Milo

MARCH 20

Reading 79

ELISHA AND THE ARAMEANS 2 Kings 6–8“Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard”(2 Kings 6:10).In the most troubled of times there are still indications of God’s power and presence. Even when enemies surround, faith remains aware that God is in charge.

Background

Hostilities between Aram and Israel extend into this period. Ben-Hadad II mounted a full-scale invasion and besieged Samaria. During these years there is no evidence of a true revival in Israel, despite the active ministry of Elisha. The enemy invasion, mention of a seven-year famine, and reduction of the people of Samaria to cannibalism, are all divine judgments on an unresponsive king and people (cf. esp. Lev. 26:29; Deut. 28:53–57). Elisha’s ministry, so clear a testimony to the power and love of Israel’s God, should have stimulated a return to the Lord. Yet despite familiarity with Elisha and God’s acts through the prophet, the king and people continued to do evil.

Overview

Elisha continued to aid individuals (6:1–7), but also aided the nation. The prophet revealed the plans of the Arameans (Syrians) (vv. 8–23), and announced that God would lift the siege of starving Samaria (v. 24–7:20). Elisha’s reputation aided the Shunammite woman (8:1–6). As the age of Elisha drew to a close the prophet anointed Hazael to be king of Aram (vv. 7–15), while in Judah Jehoram (vv. 16–24) and then Ahaziah (vv. 25–29) became king.

Understanding the Text

“It was borrowed!” 2 Kings 6:1–7 The loss of a borrowed axhead was a disaster, for under the law the person who borrowed it was to repay the lender. Elisha’s miraculous intervention is an indication that God is concerned with the personal problems of individuals. God is never so busy taking care of the world that He has no time for you or me. “O Lord, open his eyes” 2 Kings 6:8–17. When Ben-Hadad II realized his raids into Israel failed because the Prophet Elisha knew his plans ahead of time and gave warning, the king sent a force of soldiers to capture him. Here again is one of the Bible’s most familiar stories, perhaps because it is so comforting. When Elisha’s servant saw the enemy army surrounding the city where they had slept, he was terrified. But when Elisha prayed, God let the servant see what Elisha knew was there: a protective army of flaming angels between them and the enemy. We may not be able to see the guard God has set around us. But faith assures us it is there. Psalm 34:7 says, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them.” “Shall I kill them?” 2 Kings 6:18–23 Elisha then led the supernaturally “blinded” Syrians into Samaria itself. When the king excitedly asked if he should kill his enemies, Elisha had him prepare a feast for them, as honored guests. We’re not told why this treatment temporarily stopped the raids on Israel (v. 23). Some suggest the kind treatment shamed Ben-Hadad. It seems more likely the Syrian king stopped in frustration. Why raid an enemy you never seem to harm? At any rate, the incident illustrates the impact of following a course later outlined in Proverbs 25 and commanded by the Apostle Paul: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.” The Christian is not to “be overcome by evil, but [to] overcome evil with good” (Rom. 12:20–21). It’s not only right to follow this principle. It works! “Ben-Hadad . . . laid siege to Samaria” 2 Kings 6:24–7:2. A full-scale invasion of Israel brought Samaria to the brink of starvation. When the desperate king confronted Elisha, the prophet promised that the very next day bushels of grain would be sold at the gate of the city. The immediate reaction of one royal officer was, “Impossible.” This is an attitude we need to guard against. Nothing is impossible with God, as the rest of the story reminds us. But we also need to learn from the unbelieving official. Elisha told him he would see what God did-but would not benefit from it. The next day that officer did see stores of food at Samaria’s gate. But he was crushed to death in the rush of the starving mob eager to get to it. Our unbelief will not keep God from working His miracles. All our unbelief will do is keep us from benefiting from them. “This is a day of good news and we are keeping it to ourselves” 2 Kings 7:3–20. These words of four lepers who discovered that the Syrians had fled their camp, leaving all their supplies, are often quoted in sermons urging Christians to personal evangelism. Good news, the news that impending death has given way to the prospect of life, is too important to be kept from dying men and women. But perhaps the role of the four lepers was even greater than appears on the surface. The Hebrew text says that they approached “the edge of the camp,” meaning that they looked for a spot at the furthest edge of the Syrian encampment where they might creep in and possibly find food. One commentator suggests that the stealthy passage of the four lepers outside the enemy lines might have been vital to the miracle. Perhaps God “magnified their stumbling footsteps,” so that they seemed like the approach of a great army, and so terrified the Arameans that “they got up and fled in the dusk” (v. 7). Whether this theory is true or not, it is surely true that as you and I take our first hesitant steps toward sharing our faith, God will already be at work in the hearts of those we approach. The God who did the impossible and fed a starving city still does the impossible, turning hard hearts to Himself in our day. “Hazael went to meet Elisha” 2 Kings 8:1–29. As Elisha’s ministry drew to a close, he was told to anoint Hazael to succeed Ben-Hadad II. The prophet obeyed, even though he wept in anguish. Elisha knew Hazael’s plot to kill and replace Ben-Hadad (cf. v. 11), and also knew that as king of Syria, Hazael would bring disaster on Israel. As the era drew to a close, two kings ruled briefly in Judah, which was soon to be drawn deeply into sin by a ruler dedicated to evil.

