What is the meaning of 2 Kings 4:17? But the woman did conceive “But the woman did conceive…” (2 Kings 4:17) • This simple statement celebrates the power of God to overcome barrenness, echoing earlier miracles for Sarah (Genesis 21:1–2) and Hannah (1 Samuel 1:19–20). • The conception confirms that Elisha’s promise in verse 16 was not mere optimism but a divinely backed word, much like Elijah’s earlier proclamation that the widow’s flour and oil would not run out (1 Kings 17:14–16). • God’s faithfulness here underscores His unchanging nature (Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 13:8). and at that time the next year “…and at that time the next year…” (2 Kings 4:17) • The specific timeframe shows God’s mastery over seasons (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and His precise control of history. • Fulfillment “next year” mirrors the angelic promise to Abraham: “About this time next year” Sarah would have a son (Genesis 18:10, 14). • Such timing highlights that God is neither early nor late (Habakkuk 2:3); He acts at the perfect moment for His purposes. she gave birth to a son “…she gave birth to a son…” (2 Kings 4:17) • A son secured the family line, property inheritance, and social security for the Shunammite woman (Numbers 27:8). • The birth aligns with God’s repeated pattern of providing sons who advance His redemptive plan: Isaac (Genesis 21:3), Samuel (1 Samuel 1:20), John the Baptist (Luke 1:57). • Each miraculous birth points forward to the ultimate promised Son, Jesus (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2:7). just as Elisha had told her “…just as Elisha had told her.” (2 Kings 4:17) • The phrase vindicates Elisha’s prophetic authority, much like Samuel’s words “let none of his words fall to the ground” (1 Samuel 3:19). • Fulfilled prophecy distinguishes the true God from idols (Isaiah 46:9–10) and authenticates His messenger (Deuteronomy 18:21–22). • The reliability of Elisha’s word invites trust in every promise in Scripture, including eternal life through Christ (John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 1:20). summary God honored His promise through Elisha with precise, timely, and miraculous fulfillment. The Shunammite’s conception, the exact timing, the birth of a son, and the confirmation of the prophet’s word together spotlight the Lord’s faithfulness, power, and covenant love. Believers today can rest assured that the same God who kept His word then still keeps every promise now. |
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