The Attempts of the Army of Syria to Capture Elisha
(They Meet with Failure)
2 Kings 6:8-23

Lesson 13

background notes

doctrinal / teaching points

1. The Lord can thwart the strategy of the enemy.
2. The Lord’s forces are greater than the enemies’ forces.

practical applications

1. Pray that your eyes may be opened.
2. Overcome evil with good.

questions

1. Who is telling the King of Israel the war plans made by the King of Syria?
2. What is the double miracle during the onset of the invasion?
3. How did the Lord thwart the strategy of the enemy of Israel?
4. Why is it that the opposition looks so much stronger?
5. How were the eyes of Elisha’s servant opened?
6. How did Elisha illustrate the point, “Overcome evil with good?”

answers

1. Elisha
2. The eyes of Elisha’s servant are opened, and he is able to see the surrounding host that is protecting them. The eyes of the Syrian soldiers are temporarily blinded.
3. By the two miracles—Syria’s efforts to overthrow Israel were thwarted, and they failed in their attempts to capture Elisha.
4. We tend to have a grasshopper complex, thinking that we are outnumbered and outsized. We need to remember that one plus God is a majority. We would do well to review Numbers 14 and Joshua 1
5. By prayer.
6. Instead of killing the captured enemy, Elisha said to feed them and send them home.

discuss / consider

1. When you feel that you are “outnumbered,” review Romans 8:31 and 1 John 4:4.  All too frequently we are blinded to God’s protection and care. Pray that your eyes might be open to all that God has for you.

2. Do you believe that angelic hosts are protecting and ministering to you? Read Hebrews 1:14 and 13:2.  How have you experienced the ministry of angels in your life?

challenge

A vindictive spirit will only harm everyone involved. Resolve to overcome evil with good, which will bring glory to God. Read 2 Kings 6:22 and Romans 12:19-2

memorize

“Elisha said, ‘Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
(2 Kings 6:16)

“Elisha prayed, ‘Lord, open his eyes that he might see.’ The Lord opened his eyes.”
(2 Kings 6:17)

“Set food and water before them, that they may eat and drink…” (2 Kings 6:22)