit of Jezebel. They fear losing their ministry, their home, and their job; when in reality they will lose it all because they cannot serve God in their home or on their jobs in their depressed state. Elijah's answer to the Lord is as many would answer today: "And he said, I have been very jealous for the Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken Thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain Thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away." *** I Kings 19:14 Even though they are zealous to do God's work, many fear those who seem to have the power over them. Today when those in power threaten those who are in the place where God put them, they fear and quake. They fear the government more than they fear God. Those who fail to deal with the new age satanic spirit of Jezebel make excuses for their condition. Elijah concluded, "The children of Israel have forsaken Thy covenant, thrown down Thy altars, slain Thy prophets, and now they seek my life". This was not the real reason Elijah was sitting in the cave. It was only an excuse. The reason he was in this cave of depression was because he failed to stand up to the spirit of Jezebel. The spirit of Jezebel has existed since the Garden of Eden. It has been the spirit of darkness' plan from the beginning to destroy the home. Many marriages are failing today because the husband and father refuse to take the headship of their home. When the serpent wanted to tempt God's creation, he did not come to Adam, he came to Eve. His promise to her was: "For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil." *** Genesis 3:5 The serpent promised, "Ye shall be as gods." This has been womens' desire ever since. Most women are not satisfied to dwell in their created place in God. Woman was created to be an helpmate to the man. But many woman desire to be as Jezebel. They refuse to relinquish their rule in the home and in Spiritual matters where their family is concerned. This is why there are so many Jezebels in government, in the home, in our schools, and yes, even in the pulpit. Many churches ordain women as pastors, teachers, elders, and deacons. These choose to overlook the words of Paul: "But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence." *** I Timothy 2:12 A woman is not to teach or usurp authority over the man. The word usurp means "to act on ones own authority". Since God does not ordain them, they act upon their own authority. The woman is to be in silence. Paul disclosed this to the church at Corinth: "Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church." *** I Corinthians 14:34-35 Paul stated it is a shame for women to speak in church. Many would proclaim, "This is an oldfashioned, outdated idea". This is because the spirit of Jezebel is so strong in the government, the home, and the church. Most, as Elijah, are afraid to stand up against it. Paul wrote: "Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man." *** I Corinthians 11:9 Woman's position was established from the beginning, and God has not changed His mind, nor His Word. The only thing that has changed is that man has relinquished His created place in God. Women, on the other hand, refuse to become what God intended for them to be. By the Spirit, Paul proclaimed what God desires His female creation to become: "To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the Word of God be not blasphemed." *** Titus 2:5 Women are to be discreet (sober and temperate), chaste, keepers at home, obedient to their own husbands. What did Jezebel's name mean? It meant "unchaste and non-cohabitant or non-husbanded". Women who refuse to become what God created them to be are operating by the spirit of Jezebel, and they have blasphemed the Word of God. Today many pastors proclaim publicly their acceptance of women in the ministry, but when asked privately they declare it is not Biblically acceptable. In the time of Elijah God was about to do something about the spirit of Jezebel: "And the Lord said unto him (Elijah), Go, return on thy way to the wilderness of Damascus: and when thou comest, anoint Hazael to be king over Syria: And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room. And it shall come to pass, that him that escapeth the sword of Hazael shall Jehu slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay." *** I Kings 19:15-17 God was raising up the power and authority to deal with the spirit of Jezebel and the sins of Israel. Elijah was to anoint three men: first, Hazael, second, Jehu, and thirdly, Elisha. Hazael was to be king over Syria. History teaches us God would use Hazael to bring judgment upon Israel for their wickedness. Jehu was to be king over Israel. God would use Jehu to bring judgment upon Jezebel and the house of Ahab. Elisha was to be a prophet to Israel in Elijah's place. God was not only changing the heads of government, He was changing His priesthood who would minister to His people. Elisha represents the double portion ministry God is raising up to overthrow all wickedness at the end of the age. God will replace those who will not deal with the spirit of Jezebel. God spoke of His coming judgment upon the whole earth. Those who escaped the sword of Hazael, Jehu would slay. Those who escaped the sword of Jehu, Elisha would slay. God's word to Elijah foretells God's people will be ultimately victorious. No matter how many forms of government rise and fall, or who heads up these governments, God will have a victorious people who will rule and reign with Him for one thousand years. The day came when God would anoint Jehu King over Israel. This