2 Kings 7:14

Then the scouts took two chariots with horses, and the king sent them after the Aramean army, saying, "Go and see."

Study Bible

So the chariots with horses were prepared
In the ancient Near Eastern context, chariots and horses were symbols of military strength and power. The Hebrew word for "chariots" is "רֶכֶב" (rekeb), which often denotes a formidable force in battle. The preparation of chariots signifies readiness and urgency, reflecting the king's immediate response to the news of the Aramean retreat. This action underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential threats, a principle that resonates with the Christian call to be spiritually prepared and vigilant.

and the king sent them
The king's decision to send the chariots demonstrates leadership and initiative. In the Hebrew text, the verb "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) implies a deliberate and authoritative action. This reflects the king's responsibility to protect his people and verify the truth of the situation. From a spiritual perspective, this can be seen as a parallel to the Christian duty to discern truth and act upon it, guided by wisdom and faith.

after the Aramean army
The Arameans were a significant military power during this period, often in conflict with Israel. The phrase "after the Aramean army" indicates a pursuit, suggesting that the king sought to confirm the enemy's retreat and ensure the safety of his people. Historically, the Arameans' sudden withdrawal was a miraculous event orchestrated by God, as described earlier in the chapter. This highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to deliver His people from seemingly insurmountable odds.

saying, 'Go and see.'
The command "Go and see" is a directive for investigation and confirmation. The Hebrew verb "see" (רָאָה, ra'ah) implies not just physical sight but understanding and perception. This instruction reflects a prudent approach to leadership, emphasizing the need for verification and discernment. In a spiritual sense, it encourages believers to seek understanding and clarity in their walk with God, trusting in His guidance to reveal truth and direction.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The King of Israel
The ruler who is skeptical of the prophet Elisha's prophecy about the end of the famine and sends scouts to verify the situation.

2. The Aramean Army
The enemy forces besieging Samaria, causing a severe famine in the city. They flee after hearing a divinely induced sound of a great army.

3. The Chariots and Horses
The means by which the king's scouts are sent to investigate the Aramean camp, symbolizing the urgency and importance of the mission.

4. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, under siege by the Arameans, leading to desperate conditions.

5. Elisha
The prophet who foretells the end of the famine, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

Teaching Points

Divine Intervention
God's power can change dire circumstances in an instant. Trust in His timing and sovereignty, even when situations seem hopeless.

Faith vs. Skepticism
The king's initial skepticism contrasts with Elisha's faith. Believers are called to trust God's promises, even when they seem improbable.

Obedience and Action
The king's decision to send scouts reflects a willingness to act on the possibility of God's intervention. Faith often requires us to take steps forward, trusting in God's guidance.

God's Provision
Just as God provided deliverance from the Arameans, He provides for our needs. We should look to Him as our ultimate source of provision.

The Role of Prophets
Elisha's role highlights the importance of listening to God's messengers. We should be attentive to God's word and those He uses to speak truth into our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the king's response to Elisha's prophecy reflect human tendencies to doubt God's promises? How can we overcome such skepticism in our own lives?

2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's ability to provide deliverance in unexpected ways? Can you think of a time when God intervened in your life unexpectedly?

3. How does the account of the Aramean army fleeing relate to other instances in the Bible where God causes confusion among enemies? What does this teach us about God's power over our adversaries?

4. What role does obedience play in experiencing God's deliverance and provision? How can we ensure that we are acting in faith rather than fear?

5. How can we apply the lessons from this passage to current situations where we feel besieged or overwhelmed? What scriptures can we meditate on to strengthen our faith in God's deliverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 6:24-33
Provides context for the siege of Samaria and the dire conditions that lead to the king's desperation.

2 Kings 7:1-2
Elisha's prophecy about the end of the famine, which sets the stage for the events in verse 14.

Exodus 14:24-25
Similar divine intervention where God causes confusion among enemy forces, leading to Israel's deliverance.

Psalm 33:16-19
Emphasizes that victory and deliverance come from the Lord, not from human strength or military might.