2 Kings 15-16

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 10, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 15-16. In the land of Israel and Judah, the people have turned away from God, allowing idolatry, violence, and sin to take root, leaving the land spiritually barren. Uzziah's reign starts well but ends as a warning about the dangers of pride, while Israel experiences decades of chaos with assassinations and political instability, reflecting the consequences of sin. In Judah, King Ahaz’s extreme idolatry, including child sacrifice and the corruption of temple worship, demonstrates how unrepentant sin affects both individuals and the larger society, revealing the devastating impact of putting sin at the center of life.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 15

Israel and Judah, the land promised by God as a place “flowing with milk and honey.” This land was intended to be a dwelling place of peace, joy, and protection—where God’s presence would be central to every part of life. But by this chapter, the Promised Land has become a place of darkness and chaos. Instead of worshiping Yahweh, Israel, and Judah are filled with pagan idols, foreign altars, and violence.

This tragic spiritual decline reminds us of Ichabod from 1 Samuel 4:21, where “the glory has departed.” When people forsake the Lord, He may give them over to their choices, allowing them to experience the consequences of a life separated from Him. Israel and Judah have become spiritually bankrupt, marked by emptiness and lack of peace.

The chapter begins by focusing on Judah and King Uzziah. Unlike many of Israel’s leaders, Uzziah “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord,” bringing stability and prosperity to Judah. Chronicles expands on Uzziah’s life, showing that he sought the Lord from a young age, and as a result, God blessed him with success in war and even advancements in technology.

However, success and technology opened the door to pride. Uzziah eventually lost sight of his role and his need for God, taking liberties meant only for priests. His pride led to a life-altering consequence: God struck him with leprosy, a visual reminder of the spiritual pride that had taken root in his heart. Uzziah’s life serves as a powerful warning—pride is like leprosy of the heart. Left unchecked, it spreads, clouds our perspective, and ultimately leads us away from God.

Following Uzziah’s life story, the author turns to Israel, where chaos and violence rule. Over about thirty years, Israel saw a rapid succession of kings—six in total—marked by assassinations, conspiracies, and corruption. Zechariah reigns for six months before being assassinated by Shallum, who himself reigns only one month before being murdered. The pattern of power grabs and betrayal continues with Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah, and Hoshea, each of whom rises through betrayal and ultimately falls.

The author includes a disturbing detail in verse 16: Menahem attacked the Israelite city of Tiphsah, killing the people and brutally harming pregnant women because the city rejected him as king. This detail is shocking, not only because of its brutality but because it reveals the utter depravity that had taken hold of Israel. Why does the author include such a graphic account? It is a vivid illustration of the depths of depravity that result when people are given over to their sin. Israel’s became a nation where violence and chaos ruled, with no regard for the sacredness of life or God’s justice.

This chapter reminds us that turning away from God brings consequences. When we pursue the world, the result is spiritual and moral chaos, just as it was in Israel and Judah. Israel’s political instability and moral decay reflect what happens when people remove God from the center of their lives: violence, pride, and self-destruction take over. God may allow us to experience the consequences of our choices, but He remains compassionate and ready to restore us when we return to Him.

Uzziah’s story, too, calls us to examine our hearts. When we find our identity or signifiance based on our own success and achievements, we choose that over complete dependence on God and drift into self-sufficiency. Uzziah’s life began with humility and devotion, yet his end cautions against allowing success to overshadow our need for God.

Reflection Questions:

1. Uzziah started well, seeking the Lord, but pride eventually led to his downfall. Are there areas of success or personal achievements in your life that might be taking the place of humble dependence on God?  How can you guard your heart against pride and continually seek God’s guidance and glory in all you do?

2. Israel’s spiritual and moral chaos resulted from forsaking God. Are there areas in your life where you’ve drifted from God’s guidance or allowed other “idols” to take center stage? How can you refocus and make God the central influence in your life once again?

3. Menahem’s violent act against Tiphsah shows the depth of depravity when sin goes unchecked. Are there sins or attitudes you’ve allowed to persist without addressing in your life? How can you seek God’s strength to root out and flee these sins before they take a deeper hold?

4. The rapid succession of kings and constant betrayal in Israel reflect instability and brokenness. In what ways have you experienced instability in your own life when you’ve drifted from God? How can you refocus your eyes, mind, and heart to God, making Him the foundation of your life?

5. Pride is called the “leprosy of the heart” because it spreads and isolates. Are there ways pride might subtly influence your relationships, decisions, or faith? How can you humble these areas before God, asking Him to cleanse your heart?

2 Kings 16

In 2 Kings 16, the author shifts focus back to Judah. Uzziah’s son Jotham did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, yet the high places were still not removed. Then, after Jotham's death, Ahaz reigned. Ahaz fully embraced Israel's idolatrous ways, becoming one of Judah's most wicked kings. Ahaz's life reveals what happens when God is not the center of our lives, trading true worship for political alliances and pagan practices.

As war threatens Judah, Ahaz faces a choice: Will he trust in the Lord or seek an alliance elsewhere? Instead of trusting God, Ahaz turns to Assyria for help. This alliance works temporarily—Assyria defeats Ahaz's enemies—but it comes at a high cost.

When Ahaz visits Assyria, he is captivated by their pagan altar and orders a replica built in the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem. He goes even further and dismantles the temple furniture and alters the worship practices. These actions reflect Ahaz's true spiritual state: God is not at the center of his life. His choices not only dishonor God but also influences worship, the role of priests, and the hinder the people's relationship with God.