was after Ahab had been killed in Ramath Gilead by the Syrians. Ahab's son, Ahaziah, reigned for two years after him. It was written of Ahaziah: "And he did evil in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the way of his father, and in the way of his mother, and in the way of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin." *** I Kings 22:42 Jezebel ruled Israel through her son, just as she did through Ahab. The spirit of Jezebel must always be in control. Ahaziah was king for two years. After two years he accidently fell from his upper chambers and never recovered from his wounds. Ahaziah had no sons, so after his death, Jehoram his brother reigned in his stead. It was during Jehoram's reign that Elijah was translated off the earth and Elisha received the double portion anointing. Jehoram reigned twelve years in Israel. So at the time God anointed Jehu king over Israel, Ahab had been dead fourteen years, and throughout that time Jezebel ruled Israel through her sons. "And Elisha the prophet called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him, Gird up thy loins, and take this box of oil in thine hand, and go to Ramothgilead: And when thou comest thither, look out there Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi, and go in, and make him rise up from among his brethren, and carry him to an inner chamber; Then take the box of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, Thus saith the Lord, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then open the door, and flee, and tarry not." *** II Kings 9:1-3 The anointing of Jehu was to be done quickly. The young prophet was not to tarry. He was to anoint Jehu and flee. The young prophet was obedient to the words of Elisha: "And he arose, and went into the house; and he poured the oil on his head, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over the people of the Lord, even over Israel. And thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master, that I may avenge the blood of my servants the prophets, and the blood of all the servants of the Lord, at the hand of Jezebel." *** II Kings 9:6-7 Jehu was captain over all Israel's army. He was not only anointed king, he was given his marching orders. He was to begin immediately to bring judgment upon the house of Ahab, and Jezebel was his main target. God's judgment was not only to be swift, it was to be complete. This is a type and shadow of God's judgment He will bring upon the whole earth. The young prophet continued his proclamation to Jehu: "For the whole house of Ahab shall perish: and I will cut off from Ahab him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel: And the dogs shall eat Jezebel in the portion of Jezreel, and there shall be none to bury her. And he opened the door, and fled." *** II Kings 9:8-10 This was to fulfill the prophesy given by Elijah years before. The young prophet opened the door and fled. We must remember God was anointing another king in Israel. Only God knew where Jehu's loyalties were. Were his loyalties to King Ahab and the government, or would they be to the Word of God? Today when dealing with the government, you never know where loyalties lie, and this generates fear. Anytime you deal with the spirit of Jezebel there is always fear. This is why her spirit is rampant in the government, the home, and especially in the church. "Then Jehu came forth to the servants of his lord: and one said unto him, Is all well? Wherefore came this mad fellow to thee? And he said unto them, Ye know the man, and his communication. And they said, It is false; tell us now. And he said, Thus and thus spake he to me, saying, Thus saith the Lord, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then they hasted, and took every man his garment, and put it under him on the top of the stairs, and blew with trumpets, saying, Jehu is king." *** II Kings 9:11-13 When Jehu returned from the presence of the young prophet, his men recognized the anointing. All will recognize those who are anointed to throw down the spirit of Jezebel. When Israel's army recognized this anointing, they began to act immediately. The first thing they did was to take off their uniforms, because now they were part of another army. They would no longer serve the old king. They were ready to become part of what God was raising up in the earth. Today God is raising up Joel's army, an army of mighty men. This army will not break their rank, neither will they thrust one another. They will all walk in the paths of righteousness. If they fall upon the sword (God's Word), they will not be wounded, *** Joel 2:7-8. "And the Lord shall utter His voice before His army: for His camp is very great: for He is strong that executeth His Word: for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?" *** Joel 2:11 God will be the commander and chief of this army. Joel records God's camp is very great. These are a strong people who will execute God's Word. The word execute means "to accomplish, to bring about, and to use". God will use His great army in the day of the Lord to restore His creation to their rightful place in Him. Joel asked, "Who can abide the day of the Lord?" Paul wrote to Timothy about the soldiers in God's army: "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier." *** II Timothy 2:3-4 Those who are part of God's army must learn to endure hardships and afflictions. Those who are part of God's army must not entangle themselves with the affairs of this life. These must be totally sold out to their king. They must be as Jehu's army, when the Word of the Lord came, they immediately