2 Kings 6
BSB1 Now the sons of the prophets said to Elisha, “Please take note that the place where we meet with you is too small for us. 2 Please let us go to the Jordan, where each of us can get a log so we can build ourselves a place to live there.” “Go,” said Elisha. 3 Then one of them said, “Please come with your servants.” “I will come,” he replied. 4 So Elisha went with them, and when they came to the Jordan, they began to cut down some trees. 5 As one of them was cutting down a tree, the iron axe head fell into the water. “Oh, my master,” he cried out, “it was borrowed!" 6 “Where did it fall?” asked the man of God. And when he showed him the place, the man of God cut a stick, threw it there, and made the iron float. 7 “Lift it out,” he said, and the man reached out his hand and took it. 8 Now the king of Aram was at war against Israel. After consulting with his servants, he said, “My camp will be in such and such a place." 9 Then the man of God sent word to the king of Israel: “Be careful passing by this place, for the Arameans are going down there." 10 So the king of Israel sent word to the place the man of God had pointed out. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places. 11 For this reason the king of Aram became enraged and called his servants to demand of them, “Tell me, which one of us is on the side of the king of Israel?" 12 But one of his servants replied, “No one, my lord the king. For Elisha, the prophet in Israel, tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom." 13 So the king said, “Go and see where he is, that I may send men to capture him.” On receiving the report, “Elisha is in Dothan," 14 the king of Aram sent horses, chariots, and a great army. They went there by night and surrounded the city. 15 When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early in the morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. So he asked Elisha, “Oh, my master, what are we to do?" 16 “Do not be afraid,” Elisha answered, “for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." 17 Then Elisha prayed, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw that the hills were full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 18 As the Arameans came down against him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, “Please strike these people with blindness.” So He struck them with blindness, according to the word of Elisha. 19 And Elisha told them, “This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will take you to the man you are seeking.” And he led them to Samaria. 20 When they had entered Samaria, Elisha said, “O LORD, open the eyes of these men that they may see.” Then the LORD opened their eyes, and they looked around and discovered that they were in Samaria. 21 And when the king of Israel saw them, he asked Elisha, “My father, shall I kill them? Shall I kill them?" 22 “Do not kill them,” he replied. “Would you kill those you have captured with your own sword or bow? Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink and then return to their master." 23 So the king prepared a great feast for them, and after they had finished eating and drinking, he sent them away, and they returned to their master. And the Aramean raiders did not come into the land of Israel again. 24 Some time later, Ben-hadad king of Aram assembled his entire army and marched up to besiege Samaria. 25 So there was a great famine in Samaria. Indeed, they besieged the city so long that a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter cab of dove’s dung sold for five shekels of silver. 26 As the king of Israel was passing by on the wall, a woman cried out to him, “Help me, my lord the king!" 27 He answered, “If the LORD does not help you, where can I find help for you? From the threshing floor or the winepress?" 28 Then the king asked her, “What is the matter?” And she answered, “This woman said to me, ‘Give up your son, that we may eat him, and tomorrow we will eat my son.’ 29 So we boiled my son and ate him, and the next day I said to her, ‘Give up your son, that we may eat him.’ But she had hidden her son." 30 When the king heard the words of the woman, he tore his clothes. And as he passed by on the wall, the people saw the sackcloth under his clothes next to his skin. 31 He announced, “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if the head of Elisha son of Shaphat remains on his shoulders through this day!" 32 Now Elisha was sitting in his house, and the elders were sitting with him. The king sent a messenger ahead, but before he arrived, Elisha said to the elders, “Do you see how this murderer has sent someone to cut off my head? Look, when the messenger comes, shut the door to keep him out. Is not the sound of his master’s footsteps behind him?" 33 While Elisha was still speaking with them, the messenger came down to him. And the king said, “This calamity is from the LORD. Why should I wait for the LORD any longer?"
