1. Idolatry, the seed of violence (1-14)

Jeroboam had set up two golden calves in convenient locations and had deliberately led Israel into idolatry. After him, there were frequent violent dynastic changes in Northern Israel, but each succeeding king continued this offensive policy. God sent Jehu to pronounce God's judgment on the house of Baasha. Zimri, a high ranking army officer, assassinated Elah son of Baasha when he was drunk in another man's house. Zimri became king, killed all of Baasha's family, and fulfilled Jehu's prophecy.

2. Provoking God's anger (15-34)

The Israelites did not want a murderer for a king, so they proclaimed Omri, commander of the army, king. Zimri committed suicide. Omri built Samaria and made it Israel's capital. He sinned more than all the kings before him, but his sins were minor compared to those of his son Ahab. Ahab married a woman who worshiped Baal. She hated truth and did her best to turn Israel from the worship of God.

Application: Lord, purge idols from my heart and from the heart of this nation.
One Word: An unfaithful heart provokes God's anger