changed uniforms. If we are to be in God's army our uniform must be our robe of righteousness. Any other uniform is not suitable for the task ahead of God's army. Jehu went up immediately to Jezreel to accomplish God's purpose upon King Jehoram, his mother Jezebel, and the house of Ahab. Editor's note: There are two spellings of Jehoram. In I Kings it is spelled Jehoram, and in II Kings it is spelled Joram. We will use the spelling as is in each of the Scriptures. King Joram had gone to battle against Hazael, King of Syria, and returned to Jezebel wounded: "So Jehu rode in a chariot, and went to Jezreel; for Joram lay there. And Ahaziah king of Judah was come down to see Joram." *** II Kings 9:16 When Jehu got to Jezreel, not only was Joram there, so was Ahaziah, king of Judah. When God acts, he acts in concert to fulfill His total will. Jehu was to bring judgment upon the whole house of Ahab. We know by God's Word the spirit of Jezebel was in the house of, Ahaziah, king of Judah: "And he (Ahaziah, king of Judah) walked in the way of the house of Ahab, and did evil in the sight of the Lord, as did the house of Ahab: for he was the son in law of the house of Ahab." *** II Kings 8:27 Ahaziah, son of Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, had married the daughter of Jezebel and was walking in the ways of Ahab because the spirit of Jezebel ruled in his house. The spirit of Jezebel not only ruled in Israel, but in Judah also. When the spirit of Jezebel is present it always has control and influence. Today we have two church systems: the old denominational order and the pentecostal movement. The spirit of Jezebel has control and influence in both. Until this influence is removed God cannot bless. So Jehu came to Israel: "And there stood a watchman on the tower in Jezreel, and he spied the company of Jehu as he came, and said, I see a company. And Joram said, Take an horseman, and send to meet them, and let him say, Is it peace? So there went one on horseback to meet him, and said, Thus saith the king, Is it peace? And Jehu said, What hast thou to do with peace? Turn thee behind me. And the watchman told, saying, The messenger came to them, but he cometh not again." *** II Kings 9:17-18 When the enemy is confronted, they always want peace. The prophet Jeremiah spoke of those who are always crying, "Peace": "For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of My people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace." *** Jeremiah 8:11 When the Old Testament speaks of daughters it is referring to the church in the New Testament. All we hear today is, "Peace! Peace", but there can be no peace where the spirit of Jezebel rules. We also know there can be no peace without the Prince of Peace being in control. Because of the spirit of Jezebel, Israel knew no peace. "Then he sent out a second on horseback, which came to them, and said, Thus saith the king, Is it peace? And Jehu answered, What hast thou to do with peace? Turn thee behind me. And the watchman told, saying, He came even unto them, and cometh not again: and the driving is like the driving of Jehu the son Nimshi; for he driveth furiously. And Joram said, Make ready. And his chariot was made ready. And Joram king of Israel and Ahaziah king of Judah went out, each in his chariot, and they went out against Jehu, and met him in the portion of Naboth the Jezreelite." *** II Kings 9:19-21 Not only did Joram go to meet Jehu, so did Ahaziah, king of Judah. They met in Jezreel in the portion of Naboth. The word portion means "parcel of ground". Jehu met the kings of Israel and Judah in the parcel of ground formerly owned by Naboth. Naboth owned a vineyard Ahab desired. When Naboth refused to sell his vineyard, Jezebel took it upon herself to obtain the parcel of ground for Ahab: "And Jezebel his wife said unto him, Dost thou now govern the kingdom of Israel? Arise, and eat bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite." *** II Kings 21:7 Ahab and Jezebel were no different from those who are in possession of power today. They believe because they have power, all the people are there to serve them. Anything they want they can take, and the people are forced to submit to every whim of government. They lie, cheat, steal, and the people are forced to accept their godless ways. Jezebel had learned this lesson early from her father who overthrew his brother to become king of Sidon and Tyre. "So she wrote letters in Ahab's name, and sealed them with his seal, and sent the letters unto the elders and to the nobles that were in his city, dwelling with Naboth." *** I Kings 21:8 Jezebel set out to destroy Naboth's good name. In her letter she declared a fast and set Naboth in a high place among the people. Drawing attention to someone you are about to destroy is common in today's world. Only now this is not accomplished by declaring a fast. It is done through the newspaper and TV news. Jezebel's further instructions were: "And set two men, sons of Belial, before him, to bear witness against him, saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the king. And then carry him out, and stone him, that he may die." *** II Kings 21:10 The word Belial means "worthless and good for nothing". These are men who will say and do anything for money. This is called character assassination. "And the men of his city, even the elders and the nobles who were the inhabitants in his city, did as Jezebel had sent unto them, and as it was written in the letters which she had sent unto them." *** II Kings 21:11 As queen, Jezebel sat in an high place. The people did as she said, even