DEVOTIONAL

Angry with God? (2 Kings 6:24–7:20)

Is it ever right to be angry with God? Perhaps. Even Moses was angry with God for burdening him with an intractable mob of Israelites (Ex. 17:4; Num. 11:11–15). But there was something very wrong when Jehoram’s anger flared. A lengthy siege had brought Samaria to the verge of starvation. Desperate, King Jehoram even put on sackcloth, a rough, abrasive garment signifying both grief and repentance. He did not, however, wear it openly, but under his royal garments. This was a grudging admission by Jehoram that perhaps his sins had contributed to the disaster. But it fell far short of an open and public call to repentance (cf. Jonah 3:6–10). Then, walking the city walls one day, the king heard the plea of a woman who had resorted to cannibalism. He cried out in horror and rage, and his suppressed anger overflowed. “Bring me the head of Elisha,” Jehoram ordered. If the king could not strike out at God, he would at least strike at God through His prophet! Before the command could be carried out Jehoram changed his mind, and hurried to overtake the executioner. In the prophet’s house the king revealed his bitterness. “This disaster is from the Lord,” Jehoram said. And, “Why should I wait for the Lord any longer?” Think for a moment about what the king’s words and behavior reveal. Jehoram knew that God was behind the suffering of his people. Jehoram had donned sackcloth as a sign of personal repentance, and in the knowledge that Israel’s only hope was that God would act. Yet Jehoram’s “repentance” was not real. His sins had been public, yet he hid the sackcloth that signified sorrow for sin and failed to call on his people to repent. Even the horror of cannibalism did not humble Jehoram, but made him angry! Self-righteously Jehoram blamed God for not accepting his grudging confession. In complaining, “Why should I wait on the Lord any longer?” Jehoram was saying, “I’ve pushed the right buttons, God. Now, blast You, why are You making me wait?” Yes, godly men and women may be angry with God at times. But Jehoram’s anger was of a different sort. He was angry with God when he himself was to blame, and angry that God would not accept his pouting, grudging, partial, “I’m sorry.” The kind of anger Jehoram felt and finally expressed, grew from his own stubborn refusal to admit his sins and to bow in humility before the Lord.

Personal Application

Feeling angry at God may be a sign we need to check our personal relationship with Him.

Quotable

“God is not a cosmic bellboy for whom we can press a button to get things.”— Harry Emerson Fosdick

2 Kings MARCH 19

Reading 78

THE MINISTRY OF ELISHA 2 Kings 1–5“This is what the Lord says: ’I have this water’ “ (2 Kings 2:21).Where Elijah confronted kings and announced divine judgments, Elisha comforted God’s people with healing. Both ministries are important in every age.

Biography: Elisha

Elisha’s request for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit reflects the custom in Israel of the oldest son and principle heir receiving double the amount set aside for other sons. God granted Elisha’s request to become Elijah’s “heir” and God’s principle prophet in the Northern Kingdom. Elisha’s ministry was one of encouragement. Elijah had confronted Ahab and Jezebel and thwarted their attempts to make Baal dominant in Israel. Elisha’s ministries of mercy, and ministries dedicated to the protection of the nation, demonstrated the wisdom of serving God. Where Elijah emphasized God’s holiness and justice, Elisha emphasized God’s love.

Overview

Elijah announced God’s judgment on Ahaziah, Ahab’s son (1:1–18). He was then caught up into heaven, and Elisha took up his prophetic ministry (2:1–18). The tone of Elisha’s ministry was set in the healing of poison waters (vv. 19–22), his prediction of victory over Moab (3:1–27), his provision of oil for a widow (4:1–7), restoration of the Shunammite’s son (vv. 8–37), and two incidents of feeding the hungry (vv. 38–44). Elisha’s international reputation brought a Syrian general, Naaman, to Israel where he was healed of leprosy and converted (5:1–27).

