How does Elisha's inquiry in 2 Kings 4:14 reflect Christ's compassion in the Gospels? The Setting and the Verse “Then he asked, ‘What should be done for her?’ ” (2 Kings 4:14) Elisha’s Compassion on Display • Elisha notices unspoken need; he initiates help • He consults Gehazi to uncover what lies beneath outward comfort • His question implies willingness to act and to give, not merely sympathize Echoes of Christ’s Compassion in the Gospels • Jesus asks similar probing questions – “What do you want Me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51) – “Do you want to get well?” (John 5:6) • Both see beyond appearances – Shunammite looks secure; blind Bartimaeus, infirm man, appear hopeless – Compassion moves prophet and Savior to meet hidden or long-standing need • Compassion initiates concrete action – Elisha promises a son (2 Kings 4:16) – Jesus restores sight (Mark 10:52), raises the widow’s son (Luke 7:13-15), feeds the hungry (Matthew 14:14-21) • Sensitivity to timing and personal circumstance – Shunammite’s husband is old; pregnancy window closing – Jesus senses crowds are weary, disciples fearful, mourners grieving (Mark 6:34; John 11:33-35) Shared Traits of Divine Compassion • Initiative: Love moves first • Insight: True need discerned, even if unspoken • Intimacy: Personal questions invite relationship • Intervention: Power applied to bring life, healing, provision Key Takeaways • God’s servants mirror His heart when they inquire before they intervene • Christ fulfills and perfects the pattern Elisha previews • The same Lord still sees, still asks, and still supplies every hidden need of His people |
    |