though they knew it was morally wrong, and against God's Word. The same is true today. No matter how morally wrong something is they do it anyway: for money, to gain position, or prestige. The people did as Jezebel ordered: "Then they sent to Jezebel, saying, Naboth is stoned, and is dead. And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to Ahab, Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give thee for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead. And it came to pass, when Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, that Ahab rose up to go down to the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, to take possession of it." *** II Kings 21:14-16 The thinking in the government is that the end justifies the means. Ahab got his vineyard, but it set in order God's judgment upon his whole household. When Jehu met Joram and Ahaziah, God's wrath would be poured out upon the land Jezebel wrongfully took from Naboth. Judgment upon Ahab's son Joram "And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts are so many?" *** II Kings 9:22 When God's judgment comes, all the people will cry out for "Peace!". Today all people are desiring peace. Peace conferences are being held all over the earth. All we hear is Peace, Peace: peace in the Middle East, peace in Ireland, peace in Bosnia, peace in South America. But there can be no peace, because the earth has rejected the Prince of Peace. Jehu declared, "There can be no peace as long as the whoredoms and witchcrafts of Joram's mother, Jezebel are so many. When the spirit of Jezebel is present whoredoms and witchcrafts are very prevalent. This spirit has pervaded government, the home, and it has even come into the church. God's judgment is at hand as it was in the day of Jehu. "And Joram turned his hands, and fled, and said to Ahaziah, There is treachery, O Ahaziah." *** II Kings 9:23 To Joram it seemed like treachery because he thought his sins could continue forever. This is the thinking of all who are under the influence of the spirit of Jezebel. But God's judgment is at hand. "And Jehu drew a bow with his full strength, and smote Jehoram between his arms, and the arrow went out at his heart, and he sunk down in his chariot." *** II Kings 9:24 Jehu drew his bow with his full strength, and the arrow went directly through the heart of Jehoram. God always gives warning of His coming judgment. His desire is for His people to repent and turn from their wicked ways. But there is day coming when His judgment will come from the full strength of His arm, and it will go through the heart of man's evil ways. Judgement upon Ahab's House "Then said Jehu to Bidkar his captain, Take up, and cast him in the portion of the field of Naboth the Jezreelite: for remember how that, when I and thou rode together after Ahab his father, the Lord laid this burden upon him;" *** II Kings 9:25 Jehu and Bidkar, his captain, had been in Ahab's army when Jezebel had Naboth killed. Now they were about to witness God's judgment upon Ahab's sons, as prophesied before Ahab's death. When Ahab took possession of Naboth's vineyard, God spoke to Elijah to go down to the vineyard of Naboth and speak to Ahab who had just taken possession of Naboth's vineyard: "And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the Lord, Hast thou killed, and also taken possession? And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the Lord, In the place where dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine. And Ahab said to Elijah, Hast thou found me, O mine enemy? And he answered, I have found thee: because thou hast sold thyself to work evil in the sight of the Lord." *** III Kings 21:19-20 God's judgment will be sure today to those who work evil in the sight of the Lord, whether it be from the capital, the state house, the home, or the pulpit. Elijah told Ahab the place where the dogs licked the blood of Naboth, the dogs would lick his blood as well. When Ahab and Jehoshaphat went out against the Syrians: ". . . a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel (Ahab) between the joints of the harness: wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, Turn thine hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded. So the king died, and was brought to Samaria; and they buried the king in Samaria. And one washed the chariot in the pool of Samaria; and the dogs licked up his blood; and they washed his armour; according unto the word of the Lord which he spake." *** II Kings 22:34, 37-38 God's Judgement Upon Jezebel Ahab's actions brought judgment upon his whole house because he allowed wickedness to dwell there. It would be fourteen years before God would bring judgment upon Jezebel. Her wickedness cost her a husband, two sons, and a son-in-law, and her own life also. One may ask, "Why didn't God deal with her earlier? It's because the man is the head of the woman. This is a God-given position, and God expects the man to deal with the woman. When he refuses, he suffers the consequences of her sin. Ahab refused to deal with Jezebel, and he died. Ahaziah his son-in-law failed to deal with his mother, and he died. Joram, his son failed to deal with Jezebel, and the arrow went through his heart. But God's judgment was not complete: Judgment on Ahaziah ". . . when Ahaziah the king of Judah saw this, he fled by the way of the garden house. And Jehu followed after him, and said, Smite him also in the chariot. And they did so at the going up to Gur, which is by Ibleam. And he fled to Megiddo, and died there." *** II Kings 9:27 Ahaziah, the son-in-law of Ahab failed to