Understanding the Text

“Is it because there is no God in Israel?” 2 Kings 1:1–18 Elijah’s ministry had been one of confrontation, demonstrating in decisive judgments the power and holiness of Israel’s God. This demonstration was vital at a time when Ahab and Jezebel actively promoted Baal worship in Israel (see 1 Kings 17–22). The final miracle of Elijah, calling down fire on soldiers of Ahab’s wicked son Ahaziah (cf. 2 Kings 1:10), was also intended to demonstrate to Israel that they must hold God in awe. Yet the God who is terrible in judgment is also merciful. When the captain of a third “fifty” begged for his life, he and his soldiers were spared. Judgment is certain when leaders and people lose respect for God. “When he struck the water, it divided to the right and to the left” 2 Kings 2:1–18. After long and harrowing service, in which Elijah almost single-handedly beat back the challenge mounted by the devotees of Baal, that prophet was taken up into heaven alive. His greatness is seen in Old Testament prophecy, which predicts Elijah’s return before the final coming of the Messiah (cf. Mal. 4:5–6). After Elijah was taken up, Elisha picked up the fallen cloak of his mentor. Returning to the Jordan he struck the waters as Elijah had. The fact that it parted for him also showed Elisha that his prayer was answered, and he was to take Elijah’s place as Israel’s premier prophet. It’s difficult when a significant leader dies. Yet God raises up leaders from the next generation to continue His work. The roster of human leaders constantly changes, but God remains the same. He is the One on whom we must always depend. “In the name of the Lord” 2 Kings 2:19–25. Two miracles symbolize Elisha’s ministry. Its comforting and compassionate nature are shown in the purifying of Jericho’s waters. The act symbolized the blessing that could be Israel’s through relationship with God the Healer. The death of the youths (not children, as the KJV implies) who jeered Elisha symbolized that prophet’s role as representative of the holy God. God yearns to bless His people. But God must be respected as Lord. “How can I help you?” 2 Kings 4:1–44 Elisha’s question to a widow whose sons were about to be sold as slaves to pay a debt, sums up the mission of this minister to Israel’s common people. Elijah confronted kings. Elisha moved quietly among the people of the land. His ministry revealed what God would do for Israel if His people returned fully to Him. Elisha’s multiplication of the widow’s oil showed God’s ability to free His people from servitude (vv. 1–7). Elisha’s promise of a child to the Shunammite, and his subsequent restoration of the child to life, showed God’s ability to preserve the lives of His people (vv. 8–37). Elisha’s purification of poisonous stew and his feeding of a hundred men with 20 small barley buns, showed God’s ability to provide all that His people needed, and more (vv. 38–44). Thus Elisha’s ministry was primarily one of revealing the love of God. The last three foreshadow miracles performed by Jesus with the same intent. God walks among us to heal and sustain, not to harm or condemn. Through Elisha, as through Jesus, men and women discovered the overwhelming love of God. “Gehazi hurried after Naaman” 2 Kings 5:19–27. Elisha refused any reward for healing the Syrian general, Naaman, of leprosy. His servant Gehazi, however, chased after Naaman, and accepted some 75 pounds of silver and other expensive gifts. In judgment Gehazi was cursed with Naaman’s leprosy, and expelled from Elisha’s presence. Elisha had refused wealth, for he wanted Naaman to view his healing as a gift from God, not something he had purchased. Ministry freely offered and freely received is the purest, for it reflects the unique quality of grace that marks God’s relationship with humankind.

DEVOTIONAL

General Principles (2 Kings 5)

Preachers throughout the ages have seen it. The story of Naaman, a general in the Syrian army, mirrors many truths about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Is it easy to see these truths? Why not see if you can draw some general principles about the Gospel and communicating the Gospel from the experience of General Naaman? Here are several elements found in this Bible story. * Leprosy in Scripture is often a symbol of sin. Naaman was stricken with leprosy, and unable to help or heal himself. * Naaman learned from a young Israelite girl that there was hope. * Naaman was upset by what the prophet told him to do for healing. The prophet’s instructions did not fit his preconceived notions. * Naaman, after being urged by his servants, decided to try Elisha’s prescription anyway. * Naaman was completely cleansed, and realized that “there is no God in all the world” except the Lord. * Naaman promised to worship the Lord only, and committed himself completely to Him. And, oh, yes. After you translate these elements of the story into general principles, you might enjoy reading the story again to see if you can find even more.

Personal Application

Which of the “general principles” you found in this story are most helpful as you think of sharing Christ with others?