Study Notes — 2 Kings 6
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Kings 6
- Themes from 2 Kings 6
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Kings 6
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the prophets approaching Elisha to expand their living quarters, which leads to the miracle of the axhead floating on water (2 Kings 6:1-7). Then, it narrates the story of the Syrian army's attempts to capture Elisha, which are thwarted by God's intervention, including striking the army with blindness and later restoring their sight (2 Kings 6:8-23). The chapter also describes the siege of Samaria by the Syrian army, during which a severe famine afflicts the city, and the subsequent relief brought by God's intervention (2 Kings 6:24-33). These stories demonstrate God's sovereignty and care for His people, even in the midst of adversity.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 2 Kings, which describes the history of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The events in this chapter occur during the reign of King Jehoram of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, and are part of the broader story of God's relationship with His people. The chapter's themes of God's providence and protection are consistent with the overall message of the book, which emphasizes God's sovereignty and care for His people.
Heart Application
The chapter encourages believers to trust in God's power and presence, even in the face of adversity. Just as Elisha and the prophets trusted in God's provision, believers can have confidence in God's care and sovereignty over their lives. This trust should lead to a deeper faith and obedience, as seen in the prophets' actions and Elisha's words.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells us about the power and care of God for His people. We see this in the stories of Elisha and the prophets, who trust in God's provision and power. Even when things seem impossible, God can do great things. We can learn from their example to trust in God, just like they did (2 Kings 6:16).
Voices from the Church
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. This is the story of God's people, who, despite their failures and weaknesses, are lifted up by God's power and presence.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The providence of God is the sovereign and all-embracing decree by which He governs all things. This decree is not limited to the affairs of men, but extends to all creatures and events, guiding them towards their ultimate end.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Miracle of the Axhead (6:1-7) — The prophets approach Elisha to expand their living quarters, leading to the miracle of the axhead floating on water.
- The Syrian Army's Attempts to Capture Elisha (6:8-14) — The Syrian army tries to capture Elisha, but God intervenes, striking them with blindness.
- The Restoration of the Syrian Army's Sight (6:15-23) — Elisha leads the Syrian army to Samaria, where their sight is restored, and they are fed and sent back to their master.
- The Siege of Samaria (6:24-33) — The Syrian army besieges Samaria, leading to a severe famine, but God brings relief through His intervention.
- The Fulfillment of God's Promise (6:24-33) — The chapter concludes with the fulfillment of God's promise to bring relief to Samaria, demonstrating His power and care for His people.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- This chapter teaches that God's providence is sovereign and all-embracing, guiding all events and creatures towards their ultimate end.
- Faith
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and presence, as seen in the examples of Elisha and the prophets.
- God's Sovereignty
- The events in the chapter demonstrate God's sovereignty over all earthly powers and forces, including the Syrian army.
- Redemption
- The chapter points to the greater reality of God's redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the mediator between God and humanity.
Lessons from 2 Kings 6
- Trust in God's Power and Presence — The chapter teaches us to trust in God's power and presence, even in the face of adversity, just like Elisha and the prophets.
- The Importance of Faith — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and presence, as seen in the examples of Elisha and the prophets.
- God's Sovereignty over All Earthly Powers — The events in the chapter demonstrate God's sovereignty over all earthly powers and forces, including the Syrian army.
- The Fulfillment of God's Promises — The chapter teaches us that God is faithful to fulfill His promises, as seen in the relief brought to Samaria.
- The Ultimate Reality of God's Redemption — The chapter points to the greater reality of God's redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the mediator between God and humanity.
Themes from 2 Kings 6
- God's Providence — The chapter highlights God's providence and care for His people, as seen in the stories of Elisha and the prophets.
- Faith and Trust — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and presence, as seen in the examples of Elisha and the prophets.
- God's Sovereignty — The events in the chapter demonstrate God's sovereignty over all earthly powers and forces, including the Syrian army.
- Redemption — The chapter points to the greater reality of God's redemption, which is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the mediator between God and humanity.
- The Power of Prayer — The chapter teaches us about the power of prayer and the importance of seeking God's guidance and intervention in our lives.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the miracle of the axhead teach us about God's power and presence?
- How does Elisha's trust in God's power and presence inspire us to trust in God's sovereignty over our lives?
- What does the contrast between God's people and the Syrian army reveal about God's character and purposes?