deal with the spirit of Jezebel in his house, and he died. When God's judgment comes, it is swift, it is in His full strength, and the wicked will not stand even though they cry out for "Peace!". After Jehu slew Joram, he continued on to Jezreel: "And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out a window." *** II Kings 9:30 When Jezebel was told Jehu was on his way, and of his intended purpose, she painted her face. This has the meaning of painting the eyes. We are informed the eyes are the window of the soul. Jezebel painted her eyes to conceal the wickedness in her soul. Painting the eyes also has the meaning "to allure, to look more appealing". Even though wickedness dwelt deep within her heart, Jezebel wanted Jehu to only see her outward appearance of righteousness. Jezebel also tired her hair. Tiring the hair generally meant "the wearing of a head dress or head ornament". The word used here for tired is the Hebrew word YATAB and means "to be joyful, pleasing, to do well, and to seem righteous". Jezebel tried all her alluring and deceptive ways to try to dissuade Jehu from his appointed task. These are the tactics of the spirit of Jezebel. When Jehu entered the city, Jezebel cried: "And as Jehu entered in at the gate, she said, Had Zimri peace, who slew his master". *** II Kings 9:31 Zimri became king of Israel by killing Elah, the son of Baasha. Zimri was captain of Israel's army, as was Jehu. After Zimri made himself king, he only ruled Israel seven days. The people of Israel then appointed Omri to be king in Zimri's place. Zimri went into the king's palace and burnt it, and there he died in the fire. The death of Zimri was only forty-four years prior to Jehu entering Jezreel. Jezebel first tried allurement, then deception, now she resolved to threats and intimidations by bringing up Zimri. Anytime the spirit of Jezebel is present, this pattern always follows. First, the allurement to get its own way; then deception. If these do not work, then threatenings and intimidations spew forth. None of these detoured Jehu from his intended purpose. "And he (Jehu) lifted up his face to the window, and said, Who is on my side? Who? And there looked out to him two or three eunuchs." *** II Kings 9:32 Spiritually speaking, eunuchs are those who serve the king with no desire to reproduce themselves. Jehu's name means "He is Jehovah". When Jehu lifted up his face, he asked, "Who is on my side?" Before we can deal with the spirit of Jezebel, we need to recognize who Jehovah is. We also need to determine who is on the side of Jehovah. The spirit of Jezebel is so deeply rooted, and has such a stronghold on the government, the home, and the church, it is going to take God's whole army to root it out. Only those who are sold out completely to our God will be part of this battle array. Allurement, deception, threats and intimidations will not change their course. "And he (Jehu) said, Throw her (Jezebel) down. So they threw her down: and some of her blood was sprinkled on the wall, and on the horses: and he trode her under foot." *** II Kings 9:33 The eunuchs threw her down and she was trodden under the horses' feet. The spirit of Jezebel must be thrown down and trodden under foot if there is going to be peace and victory in our homes and the church. We can only pray God deal with the spirit of Jezebel in our government. After Jehu refreshed himself, he told his men to bury Jezebel: "And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands." *** II Kings 9:35 Jezebel's head represented her way of thinking, her feet represented the way she walked, and her hands represented who she served. Jehu destroyed Jezebel as God commanded, but her spirit is still in the earth today. Those who have not dealt with the spirit of Jezebel still have the mind of Jezebel. These demand authority. Their authority cannot be contested. These will never be content with their God-given place as helpmeet to their husband. These also walk as Jezebel walked, desiring their own way in every situation, using their femininity to get what they want. These still walk in the ways of Jezebel, where nothing is to low, to despicable to attain their desired end. Those who serve the spirit of Jezebel should know they have become servants of the spirit of darkness. The apostle Paul wrote to the church at Rome: "Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness." *** Romans 6:16 Those who think and walk as Jezebel did are servants to her spirit, and it will cost them everything, including their eternal life in God. Ahab had died. His sons, Jehoram and Ahaziah had died. Jezebel had died. ***** Jeannie added phrase last sentence ***** But Jehu's judgment did not end with the death of Jezebel. God's commandment was the whole house of Ahab was to perish. Ahab had seventy sons who dwelt in Samaria. These sons were brought up by the leaders of the city. Jehu ordered the leaders of the city to slay Ahab's seventy sons. "And it came to pass, when the letter came to them, that they took the king's sons, and slew seventy persons, and put their heads in baskets, and sent them to Jezreel." *** II Kings 10:7 When God's judgment falls upon the spirit of Jezebel in the midst of the church system, God's judgment will be complete. "So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his kinsfolk, and his priests, until he left him none remaining." *** II Kings 10:11 Those who dwell with the spirit of Jezebel will suffer the loss of all things. Besides losing her life, Jezebel lost her husband and all their posterity. She also lost her friends, and even those who served in her