Quotable

“Elisha’s is the type of ministry which may be ours. No one of us may be an Elijah, but everyone of us may be an Elisha. If possessed by God’s Holy Spirit, we may perform deeds of mercy which will seem like miracles in other men’s eyes. The character and career of Elisha are often disparaged in comparison with the more heroic figure of Elijah. Yet his beneficent life, less spectacular and more humane, is the inspired symbol of a ministry which lies within the reach of us all. Small kindnesses, small courtesies, small considerations, habitually practiced, give a greater charm to the character and often do more good in the world than great accomplishments.”—Raymond Calkins

2 Kings

INTRODUCTION

Second Kings picks up the history of the Divided Hebrew Kingdom where 1 Kings left off. The progressive decline of the Northern Kingdom was unbroken by any hint of revival, ending with its conquest by Assyria in 722 B.C. The Southern Kingdom, Judah, survived the Assyrian threat, but it too deteriorated spiritually and was finally crushed by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. Second Kings again features stories of God’s prophets and their relationships with the rulers of the two kingdoms. Most prominent among the prophets are Elijah and Elisha, while godly kings responsible for Judah’s preservation include Joash, Hezekiah, and Josiah.

OUTLINE OF CONTENTS

I.	Elijah and Elisha	2 Kings 1:1–8:15
II.	Israel’s Decline	2 Kings 8:16–17:41
III.	Judah and Assyria	2 Kings 18–23
IV.	Judah and Babylon	2 Kings 24–25

March 1
BRING THEM IN
Alexcenah Thomas, 19th century
I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. (John 10:16)
During this month our attention is often focused on the ministry of our Sunday schools. The Sunday school has been the church’s chief agency for reaching and teaching children for the past two centuries. It would be impossible to measure the extent of its spiritual influence during that time.
The Sunday school movement began in England during the lifetime of Robert Raikes (1736–1811), who was often called the “founder of the modern Sunday school.” Raikes became intensely concerned with the spiritual and social conditions of the great masses of poor illiterate children. Since education was reserved for the wealthy, four out of five poor children had no schooling. Child labor was shamefully exploited. In the midst of these conditions Raikes began taking children off the streets and teaching them biblical truths as well as the ability to read and write.
Later the followers of John and Charles Wesley, the Methodists, began establishing Sunday schools, first in England and then in America following the Revolutionary War. Still later the Sunday school movement was encouraged further by the founding of the American Sunday School Union in 1824. As this concern for children developed, it became apparent to Christian leaders that music is a natural means for working with children, since most children respond readily to musical activities. This desire to reach and teach children for Christ through appropriate songs was one of the important factors that led to the rise of the gospel song movement during the latter half of the 19th century.
“Bring Them In” has been widely used since being published in 1885 by its composer William Ogden, who was known for his work with children’s music.
Hark! ’tis the Shepherd’s voice I hear, out in the desert dark and drear, calling the sheep who’ve gone astray far from the Shepherd’s fold away.
Who’ll go and help this Shepherd kind, help Him the wand’ring one to find? Who’ll bring the lost ones to the fold where they’ll be sheltered from the cold?
Out in the desert hear their cry, out on the mountains wild and high. Hark! ’tis the Master speaks to thee, “Go find my sheep where’er they be.”
Chorus: Bring them in, bring them in, bring them in from the fields of sin; bring them in, bring them in, bring the wand’ring ones to Jesus.

For Today: Psalm 96:2, 3; Proverbs 11:30; Matthew 13:39; Matthew 18:12

Spend time in prayer for your church Sunday school—the leaders and teachers who have assumed the important responsibility of ministering the Christian faith to children and youth. At your first opportunity let them know of your prayerful concern and appreciation for their work.

March

• Sunday School Favorites • Songs For and About Children/Youth

1.

Bring Them In
2.

Jesus Loves Me
3.

O How I Love Jesus
4.

Wonderful Words of Life
5.

Thy Word Is Like a Garden, Lord
6.

No, Not One!
7.

Brighten the Corner
8.

Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
9.

The Lord’s My Shepherd
10.

Shepherd of Eager Youth
11.

Dare to Be a Daniel
12.

I Would Be True
13.

Yield Not to Temptation
14.

Standing on the Promises
15.

More Secure Is No One Ever
16.

Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
17.

Trust and Obey
18.

I Must Tell Jesus
19.

Be Thou My Vision
20.

Higher Ground
21.

Redeemed
22.

Nothing But the Blood
23.

There Shall Be Showers of Blessing
24.

Let the Lower Lights Be Burning
25.

When He Cometh
26.

We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder
27.

We’re Marching to Zion
28.

When the Roll Is Called Up Yonder
29.

When We All Get to Heaven
30.

Now the Day Is Over
31.

Tell Me the Stories of Jesus