2 Kings 7:18

It happened just as the man of God had told the king: "About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria, two seahs of barley will sell for a shekel, and a seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel."

Study Bible

It happened just as the man of God had told the king:
This phrase emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy, highlighting the reliability of God's word through His prophets. The "man of God" refers to Elisha, a prominent prophet in Israel who succeeded Elijah. This fulfillment underscores the divine authority behind prophetic messages and serves as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. It also reflects the biblical theme that God's promises, whether of judgment or blessing, are certain and will come to pass.

“About this time tomorrow at the gate of Samaria:
The phrase "about this time tomorrow" indicates the immediacy and precision of the prophecy. The "gate of Samaria" was a central place for commerce and legal matters in the city, serving as a marketplace and a location for public announcements. Samaria was the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, and during this time, it was under siege by the Arameans, leading to severe famine. The prophecy's setting at the city gate highlights the public nature of the fulfillment, ensuring that it would be witnessed by many.

two seahs of barley will sell for a shekel:
A "seah" is a unit of dry measure, roughly equivalent to about 7-9 liters or 1.5-2 gallons. Barley was a staple grain, often considered less valuable than wheat, and used primarily for feeding animals and the poor. The mention of "two seahs of barley for a shekel" indicates a dramatic reversal of the famine conditions, as food would become abundant and affordable. A "shekel" was a standard unit of currency, and this price suggests a return to normalcy and economic stability.

and a seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel.”
"Fine flour" was a more refined and desirable product than barley, used for making bread and other baked goods. The prophecy that a "seah of fine flour will sell for a shekel" further emphasizes the miraculous nature of the provision, as fine flour would typically be more expensive. This prediction of economic recovery and abundance serves as a sign of God's intervention and blessing, contrasting sharply with the dire circumstances of the siege. The fulfillment of this prophecy demonstrates God's power to provide and His ability to change situations swiftly and unexpectedly.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
The prophet of God who delivered the prophecy about the end of the famine in Samaria.

2. The King of Israel
The ruler during the time of the famine, who doubted the prophecy given by Elisha.

3. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which was under siege and suffering from a severe famine.

4. The Officer
The king's officer who doubted Elisha's prophecy and was trampled at the gate as the prophecy was fulfilled.

5. The Siege
The event where the Arameans besieged Samaria, leading to extreme famine conditions.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God's word is always fulfilled, demonstrating His sovereignty over all circumstances.

The Danger of Doubt
Doubting God's promises can lead to missing out on His blessings, as seen in the fate of the king's officer.

The Power of Prophecy
Prophecy serves as a testament to God's control over future events and His ability to provide for His people.

Trust in God's Timing
God's timing is perfect, and His provision often comes when we least expect it.

The Role of Faith in Crisis
In times of crisis, faith in God's promises can sustain us and lead to miraculous outcomes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fulfillment of Elisha's prophecy in 2 Kings 7:18 demonstrate God's faithfulness?

2. What can we learn from the skepticism of the king's officer, and how can we apply this lesson to our own faith journey?

3. In what ways does the account of the siege of Samaria encourage us to trust in God's provision during difficult times?

4. How can we relate the miraculous provision in 2 Kings 7 to other instances in the Bible where God provided for His people?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's provision in an unexpected way. How did this experience strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 6:24-25
Provides context for the severe famine in Samaria due to the Aramean siege.

2 Kings 7:1-2
Elisha's initial prophecy about the end of the famine and the skepticism of the king's officer.

Genesis 18:14
Relates to the theme of God's ability to fulfill His promises, even when they seem impossible.

Luke 1:37
Reinforces the idea that nothing is impossible with God, echoing the miraculous provision in 2 Kings 7.