2 Kings 7:4

If we say, 'Let us go into the city,' we will die there from the famine in the city; but if we sit here, we will also die. So come now, let us go over to the camp of the Arameans. If they let us live, we will live; if they kill us, we will die."

Study Bible

If we say
This phrase introduces a hypothetical scenario, reflecting a moment of decision-making. In the Hebrew text, the word for "say" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies a deliberation or consideration. This reflects the lepers' critical thinking and the weighing of their dire options. It is a reminder of the human condition, where choices must be made even in the bleakest circumstances, and it encourages believers to seek divine wisdom in decision-making.

Let us go into the city
The city referred to here is Samaria, which was under siege by the Arameans, leading to a severe famine. The Hebrew word for "city" is "עִיר" (ir), often symbolizing a place of refuge and community. However, in this context, it is ironically a place of death due to the famine. This highlights the desperation and hopelessness of the situation, yet it also serves as a metaphor for the spiritual famine that can occur when one is cut off from God’s provision.

the famine is there
The word "famine" in Hebrew is "רָעָב" (ra'av), indicating a severe shortage of food. Historically, famines were often seen as a sign of divine judgment or a call to repentance. In this narrative, the famine underscores the severity of the siege and the desperation of the people. It serves as a backdrop for God’s miraculous intervention, reminding believers that God can provide even in the most desperate situations.

and we will die there
This phrase captures the inevitability of death if the lepers choose to enter the city. The Hebrew word for "die" is "מוּת" (muth), which is a common term for physical death but can also imply spiritual death or separation from God. The lepers' acknowledgment of their mortality is a poignant reminder of the human condition and the need for divine intervention. It challenges believers to trust in God’s sovereignty and to seek His will, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable odds.

But if we stay here
The lepers consider the option of remaining where they are, outside the city gates. The Hebrew word for "stay" is "יָשַׁב" (yashav), which can mean to sit, dwell, or remain. This reflects a state of inaction or resignation. Spiritually, it can symbolize complacency or stagnation in one’s faith journey. The lepers’ reasoning challenges believers to avoid spiritual stagnation and to actively seek God’s direction.

we will die
Reiterating the certainty of death, this phrase emphasizes the hopelessness of their situation. The repetition of the word "die" (מוּת, muth) underscores the urgency and desperation of their plight. It serves as a metaphor for the spiritual death that results from separation from God. This stark reality prompts believers to seek life in Christ, who offers hope and salvation even in the face of death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Four Lepers
These individuals are the central figures in this verse. They are outcasts due to their leprosy and are situated at the city gate, facing a dire situation due to the famine in Samaria.

2. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which is under siege by the Arameans, leading to a severe famine within the city.

3. The Arameans
The enemy army besieging Samaria, causing the famine and desperation among the people inside the city.

4. The Famine
A severe lack of food in Samaria due to the Aramean siege, leading to extreme desperation among the inhabitants.

5. The City Gate
The location where the lepers are situated, symbolizing a place of decision and transition.

Teaching Points

Decision in Desperation
The lepers' decision highlights the importance of taking action in desperate situations. When faced with dire circumstances, faith can lead us to make bold decisions.

Faith Over Fear
The lepers chose to act despite the fear of death. This teaches us to trust God and step out in faith, even when the outcome is uncertain.

God's Providence
The lepers' decision ultimately leads to the deliverance of Samaria, illustrating how God can use unlikely individuals and situations to fulfill His purposes.

The Power of Initiative
Taking initiative, even when options seem limited, can lead to unexpected blessings and breakthroughs.

Hope in Hopelessness
The lepers' situation seemed hopeless, yet their decision brought hope and salvation. This reminds us that God can bring hope in our darkest moments.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the lepers' decision-making process when faced with life-threatening circumstances?

2. How does the lepers' account encourage us to act in faith rather than succumb to fear in our own lives?

3. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's ability to use unexpected people and situations for His purposes?

4. How can we apply the principle of taking initiative in our spiritual lives, especially when facing difficult decisions?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a seemingly hopeless situation. How did God provide a way forward, and how does this passage reinforce that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 6:24-33
Provides context for the famine in Samaria, detailing the severity of the situation and the desperation of the people.

Luke 15:17-20
The prodigal son's moment of realization and decision to return to his father parallels the lepers' decision to take action despite the risks.

Esther 4:16
Esther's resolve to approach the king, despite the risk of death, mirrors the lepers' decision to approach the Aramean camp.