Topical Encyclopedia
The account of Elisha restoring a child to life is one of the most profound miracles recorded in the Old Testament, demonstrating the power of God working through His prophet. This event is found in
2 Kings 4:8-37 and highlights themes of faith, divine intervention, and the prophetic authority bestowed upon Elisha.
Context and BackgroundElisha, the successor of Elijah, was a prophet in the northern kingdom of Israel during the 9th century BC. Known for his numerous miracles, Elisha's ministry was marked by acts that revealed God's power and compassion. The miracle of the Shunammite woman's son is a testament to God's care for His people and His ability to bring life from death.
The Shunammite WomanThe narrative begins with Elisha's frequent visits to Shunem, where a wealthy woman and her husband provided him with hospitality. Recognizing Elisha as a "holy man of God," the woman persuaded her husband to build a small room for him on their roof, complete with a bed, table, chair, and lamp (
2 Kings 4:9-10). This act of kindness set the stage for the miracle that would follow.
Promise of a SonIn gratitude for her hospitality, Elisha, through his servant Gehazi, inquired about what could be done for the woman. Despite her contentment, Elisha prophesied that she would embrace a son by the following year (
2 Kings 4:16). True to the word of the prophet, the woman conceived and bore a son at the appointed time.
The Child's Death and the Mother's FaithYears later, the child suffered a sudden illness while in the field with his father and died on his mother's lap (
2 Kings 4:18-20). Demonstrating remarkable faith, the Shunammite woman laid her son on Elisha's bed and set out to find the prophet at Mount Carmel. Her determination and trust in Elisha's connection to God are evident as she insists on bringing him back to her home.
Elisha's Response and the MiracleUpon hearing of the child's death, Elisha sent Gehazi ahead with his staff to lay on the boy's face, but the child did not awaken (
2 Kings 4:31). When Elisha arrived, he went into the room, shut the door, and prayed to the Lord. He then stretched himself upon the child, and the boy's flesh became warm. After repeating the act, the child sneezed seven times and opened his eyes (
2 Kings 4:34-35).
SignificanceThis miracle underscores several key theological themes. First, it highlights the power of God to overcome death, prefiguring the resurrection power fully revealed in the New Testament. Second, it illustrates the role of faith and obedience in experiencing God's miraculous interventions. The Shunammite woman's unwavering faith and Elisha's reliance on prayer and divine guidance are central to the narrative.
Prophetic AuthorityElisha's ability to perform such a miracle also affirms his role as a true prophet of God, endowed with authority and power to act as God's representative. This event, among others, solidifies Elisha's position as a pivotal figure in Israel's spiritual history, continuing the legacy of his predecessor, Elijah.
In summary, the restoration of the Shunammite woman's son to life is a powerful testament to God's sovereignty, the efficacy of faith, and the divine authority granted to His prophets.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 4:32-35And when Elisha was come into the house, behold, the child was dead, and laid on his bed.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
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Resources
Are the miracles in the Bible to be taken literally? | GotQuestions.orgHow can we discern counterfeit miracles? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the greatest miracles in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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