Yahweh, Israel’s Hope & Help
“History is not a random series of meaningless events. It is rather a succession of periods and happenings which are under the sovereign rule of God, who is the God of history.”
John Stott
Outline of 2 Kings 3:
- Jehoram becomes king of Israel (3:1-3)
- Moab rebels and a coalition forms (3:4-8)
- Trouble strikes and a word from the Lord is sought (3:9-12)
- Elisha prophesies a double promise (3:13-19)
- Double fulfillment occurs (3:20-27)
“If you receive any benefit from God it is because you stand next to the Davidic king — Jesus, the descendant of David and Jehoshaphat. You are in exactly the same position as Jehoram. You don’t deserve heaven’s crumbs but receive massive mercies only because Jesus, the Davidic king, stands beside you.”
Dale Ralph Davis
Outline of 2 Kings 4:
- Elisha and the widow’s oil (4:1-7)
- Elisha and the Shunammite Woman (4:8-17)
- Elisha raises the Shunammite Son (4:18-37)
- Elisha purifies the deadly stew (4:38-44)
“When Yahweh provides, whether amazingly or routinely, he frequently designs not merely to supply your need but to build your faith and spark your obedience in the process.”
Dale Ralph Davis
2 Kings 3 & 4
- God is not only omnipotent, He is also generous.
- Regardless of our status, we have access to God in our troubles.
Discussion Questions
- In chapter 3, Elisha points out that Jehoram’s sudden desire to hear from the Lord seems inconsistent, especially considering the account of his parents and their Baal worship in 1 Kings. Today, how are even believers sometimes guilty of seeking resources other than God and His word for guidance or direction?
- In chapter 4, Elisha encounters people who appear to be faithful but are experiencing suffering. Does it seem to be unfair when bad things happen to God’s people?
- In both chapters, Yahweh provides more than what was needed or asked for. How has God shown you blessings that seem to overflow beyond expectation?
