The Stick of Religion v.s. the Sneeze of Life – 2 Kings Chapter 4

Pastor Chris Parker

The passing of authority from Elijah to Elisha represents the continuation of God’s prophetic work in Israel. Elisha’s request for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit is fulfilled, as he goes on to perform many miracles, even more than Elijah did. This story also highlights themes of loyalty, faith, and the continuation of divine mission through chosen leaders.

The prophet Haggai’s preaching, found in the book of Haggai, emphasizes obedience and prioritizing God’s work. After the Babylonian exile, the Israelites returned to Jerusalem and began rebuilding the temple, but opposition and personal concerns led them to abandon the project. Haggai, sent by God, challenged the people to “consider your ways” (Haggai 1:5, KJV), urging them to resume the temple construction instead of focusing solely on their own houses and comfort.

It is a reflective and instructional psalm by King David that explores the themes of forgiveness, repentance, and divine guidance. It begins with a proclamation of the blessings that come from having one’s sins forgiven by God and emphasizes the relief and joy experienced after confessing wrongdoing. David recounts his personal struggle when he kept silent about his sins, which caused deep emotional and physical suffering. Once he confessed, he felt the weight lifted and experienced God’s forgiveness.

This story highlights the virtues of hospitality, generosity, and faith. The woman’s kindness to Elisha opened the door to blessings, as Elisha later prophesied that she would have a son, fulfilling a deep longing she had not even expressed openly. The narrative is a beautiful reminder of how acts of kindness and hospitality, especially to servants of God, can lead to unexpected blessings.

Salvation in Luke 18:26 emphasizes the impossibility of human efforts to achieve eternal life. The disciples’ question, “Who then can be saved?” reflects the realization that neither wealth nor good deeds can secure salvation. This underscores the need for God’s grace, as what is impossible for humans is possible with God. Human effort, status, or possessions are futile in the pursuit of salvation; it is entirely an act of divine intervention.