2 Kings 6:16

"Do not be afraid," Elisha answered, "for those who are with us are more than those who are with them."

Study Bible

Do not be afraid
This phrase is a common biblical exhortation, appearing numerous times throughout Scripture. In Hebrew, the phrase is "אַל־תִּירָא" (al-tirah), which directly translates to "do not fear." This command is often given by God or His messengers to reassure His people in times of distress or uncertainty. The context here is Elisha speaking to his servant, who is overwhelmed by the sight of the Aramean army surrounding them. The command not to fear is rooted in the understanding that God is sovereign and His presence is a source of protection and strength. Historically, this reflects the consistent message of God’s faithfulness to Israel, encouraging believers to trust in divine providence over visible circumstances.

Elisha answered
Elisha, whose name means "God is salvation," is a prominent prophet in the Old Testament, succeeding Elijah. His role as a prophet was to convey God's messages and perform miracles that demonstrated God's power and authority. In this narrative, Elisha's response is not just a personal reassurance but a prophetic declaration of God's protection. The historical context of Elisha's ministry during the divided kingdom of Israel and Judah highlights the political and military tensions of the time, making his words of faith and assurance even more significant.

For those who are with us
This phrase emphasizes the presence of divine forces that are unseen but very real. The Hebrew word "אִתָּנוּ" (ittanu) means "with us," indicating companionship and support. In the biblical narrative, this refers to the heavenly army that God has sent to protect Elisha and his servant. This concept is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as Psalm 91, which speaks of God's angels guarding His people. Theologically, this reassures believers of the spiritual reality that God’s protection often transcends human perception.

are more than those who are with them
This concluding phrase contrasts the visible, physical forces of the Aramean army with the invisible, spiritual forces of God. The Hebrew word "רַבִּים" (rabbim) means "many" or "more," underscoring the superiority of God's power over earthly powers. This statement is a profound declaration of faith, encouraging believers to trust in God's omnipotence. Historically, this reflects the biblical theme of God’s people often being outnumbered or outmatched by worldly standards, yet victorious through divine intervention. It serves as a reminder that God’s resources and support are always greater than any opposition faced by His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet of God, successor to Elijah, known for his miracles and guidance to the kings of Israel.

2. Servant of Elisha
The unnamed servant who was fearful upon seeing the enemy army surrounding them.

3. Arameans (Syrians)
The enemy army that surrounded the city where Elisha and his servant were staying.

4. Dothan
The city where Elisha and his servant were located when the Aramean army surrounded them.

5. Heavenly Army
The spiritual forces of God, unseen by the servant until Elisha prayed for his eyes to be opened.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Protection
Believers are called to trust in God's unseen protection, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Spiritual Awareness
We should pray for spiritual insight to recognize God's presence and power in our lives.

Fear Not
Fear is a natural response, but faith in God's sovereignty should be our guiding principle.

God's Sovereignty
God's power and resources are infinitely greater than any earthly threat or challenge.

Intercessory Prayer
Like Elisha, we can pray for others to have their spiritual eyes opened to God's truth and presence.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elisha's response to his servant's fear challenge us to respond to our own fears today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a greater awareness of the spiritual realities around us?

3. How can the assurance of God's protection change the way we approach difficult situations?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to remind ourselves of God's sovereignty in our daily lives?

5. How can we intercede for others to experience a deeper understanding of God's presence and power?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 34:7
This verse speaks of the angel of the Lord encamping around those who fear Him, providing a parallel to the protection Elisha and his servant experienced.

Romans 8:31
Paul’s declaration that if God is for us, who can be against us, echoes the assurance Elisha gives to his servant.

Ephesians 6:12
This passage reminds believers of the spiritual nature of our battles, similar to the unseen forces Elisha revealed.

Hebrews 1:14
Discusses angels as ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation, akin to the heavenly army protecting Elisha.

2 Corinthians 4:18
Encourages believers to fix their eyes on the unseen, eternal realities, much like Elisha’s servant needed to see beyond the physical.