Chapter Summary

Famine predicted. Jehoram restores the Shunanmite land. Reigns of Jehoram and Ahaziah of Judah and Joram of Israel.

Discussion Questions for 2 Kings, Chapter 8

1. Was it a lucky break that the Shunammite woman happened to appeal to the king for her land at the very moment Gehazi was telling the king about Elisha raising her son from the dead? What is the difference between luck and providence?
2. Why do you think God blessed this woman so much? Have you ever wondered why some people seem to catch all the breaks, while others seem to get more than their share of suffering? Why do you think that is?
3. Why would a Syrian king pay so much to inquire of an Israelite man of God? Were there no prophets in Syria? Have you ever known a person who clearly had a unique ability to discern God's will? Why is their advice better than other people's?
4. Why would God allow such a thing as this to happen to His people? How do we reconcile the realities of injustice, hate, and violence with the sovereignty of God?
5. Do you think Elisha’s answer caused Hazael to view himself differently and embolden him to act in such a way as to fulfill this prophecy? Have you ever had someone say something that changed the way you viewed yourself, and opened your eyes to an opportunity you otherwise wouldn’t have considered? What was the counsel; and what changed?
6. Why is it important to evaluate the other person’ character and faith before entering into a romantic relationship? What is the danger of entering a relationship with someone who is not following Jesus?
7. Why does it seem so much more common for an unbeliever to lead a person of faith into sin, rather than for a faithful Christian to lead an unbeliever to repentance and faith?
8. Why is God patient with those who do evil? What about those with whom He has not made a covenant?
9. How did God fulfill His promise to David after Israel was overthrown and there was no king? How is this promise currently being fulfilled? How will He ultimately fulfill it?
10. How do we see the curse throughout the generations of Ahab’s family? Have you observed generational curses in families today? What is the remedy for generational curses?

Key Words/Phrase

Prediction, vv. 1, 10.

Characters

God, Elisha, Gehazi, Jehoram, Ben-hadad, Hazael, Ahaziah, Shunanmite woman.

Strong Verse(s)

19