Purpose

To record the decline and fall of both kingdoms and show God's justice in judgment.

Author

Likely the same compiler as 1 Kings, using official court records and prophetic sources. The author witnessed or had access to eyewitness accounts of the final years before exile.

Historical Context

Written: 560-538 BC. The decline and fall of both the northern kingdom (Israel) and southern kingdom (Judah).

Significance

Shows that God's justice is real, but also demonstrates His mercy through the prophetic ministry.

Key Themes

Divine Justice, Prophetic Ministry, Consequences of Sin, God's Patience, Exile

Interesting Facts

• Elijah was taken to heaven in a whirlwind without dying - only he and Enoch never died
• Elisha performed twice as many miracles as Elijah (he asked for a double portion)
• A dead man came back to life just by touching Elisha's bones

Prophecies

• Josiah would be born and destroy idolatrous altars (1 Kings 13:2) Fulfilled: Fulfilled 300 years later when Josiah became king (300 years later)

2 Kings Chapter 5 narrates the remarkable story of Naaman, a high-ranking commander of the Syrian army, who suffers from leprosy. Despite his military prowess and favor with the king, Naaman's condition renders him vulnerable and desperate for healing. The narrative begins with a young Israelite girl, taken captive during a Syrian raid, who serves Naaman's wife. She expresses faith in the prophet Elisha, suggesting that he could cure Naaman's leprosy. This innocent yet profound faith sets the stage for the unfolding miracle. Naaman seeks permission from the king of Syria to visit the king of Israel, taking with him lavish gifts as a gesture of goodwill. However, upon delivering the request, the king of Israel reacts with despair, fearing that the Syrian king is trying to provoke a conflict. Elisha hears of this and encourages the king to send Naaman to him, stating that he would demonstrate that there is a prophet in Israel. When Naaman arrives at Elisha's home, he is met with an unexpected response—Elisha sends a messenger instead of coming out personally. The messenger instructs Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times. Naaman's initial reaction is one of anger and disbelief; he expected a grand display of healing rather than a simple command. His pride and preconceived notions about the healing process almost lead him to abandon the opportunity for healing. Ultimately, it is the wisdom and encouragement of Naaman’s servants that lead him to follow Elisha's instructions. When Naaman humbles himself and dips in the Jordan as directed, he is miraculously healed. This act of obedience transforms Naaman's understanding of God, leading him to proclaim the sovereignty of the God of Israel. He offers gifts to Elisha, but Elisha refuses, emphasizing that God's grace cannot be bought. Naaman then requests soil from Israel to use for worship back in Syria, indicating a profound spiritual transformation. The chapter concludes with Gehazi, Elisha's servant, who, motivated by greed, pursues Naaman to take gifts for himself, setting the stage for his eventual punishment. This narrative not only illustrates the power of faith and obedience but also highlights the consequences of greed and deceit.