How does 2 Kings 4:37 connect with Jesus' miracles in the New Testament? The verse in focus “She came in, fell at his feet, and bowed to the ground; she then took up her son and went out.” (2 Kings 4:37) Elisha’s miracle: life restored • The Shunammite woman’s son had died (4:32). • Elisha prayed, stretched himself out on the child, and the boy’s life returned (4:33–35). • The mother’s prostrate gratitude in verse 37 highlights awe before the God who reverses death. Echoes in the ministry of Jesus • Jairus’s daughter – “He took her by the hand and called out, ‘Child, get up!’ Her spirit returned, and at once she got up.” (Luke 8:54–55) • Widow of Nain’s son – “He touched the coffin… ‘Young man, I say to you, get up!’ The dead man sat up and began to speak.” (Luke 7:14–15) • Lazarus – “He cried out in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come out!’ The man who had been dead came out.” (John 11:43–44) Common threads: power, compassion, faith • Divine power over death demonstrated through a prophet (Elisha) and later through the Son of God. • Compassion for grieving families: Shunammite mother, Jairus, widow of Nain, sisters of Lazarus. • Faith invited and rewarded: the woman’s persistent appeal (2 Kings 4:28), Jairus’s belief (Mark 5:36), Martha’s confession (John 11:27). Foreshadowing the greater Prophet • Deuteronomy 18:15 promises a prophet like Moses; Elisha’s act prefigures the ultimate Prophet who surpasses him (Hebrews 3:3). • Elisha stretches himself on the child; Jesus simply speaks—showing a fuller authority (Matthew 8:8–9, 13). • The temporary resuscitations in both Testaments anticipate the permanent victory over death in Jesus’ resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20–22). Encouragement for today • The same Lord who answered Elisha and walked among us in Jesus still holds power over life and death (Revelation 1:17–18). • His heart toward grieving parents has not changed; believers may approach Him with confidence, knowing He listens and restores (Hebrews 4:16). |
    |