- How does the chapter's emphasis on faith and trust in God's power and presence apply to our lives today?
- What does the fulfillment of God's promise to bring relief to Samaria teach us about God's faithfulness and care for His people?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Miracle of the Axhead (6:1-7)
| 6:1 | The prophets approach Elisha to expand their living quarters. |
| 6:2 | Elisha agrees, and they go to the Jordan River to cut down trees. |
| 6:3 | One of the prophets loses his axhead in the river. |
| 6:4 | Elisha throws a stick into the water, and the axhead floats to the surface. |
| 6:5 | The prophet retrieves his axhead. |
| 6:6 | Elisha's miracle demonstrates God's power and care for His people. |
| 6:7 | The prophets continue their work, encouraged by Elisha's example. |
2. The Syrian Army's Attempts to Capture Elisha (6:8-14)
| 6:8 | The king of Syria tries to capture Elisha, but God reveals his plans to Elisha. |
| 6:9 | Elisha warns the king of Israel about the Syrian army's plans. |
| 6:10 | The king of Israel takes action to protect himself. |
| 6:11 | The king of Syria becomes angry and sends his army to capture Elisha. |
| 6:12 | Elisha's servant is afraid, but Elisha reassures him that God is with them. |
| 6:13 | Elisha prays for his servant's eyes to be opened, and he sees the heavenly army surrounding them. |
| 6:14 | The Syrian army is struck with blindness, and Elisha leads them to Samaria. |
3. The Restoration of the Syrian Army's Sight (6:15-23)
| 6:15 | The Syrian army is led to Samaria, where their sight is restored. |
| 6:16 | Elisha's servant is amazed by the heavenly army surrounding them. |
| 6:17 | Elisha prays for his servant's eyes to be opened, and he sees the heavenly army. |
| 6:18 | The Syrian army is fed and sent back to their master. |
| 6:19 | The Syrian army does not come back to Israel. |
| 6:20 | The king of Israel wants to attack the Syrian army, but Elisha forbids it. |
| 6:21 | The king of Israel feeds the Syrian army and sends them back to their master. |
| 6:22 | The Syrian army does not come back to Israel. |
| 6:23 | The king of Syria sends his army to besiege Samaria. |
4. The Siege of Samaria (6:24-33)
| 6:24 | The Syrian army besieges Samaria, leading to a severe famine. |
| 6:25 | The famine is so severe that people eat donkeys and pigeons. |
| 6:26 | The king of Israel is desperate and wants to kill Elisha. |
| 6:27 | Elisha prophesies that the siege will be lifted and food will be plentiful again. |
| 6:28 | The king's officer does not believe Elisha's prophecy. |
| 6:29 | The officer is trampled to death in the gate of Samaria. |
| 6:30 | The king of Israel tears his clothes when he hears the news. |
| 6:31 | The king of Israel wants to kill Elisha, but Elisha prophesies that the siege will be lifted. |
| 6:32 | The king's messengers come to Elisha with the news of the siege. |
| 6:33 | The king of Israel is desperate and wants to kill Elisha, but Elisha prophesies that the siege will be lifted. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the miracle of the axhead?
The miracle of the axhead demonstrates God's power and care for His people, as seen in the story of Elisha and the prophets (2 Kings 6:1-7).
Why did the Syrian army try to capture Elisha?
The Syrian army tried to capture Elisha because they saw him as a threat to their plans, but God intervened and protected Elisha (2 Kings 6:8-14).
What is the meaning of Elisha's prophecy about the siege of Samaria?
