Useful Bible Studies > 2 Kings Commentary > chapter 4
When God chose Elisha to be a prophet (holy man), he first became the servant of Elijah (1 Kings 19:19-21; 2 Kings 3:11). In that way, Elisha was able to learn from Elijah.
When Elisha became the principal prophet in Israel, he too appointed a servant, Gehazi. Perhaps Elisha hoped that Gehazi too would become a prophet – however, that did not happen. Still, we see here how Elisha was trying to teach Gehazi.
Elisha asked a very strange question to the woman. He wanted to show some kindness to her. So, he asked whether he could introduce her to the king or the army commander.
That is a strange question from a prophet, whose power depends on his relationship with God. He did not offer her help from God, but rather from the government or the army.
The woman’s reply seemed to express surprise. God had given to her family, and to every family in Israel, its proper place in the land (compare 1 Kings 21:3). While her family were in possession of that place, she did not need the king’s help (contrast 2 Kings 8:1-6).
However, Elisha knew that God still wanted him to show an act of kindness to the woman. So, he tested his servant Gehazi with a question. He asked what act of kindness he (Elisha) could show to the woman.
On this occasion, Gehazi answered correctly. He saw what God could do for this woman. The woman had no child – but God could make it possible for her to give birth to a son (Psalm 113:9).
Next part: Elisha promises that the woman will have a child (2 Kings 4:15-17)
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