2 Kings 4:35
Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro, and went vp, and stretched himselfe vpon him: and the child neesed seuen times, and the child opened his eyes. 2 Kings 4:35 (KJV)
Context: In this passage, we find a miraculous event that occurred through the prophet Elisha. The story begins in 2 Kings 4:8-37 when a wealthy woman from Shunem showed great hospitality to Elisha, providing him with a place to stay whenever he passed by. To show her gratitude, Elisha wanted to bless her. Upon learning that she had no children, he prophesied that she would conceive a son the following year. True to his word, the woman gave birth to a son. However, tragedy struck when the child became ill and died suddenly. This verse describes the moment when Elisha brings the child back to life.
Persistence in Prayer: Throughout this story, we see the woman from Shunem and Elisha demonstrating persistence and faith. Despite her initial barrenness, the woman did not lose hope and continued to show kindness and hospitality. When her son died, she did not give in to despair but immediately sought Elisha’s help. Similarly, Elisha did not give up when he saw the lifeless child. He stretched himself upon the child, showing a powerful act of identification and faith in God’s ability to bring life. This teaches us the importance of persisting in prayer, not losing faith, and believing in God’s power to intervene in impossible situations.
God’s Power Over Life and Death: The resurrection of the child in this passage highlights God’s sovereignty over life and death. Elisha, as God’s chosen prophet, acted as an instrument through which God worked this miracle. It serves as a reminder that God has the power to reverse hopeless situations and bring life even in the face of death. This event foreshadows the ultimate victory over death that would be accomplished through Jesus Christ’s resurrection. It reminds us that our God is the God of life, and He has power over all circumstances.
Symbolic Meaning: The seven sneezes of the child can be seen as a representation of complete restoration and renewal. In ancient times, sneezing was often associated with expelling illness or negative forces from the body. The number seven is significant in the Bible, often symbolizing completeness or perfection. By sneezing seven times, the child was not only restored to life but was also fully healed and made whole. This emphasizes the completeness of God’s work and His ability to bring restoration to every aspect of our lives.
Faith and Obedience: Both the woman and Elisha demonstrated faith and obedience in this passage. The woman’s faith in Elisha’s prophetic word led to the birth of her son. Even in the midst of tragedy, she did not lose faith but sought Elisha’s help. Elisha, on his part, acted in obedience to God’s leading, stretching himself upon the child and praying for his restoration. This story teaches us the importance of trusting God’s promises, stepping out in faith, and being obedient to His leading even in challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, 2 Kings 4:35 showcases a remarkable miracle performed by Elisha, demonstrating God’s power over life and death. It teaches us the importance of persistence in prayer, faith, obedience, and trusting in God’s ability to bring restoration and renewal. This passage serves as a reminder that God is in control and can intervene in the most desperate situations, offering hope and new life.