Elisha's prophecy about the siege of Samaria (2 Kings 6:24-33) demonstrates God's power and care for His people, as well as His sovereignty over all earthly powers and forces.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Kings 6:1 → Exodus 4:2 | The miracle of the axhead is reminiscent of Moses' staff, which was used to perform miracles in Exodus. |
| 2 | 2 Kings 6:8 → Psalm 121:1-2 | The king of Syria's attempts to capture Elisha are similar to the Psalmist's trust in God's protection and care. |
| 3 | 2 Kings 6:16 → Romans 8:31 | Elisha's words to his servant are similar to the apostle Paul's statement about God's power and presence in Romans. |
| 4 | 2 Kings 6:24 → Deuteronomy 28:53 | The siege of Samaria and the resulting famine are similar to the curses described in Deuteronomy. |
| 5 | 2 Kings 6:27 → Isaiah 45:7 | Elisha's prophecy about the siege of Samaria is similar to the prophet Isaiah's statement about God's sovereignty over all things. |
| 6 | 2 Kings 6:31 → Psalm 38:9 | The king of Israel's desperation and desire to kill Elisha are similar to the Psalmist's cry for help in times of trouble (Psalm 38:9). |
| 7 | 2 Kings 6:33 → John 16:33 | The king of Israel's desperation and Elisha's prophecy are similar to Jesus' statement about overcoming the world in John. |
| 8 | 2 Kings 6:1-7 → Matthew 14:13-21 | The miracle of the axhead is reminiscent of Jesus' feeding of the 5,000 in Matthew. |
| 9 | 2 Kings 6:8-14 → Acts 12:6-11 | The Syrian army's attempts to capture Elisha are similar to the angel's rescue of Peter from prison in Acts. |
| 10 | 2 Kings 6:24-33 → Revelation 6:5-6 | The siege of Samaria and the resulting famine are similar to the fourth seal in Revelation, which describes a time of famine and death. |
Sermons on 2 Kings 6
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Gods Presence by Kathryn Kuhlman | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God is interested in each individual as if they were the only person in the world. He uses the story of Elisha and his servant to illus |
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The Axehead by Lester Roloff | In this sermon, the speaker, Dr. Jones, addresses the audience about the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. He references the story of King David and his affair with |
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Actuality or Reality by Manley Beasley | In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of turning to the Word of God amidst the confusion and changing circumstances of the world. He quotes 2 Corinthians 4:18, which |
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Look Who's Here by Vance Havner | This sermon draws inspiration from various biblical stories like the three Hebrew children who stood firm in their faith, Elijah on Mount Carmel demonstrating the need for divine i |
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(1 Kings) the Work of Unknown Prophets by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of fulfilling the tasks and responsibilities that God has given us. He warns against the temptation of almost completing the |
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Restore the Joy by Del Fehsenfeld Jr. | In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a college student who loses a borrowed axe head in the Jordan River. The student cries out for help, and the man of God asks where |
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(2 Kings) Two Lepers and the Blind Men by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the king of Israel's anger and desperation during a famine. The king initially blames the people for their situation, but eventua |
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The Strength of Seeing by Chip Brogden | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the desperate times we are living in, with conflicts, terrorism, and immorality plaguing the world. He emphasizes the fear and uncertainty tha |
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When Spiritual Famine Invades the Church by Brad Allen | In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a miraculous healing of an old Chinese lady named Sister Keo who had not taken a step in 20 years. This event serves as a reminder |
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Praise by Hans R. Waldvogel | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Elijah and his servant when they saw the mountains full of chariots, representing the enemy. The preacher emphasizes that when w |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Kings 6
In this chapter, we see the power and care of God for His people, as demonstrated in the stories of Elisha and the prophets. The miracle of the axhead (2 Kings 6:1-7) shows God's power and presence in the lives of His people. The Syrian army's attempts to capture Elisha (2 Kings 6:8-14) demonstrate God's sovereignty over all earthly powers and forces. The siege of Samaria (2 Kings 6:24-33) and the resulting famine show God's judgment on those who oppose Him, but also His care and provision for His people. Through these events, we see the importance of faith and trust in God's power and presence, as well as the ultimate reality of God's redemption, which is fulfilled in Christ. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
God's Intervention
Throughout the chapter, God intervenes in the lives of His people, demonstrating His power and care. This is seen in the miracle of the axhead, the blinding and restoration of the Syrian army, and the relief from the siege of Samaria.
The Importance of Faith
The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God's power and presence. Elisha's words to his servant (2 Kings 6:16) and the prophets' actions reflect this theme.
The Contrast between God's People and Their Enemies
The chapter contrasts the faith and trust of God's people with the opposition and hostility of the Syrian army, highlighting God's sovereignty and power over all earthly forces.