2 Kings 4:16

And Elisha declared, "At this time next year, you will hold a son in your arms." "No, my lord," she said. "Do not lie to your maidservant, O man of God."

Study Bible

And he said
This phrase introduces the speaker, the prophet Elisha, who is a central figure in the narrative of 2 Kings. Elisha, as a prophet, serves as God's mouthpiece, delivering divine messages to the people of Israel. The role of a prophet in ancient Israel was crucial, as they were seen as intermediaries between God and His people. Elisha's words carry the weight of divine authority, emphasizing the importance of the message that follows.

At this time next year
This phrase is a prophetic declaration, indicating a specific time frame for the fulfillment of God's promise. In the Hebrew context, time is often seen as cyclical, with significant events occurring at appointed times. The specificity of "next year" underscores the certainty and imminence of God's intervention. It reflects the biblical theme of God's perfect timing, as seen in other scriptural promises and fulfillments.

you will hold a son in your arms
The promise of a son is significant in the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel. Sons were seen as a blessing and a means of continuing the family lineage. The Hebrew word for "son" (בֵּן, ben) carries connotations of building and continuation. This promise is particularly poignant for the Shunammite woman, who was previously childless, highlighting God's power to bring life and hope where there was none. The imagery of holding a son in one's arms conveys intimacy, fulfillment, and the tangible realization of God's promise.

No, my lord
The woman's response begins with a respectful address, "my lord," acknowledging Elisha's authority and position. Her initial reaction of disbelief or hesitation is understandable, given her previous barrenness. This reflects a common human response to divine promises that seem impossible or too good to be true. It also highlights the theme of faith and doubt, which runs throughout the biblical narrative.

she objected
The word "objected" indicates a strong emotional response, possibly rooted in past disappointments or fear of unfulfilled hopes. This moment captures the tension between human skepticism and divine assurance. It serves as a reminder of the struggle to trust in God's promises, especially when they challenge our understanding or past experiences.

Do not lie to your maidservant!
The plea not to be deceived reveals the depth of the woman's vulnerability and desire for truth. In the ancient Near Eastern context, truthfulness was a highly valued virtue, especially in prophetic utterances. Her use of "maidservant" signifies humility and submission, acknowledging her position before the prophet and, by extension, before God. This plea underscores the human longing for genuine, trustworthy promises and the fear of misplaced hope.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet of God who succeeded Elijah. Known for performing miracles and being a conduit of God's power and messages.

2. Shunammite Woman
A wealthy and hospitable woman from Shunem who showed kindness to Elisha by providing him with a place to stay. She is central to this account as the recipient of Elisha's prophecy.

3. Shunem
A town in the territory of Issachar, where the Shunammite woman lived. It is significant as the setting for this miraculous event.

4. Prophecy of a Son
The event where Elisha prophesies that the Shunammite woman will have a son, despite her initial disbelief.

5. Man of God
A term used to refer to prophets like Elisha, emphasizing their role as messengers and representatives of God's will.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Despite her initial disbelief, the Shunammite woman's account encourages believers to trust in God's promises, even when they seem impossible.

Hospitality and Blessing
The Shunammite woman's hospitality towards Elisha demonstrates how acts of kindness can lead to unexpected blessings from God.

God's Timing
The prophecy's fulfillment "at this time next year" reminds us that God's timing is perfect and often requires patience and trust.

Role of Prophets
Elisha's role as a "man of God" underscores the importance of spiritual leaders who convey God's messages and guide His people.

Miracles and Faith
The miraculous birth of the Shunammite woman's son illustrates the power of faith and God's ability to work beyond human limitations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Shunammite woman's initial reaction to Elisha's prophecy reflect common human responses to seemingly impossible promises from God?

2. In what ways can we practice hospitality in our own lives, and how might this open us to receiving God's blessings?

3. How does the account of the Shunammite woman encourage us to trust in God's timing, especially when waiting for answers to our prayers?

4. What role do spiritual leaders play in our lives today, and how can we discern true messages from God through them?

5. How can we strengthen our faith to believe in God's power to perform miracles in our lives, as seen in the account of the Shunammite woman?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 18:10-14
The promise of a son to Sarah, Abraham's wife, parallels the promise to the Shunammite woman, highlighting themes of divine intervention and fulfillment of God's promises.

1 Samuel 1:17-20
Hannah's prayer for a child and the subsequent birth of Samuel mirrors the Shunammite woman's experience, emphasizing faith and God's response to human desires.

Luke 1:13-20
The announcement of John the Baptist's birth to Zechariah shares similarities with Elisha's prophecy, showcasing God's power to bring life and fulfill promises.