2 Kings 13:20

And Elisha died and was buried. Now the Moabite raiders used to come into the land every spring.

Study Bible

And Elisha died and was buried.
Elisha, the successor of Elijah, was a prominent prophet in Israel known for his miracles and guidance to the kings of Israel. His death marks the end of an era of prophetic leadership that was characterized by direct divine intervention. Elisha's burial signifies the honor given to him, as burial was an important cultural practice in ancient Israel, reflecting respect and remembrance. His death also fulfills the natural course of life, even for a man of God, reminding us of the mortality of all humans. Elisha's ministry is often seen as a type of Christ, as he performed miracles that foreshadowed those of Jesus, such as raising the dead and multiplying food.

Now the Moabite raiders used to come into the land every spring.
The Moabites were descendants of Lot and often in conflict with Israel. Their raids into Israelite territory during the spring were strategic, as this was the time of harvest when resources were plentiful. This historical context highlights the constant threat and instability faced by Israel due to surrounding nations. The Moabite incursions are a reminder of the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God, as foreign oppression was often a result of their turning away from Him. The cyclical nature of these raids underscores the persistent challenges Israel faced, which were often addressed by the prophets. The mention of Moabites also connects to other biblical narratives, such as the story of Ruth, a Moabite who became an ancestor of David and ultimately Jesus, illustrating God's redemptive plan through all nations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet in Israel, successor to Elijah, known for performing many miracles and being a powerful voice for God during his lifetime.

2. Moabite Raiders
Invaders from Moab, a neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel, who took advantage of Israel's vulnerabilities.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often struggling with idolatry and conflict during this period.

4. Burial of Elisha
Marks the end of an era of prophetic ministry in Israel, highlighting the transition in leadership and spiritual guidance.

5. Spring Raids
A time when the Moabites would exploit the agricultural cycle, raiding during the harvest season when resources were plentiful.

Teaching Points

The Legacy of Faithful Service
Elisha's life and ministry remind us of the impact one faithful servant of God can have. Even after his death, his influence continued, as seen in the subsequent verses.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The Moabite raids symbolize the ongoing spiritual battles believers face. We must remain vigilant and prepared, recognizing that challenges often come when we are most vulnerable.

God's Sovereignty in Life and Death
Elisha's death was part of God's divine plan. We can trust God's timing and purposes, even when a spiritual leader's earthly ministry ends.

The Importance of Spiritual Succession
Just as Elisha succeeded Elijah, we must prepare the next generation to carry on the work of God, ensuring that His truth and power continue to be proclaimed.

Seasons of Challenge and Opportunity
The spring raids by the Moabites remind us that challenges often coincide with times of growth and harvest. We must be ready to defend and steward what God has entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elisha's life and ministry inspire you to serve God faithfully in your own context?

2. In what ways can we prepare for spiritual "raids" or attacks in our lives, especially during times of growth or harvest?

3. How can we ensure that the legacy of faith is passed on to the next generation in our families and communities?

4. What does Elisha's death teach us about trusting God's timing and sovereignty in the transitions of life?

5. How can we apply the lessons from the recurring conflicts between Israel and Moab to our own spiritual battles today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 2:9-14
Elisha's request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit and his subsequent ministry, showing the continuity of God's work through His prophets.

Judges 3:12-30
The Moabites' oppression of Israel and God's deliverance through Ehud, illustrating the recurring conflict between Israel and Moab.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
The concept of seasons, both in life and in spiritual leadership, reflecting on the timing of Elisha's death and the raids.

Hebrews 11:32-34
The faith of the prophets, including Elisha, who through faith performed miracles and faced adversities.