Chapter Summary

Elishia recovers the lost axe. Seige of Samaria by Syrians.

Discussion Questions for 2 Kings, Chapter 6

1. Who were these “sons of the prophets,” and what did they do? (ESV) If they were Elisha’s disciples, as some contend, why are they sons of the prophets (plural), rather than sons of the prophet (singular)? Does God still speak through prophets today? If so, in what ways are prophecy today similar to and different from prophecy in the Old Testament?
2. In what way was God’s anointing on Elisha made evident in verse 6? Why is it important that we acknowledge that the iron axe head floated in the water? What is at stake if we dismiss this miracle as folk lore?
3. How did God use the gift of prophecy to protect His people? Have you ever had an sudden feeling, or heard a voice in your head speak to you, and you changed your course of action, only to find out that you or someone else was encouraged by the change in direction or spared some mishap? Would you share your experience?
4. What impact do you think Elisha’s ability to see the unseen spiritual realm around him have on his boldness and faithfulness to God’s instruction? Does knowing that God has angel armies ready to fend off any adversary encourage you to live courageously for Him? What has He called you to do that you have resisted out of fear? How does the statement Elisha made in verse 16 empower you?
5. Knowing the army was there for him, and that God’s army outnumbered the Syrians, how did Elisha respond to the threat? Was Prayer Elisha’s last resort, or first response? What can we learn about prayer from Elisha’s request?
6. How did Elisha demonstrate godly compassion? Have you shown similar compassion to people who have come against you?
7. How do we see the gospel foreshadowed in Elisha’s instruction and the king’s lavish provisions?
8. What does the king’s response to the plight of his people express about his attitude toward God? Have you ever been there? What is the significance of the king tearing his clothes? Why did he have sackcloth on under his royal garments?
9. Why did the king demand Elisha’s head? Why are people quick to “shoot the messenger?” What would be a more helpful response to bad news?
10. What is the danger of not waiting for the Lord? What good is waiting for the Lord?

Key Words/Phrase

Man of God, v. 9 (Prayer, v. 17).

Characters

God, Elisha, Ben-hadad, Jehoram, nameless woman.

Strong Verse(s)

16