chambers turned against her. When all the authority and influence Jezebel held over others was destroyed, her false gods remained. Jehu would also deal with these: "And Jehu gathered all the people together, and said unto them, Ahab served Baal a little; but Jehu shall serve him much. Now therefore call unto me all the prophets of Baal, all his servants, and all his priests; let none be wanting: for I have a great sacrifice to do to Baal; whosoever shall be wanting, he shall not live. But Jehu did it in subtlety, to the intent that he might destroy the worshipers of Baal." *** II Kings 10:18-19 Jehu had a plan to deal with the all the worship of the prophets of Baal at one time in Israel: "And Jehu sent through all Israel: and all the worshipers of Baal came, so that there was not a man left that came not. And they came into the house of Baal; and the house of Baal was full from one end to another. And when they went in to offer sacrifices and burnt offerings, Jehu appointed fourscore men without, and said, If any of the men whom I have brought into your hands escape, he that letteth him go, his life shall be for the life of him." *** II Kings 10:21 & 24 Jehu destroyed every worshiper of Baal in Israel. He brought out the images of Baal and burnt them, and broke down the house Ahab had built for Baal worship. God's judgment was complete upon the house of Ahab and Jezebel, and also upon every evil they brought upon Israel. God's judgment is again set in the land. His judgment again will be complete. Today man believes he is getting away with his sin and has snubbed His nose at God. The prophet Zephaniah spoke of the day in which we live: "And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, the Lord will not do good, neither will he do evil." *** Zephaniah 1:12 Today, man is truly settled back on his lees, taking great ease from the things of God. They have determined in their hearts that God will do neither good nor evil. Their day of awakening is at hand. The spirit of Jezebel is rampant in our government. Jesus spoke about the judgment he would bring upon Mystery Babylon. Mystery Babylon is the United States of America. [see "Lord of Hosts" by G. Kirkpatrick] "And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth." *** Revelation 18:24 In her was found the blood (relatives) of the prophets and saints who were slain upon the earth. The United States is being ruled by the new age spirit which is the spirit of Jezebel. The new age spirit is out to destroy all that is called righteous. Jesus continues with his revelation to John: "And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand." *** Revelation 19:1-2 God's judgment will be complete upon this land. The spirit of Jezebel and all she stood for will be completely destroyed out of the land. God will not stop there. The spirit of Jezebel fills many pulpits. God's judgment will strike through the heart of the church. The apostle Paul gives us insight into God's judgment: "For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?" *** I Peter 4:17 God will judge His house. Peter asked, "What shall be the end of those who obey not the gospel of God?" Those who are called by His name and obey not His gospel will be judged severely by God. [see "Those Who Obey Not the Gospel" by G. Kirkpatrick] Jesus revealed to John on the Isle of Patmos what would happen to the spirit of Jezebel that stands in the pulpit. John wrote to the church at Thyatira: "Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce My servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols." *** Revelation 2:20 It should be obvious Jesus was not speaking of the original Jezebel, He was speaking of the spirit of Jezebel that has been allowed to come into the church. Jesus disclosed to the church at Thyatira, these allow the spirit of Jezebel to teach in their churches. As we have said before, Paul forbade it, and here Jesus' Himself forbids women to teach in the church. Most women who stand in the pulpit give themselves titles: prophetess, reverend, apostle, overseer, or elder. Jesus States, "They seduce His servants." The word seduce is the Greek word PLANAO and means "to lead away from the truth". Those who will not stand up to the spirit of Jezebel are led away from the truth of God. Jesus revealed to John, "His people are led away to commit fornication". Jesus is not speaking of physical fornication, He is speaking of God's people committing spiritual fornication. Spiritual fornication is when God's people are led away to prostitute themselves with other gods. We sometimes need to be reminded that power, authority, and position are "gods" in peoples' lives. When the spirit of Jezebel stands in the pulpit, this is when God's people have committed fornication by allowing the woman to usurp the authority over the man, *** I Timothy 2:12. This is an abomination unto God, and will invoke His judgment upon the church. Jesus further relates, "She seduced His people to eat things sacrificed to idols." That which was sacrificed to idols was meat left over from the heathen sacrifices. It was accorded to have little value. The meat that comes forth from the Jezebel spirit has little or no value. It does not nourish the soul, nor does it produce life in the hearer. Paul spoke of this in his letter to Timothy: "Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." *** II Timothy 3:5-7 Those who only have a form of godliness are never able to come to the knowledge of the truth because they are eating the worthless meat sacrificed to idols. These who commit spiritual fornication with the spirit of Jezebel believe in her unworthy titles because they are seduced by her power, authority, and position. Jesus informed John what those who allow the spirit of Jezebel to teach in their midst can expect: "And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not. Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds. And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am He which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works." *** Revelation 2:21-23 God always gives room to repent. He warns those who will not repent they will suffer the time of His great tribulation which is the wrath of God. No one can say God has not warned them. Neither can they say God has not pricked their conscience that what they are doing is wrong. The spirit of Jezebel must be cast out of the pulpit. But before it can be cast out of the pulpit, it must be cast out of the Godly home. Any man who has faced the spirit of Jezebel in his home knows dealing with this spirit is not easy. Yet because of the International Year of the Woman in 1979, and the NOW Movement, many homes suffer from the spirit of Jezebel. The all-wise Solomon wrote: "It is better to dwell in a corner of the housetop, than with a brawling woman in a wide house." *** Proverbs 21:9 The brawling woman wants control of the husband, the children, the finances, and the decision making process. When they do not get it, there is open warfare. First comes the allurement. If this does not work, them comes the deception, trying to make the husband think she is on his side, wanting to do as he wishes. When this does not work, then comes the threats and intimidations. Solomon, who had one thousand wives, knew the tactics of women when he stated, "It is better to live in the corner of a roof, then to face this brawling woman. Solomon further stated: "It is better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman." *** Proverbs 21:19 As we recognize the Jezebel spirit as the new age spirit which cannot be confronted nor challenged, then we can agree with Solomon. It would be better to dwell in the wilderness, then with a contentious and angry woman. As we realize the Jezebel spirit cannot be lived with, it must be dealt with. But all too often the man settles for a place God never intended for him. Solomon wrote further about this contentious woman: "A continual dropping in a very rainy day and a contentious woman are alike." *** Proverbs 27:15 The spirit of Jezebel is a contentious spirit, and never gives up her own way. She refuses to submit to her Godly husband as ordered by God's Word. The spirit of Jezebel never forgives, and it never forgets. It will remember things for years to use against the man at the appropriate time. There is only one answer to deal with the Jezebel spirit, the man must know and stand on God's Word. He needs to be strong, unswerving in his stand. Since the Jezebel spirit is a spirit of darkness, and not of God, Spiritual warfare is necessary. God told Elijah to anoint Hazael to deal with the sins of Israel as a nation. He anointed Jehu to deal with the leadership of the Nation Israel. He anointed Elisha, the double portion ministry, to deal with the spiritual issues in Israel. God is raising up an army of Jehus and Elishas who know God's Word and operate their life by it. Jehu dealt with the spirit of Jezebel physically, but God is raising up the Elisha double portion ministry who will deal with the Jezebel spirit Spiritually. All who are going on into God's Kingdom must deal with this spirit in their life. It must be dealt with first in the home, then in the church. When the church gets Spiritually strong it will be able to deal with it in the government. God's hand of judgment is already upon this nation, the church, and the home. It is time God's anointed Jehus begin to act upon their ability in God's Word. God has promised to pour out His Spirit without measure upon those who will be part of His end time army. We must prepare our lives today to come into the place where we can receive His early and latter rain in the first month, *** Joel 2:23. To do this the spirit of Jezebel must be completely destroyed in our walk. Her thinking, her walk, and the one she serves must be completely eliminated in our life. God is waiting for the overcomers to inhabit His Kingdom. Praise the Lord! For Further Discussion *** Baal, the God of Plenty *** Think Tanks versus Godly Counsel *** "Am I The Only One Left?" *** God's Hidden Prophets *** Caves of Depression *** God's Helpmates *** The Elisha, Double Portion Ministry *** Joel's Mighty Army Marching Orders A Change of Uniforms Soldier' Endurance *** The Battle of Jezreel *** Peace! Peace! *** Mother of Whoredoms *** God's Judgments Ahab Joram Ahaziah Jezebel Their seventy sons Mystery Babylon The House of God *** The Modern Day New Age Spirit 1. What do the following words mean: Jezebel unchaste non-cohabitant Belial 2. What does the false god Baal represent? What does the false goddess Astarte represent? 3. Jezebel used her persuasive ways to control King . He became a In her hands because he refused to deal with the spirit of Jezebel. 4. Why is the spirit of Jezebel ruling in so many lives today? Why does the spirit of Jezebel rule in many churches today? 5. God is feeding His hidden prophets on the and the . 6. Elijah was able to deal with the King of Israel and the false prophets of Baal and Astarte, but he could not deal with . 7. The represents the lowest part of the , a place of . Elijah, as well as many pastors, husbands, and teachers have entered into this place of depression because they refuse to deal with . 8. What three things is a woman not to do to the man, I Timothy 2:12 and I Corinthians 14:34-35. What five things is a woman to do? Titus 2:5 9. Elisha represents the ministry God is raising up to overthrow all wickedness at the end of the age. 10. No matter how many forms of government rise and fall, God will have a who will rule and reign with Him for one thousand years. 11. Jezebel ruled Israel through as well as through his two sons, and . 12. What was the significance of the soldiers taking off their uniforms in II Kings 9:11-13 If we are to be in God's army we must put on our uniform, our . 13. Those who are part of God's army must endure and . They must not themselves with the affairs of this life. They must be totally . 14. When the Old Testament speaks of daughters it is referring to the in the New Testament. 15. There can be no peace on the earth because the earth has rejected the . 16. Judgment came upon Ahab and his whole house. Why didn't God deal with Jezebel before it destroyed the whole house of Ahab? 17. The eyes are the of the soul. 18. What Spiritual head ornament did Jezebel tire her hair with? 19. When Jezebel's alluring and deceptive ways did not work with Jehu, what did she do to try to persuade Jehu? 20. Spiritually speaking eunuchs are those who serve the king with no desire to . 21. When the Lord says, "Who is on my side?" will you be one who determines to do away with the spirit of Jezebel in your life? 22. God further asks, as Elijah did before the false prophets, "How long are you going to halt between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him. But if the god of plenty and the goddess of sex are your gods, then follow them. Choose ye this day whom you and your house will serve! Answer Key 1. What do the following words mean: Jezebel unchaste non-cohabitant Belial Jezebel means "Baal exulted, unchaste, non-cohabitant" Unchaste means "lewd, impure, and defiled" Non-cohabitant means "unhusbanded" Belial means "worthless and good for nothing" 2. What does the false god Baal represent? What does the false goddess Astarte represent? Baal represents the god of plenty and increase. Astarte represents to the goddess of sensual love and sex. 3. Jezebel used her persuasive ways to control King . He became a In her hands because he refused to deal with the spirit of Jezebel. 4. Why is the spirit of Jezebel ruling in so many lives today? Why does the spirit of Jezebel rule in many churches today? Because men of God will not stand up to the spirit of Jezebel 5. God is feeding His hidden prophets on the and the . Bread of life and the water of His Word 6. Elijah was able to deal with the King of Israel and the false prophets of Baal and Astarte, but he could not deal with . The spirit of Jezebel 7. The represents the lowest part of the , a place of . Elijah, as well as many pastors, husbands, and teachers have entered into this place of depression because they refuse to deal with . Cave of depression; lowest part of the earth; spirit of Jezebel 8. What three things is a woman not to do to the man, I Timothy 2:12 and I Corinthians 14:34-35. What five things is a woman to do? Titus 2:5 Not to teach or usurp authority over the man Not to speak in the churches They are to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, and obedient to their own husbands. 9. Elisha represents the ministry God is raising up to overthrow all wickedness at the end of the age. Double Portion Ministry 10. No matter how many forms of government rise and fall, God will have a who will rule and reign with Him for one thousand years. God will have a victorious people 11. Jezebel ruled Israel through as well as through his two sons, and . Ahab, Jehoram and Ahaziah 12. What was the significance of the soldiers taking off their uniforms in II Kings 9:11-13 If we are to be in God's army we must put on our uniform, our . This was to signify they were no longer a part of that army, and that they were ready to become part of what God was raising up in the earth. We must put on our robe of righteousness. 13. Those who are part of God's army must endure and . They must not themselves with the affairs of this life. They must be totally . Hardships and afflictions; entangle; sold out to their King 14. When the Old Testament speaks of daughters it is referring to the in the New Testament. Church 15. There can be no peace on the earth because the earth has rejected the . The earth has rejected the Prince of Peace 16. Judgment came upon Ahab and his whole house. Why didn't God deal with Jezebel before it destroyed the whole house of Ahab? God did not deal with Jezebel because God expects man to deal with the woman. When he refuses, he suffers the consequences of her sin. 17. The eyes are the of the soul. Window 18. What Spiritual head ornament did Jezebel tire her hair with? Outward appearance of righteousness 19. When Jezebel's alluring and deceptive ways did not work with Jehu, what did she do to try to persuade Jehu? She brought up the past with Zimri as threats and intimidations 20. Spiritually speaking eunuchs are those who serve the king with no desire to . No desire to reproduce self 21. When the Lord says, "Who is on my side?" will you be one who determines to do away with the spirit of Jezebel in your life? Personal answer 22. God further asks, as Elijah did before the false prophets, "How long are you going to halt between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow Him. But if the god of plenty and the goddess of sex are your gods, then follow them. Choose ye this day whom you and your house will serve! Personal answer