Ahaz's idol worship shows us how the center of our lives profoundly affects everything else. When God is not at the center, compromise and sin distort our priorities, actions, and relationships.

In 2 Kings 16:3, the author records that Ahaz sacrificed his own son by fire, adopting the horrifying practices of the pagan nations around him. This act of child sacrifice is also noted in 2 Kings 15:16 and condemned by the prophet Hosea during this period (Hosea 13:1-2). Hosea connects the worship of idols like the golden calf to the acceptance of extreme practices like human sacrifice. As people increasingly turn away from God, their sin deepens, eventually leading to acts that seem unimaginable.

Ahaz's sacrifice exposes the horrific impact of sin and rebellion. What began with Jeroboam's golden calves—a seemingly small act of compromise for "convenient worship"—has grown into child sacrifice generations later. Sin is like a web, it entangles and leads to destruction. Pulling on one thread of sin draws others with it, leading to a downward spiral. It reminds us that if left unchecked, sin affects every aspect of life and can lead to terrible consequences.

The author includes these shocking details to emphasize sin's severe and far-reaching effects. When God is not at the center, life becomes distorted, and everything—our priorities, relationships, and choices—becomes negatively impacted. This reminds us of the importance of centering our lives on God rather than on things like power, pride, or convenience. When God is at the center, the Holy Spirit guides and gives us everything we need for life and godliness.

Reflection Questions:

1. Ahaz compromised his faith by seeking help from Assyria rather than trusting God. Are there areas where you rely on worldly solutions or alliances rather than turning to God? How can you turn to God and put your trust back to Him in these areas?

2. When Ahaz was captivated by the Assyrian altar, he replicated it in Judah. Have things in your life taken your attention or devotion away from God? How can you refocus your heart and mind to ensure God remains at the center?

3. Ahaz's life story reveals the horrific consequences of sin-centered living. Have you made "small compromises" that could lead to greater sin over time? How can you guard against allowing small compromises to grow into destructive sin?

4. Ahaz's sin affected not only him but also all the worship practices and Judah's faith. Do you make choices that might influence those around you, especially in their walk with God? What steps can you take to model a life centered on God for those around you?

2 Kings 13-14

Pastor Marshall Ochs | November 3, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 13-14. These chapters cover Israel's pattern of sin, judgment, and deliverance, under King Jehoahaz, whose cries for help were met with God's compassion despite ongoing disobedience. The life of Joash and Amaziah reveal a continued lack of true repentance and reliance on God, leading to further rebellion and the impending threat of exile. The theme of these chapters warns against complacency and emphasizes the importance of sincere devotion to God, urging readers to choose a relationship with Yahweh over the consequences of sin and spiritual apathy.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 13

We see a familiar pattern unfold in Israel. King Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu, leads Israel into sin, following in the idolatrous ways of his forefathers. As a consequence, God allows Syria to oppress Israel. This is the third time we have seen this cycle of judgment in Syria. Each time, the pattern is the same: Israel sins, judgment comes through the enemy, Israel cries out, and God mercifully saves.

Yet, even after God’s deliverance, Israel fails to truly repent. Though God grants relief, they do not change their ways. Over time, Israel loses more territory and becomes increasingly vulnerable, showing the slow, destructive impact of unrepentant sin. This cycle warns us of the consequences of resisting true heart change, even when we see God’s mercy at work.

This repeated cycle mirrors the warning found in Romans 1:21-28, where Paul describes how God “gave them over” to their sinful desires. When we persist in sin, God may allow us to experience the consequences of that path. In other words, if we insist on holding onto sin, He may “give us over” to it. As the enemy gains ground, we lose the peace, joy, and blessing that come from God’s presence.

This section of 2 Kings stands as a warning to us today: if we reject God’s guidance, we risk losing the peace and joy He desires for us. However, the chapter also reveals God’s kindness and mercy. Even when Israel cries out to God without fully repenting, He still delivers them from their oppression. Yet, without genuine repentance, they remain trapped, allowing sin to continue its destructive influence.

After Jehoahaz’s death, his son Joash continues in the same pattern. Joash acknowledges God but lacks a fully devoted heart. This is illustrated through two unusual stories with the prophet Elisha:

Elisha instructs Joash to strike the ground with arrows, symbolizing the extent of victory he desires from God. Joash, however, strikes the ground only three times, showing his half-hearted commitment. This story reveals Joash’s limited faith and devotion, much like his father’s. His acknowledgment of God lacks full surrender, which limits the victory that God could have granted.

When a dead man’s body touches Elisha’s bones, the man comes back to life. This miraculous event points to God’s power to bring life even amid Israel's spiritual decay. Though Elisha is gone, God’s power and faithfulness remain active.

These two stories frame Israel’s struggle with sin and show the hope of restoration. Even in the face of disobedience, God’s resurrection power is at work. His compassion endures, and His covenant with His people remains intact.

Even in our sin, God’s mercy is available to us. The story of Israel’s repeated sin, judgment, and deliverance encourages us to turn to God in complete surrender, seeking His strength to break free from the cycles of sin in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

1. Israel continued in sin despite God’s repeated deliverance. Are there areas in your life where you’ve experienced God’s mercy but struggled to turn from sin fully?  What steps can you take to flee from sin and remove yourself from temptation?

2. Romans 1 warns that God may “give us over” to sin if we persist in it. How does this influence your view of sin’s impact on your life and relationship with God?  Are there “small” sins you need to address to prevent them from taking root in your heart?

3. Joash’s half-hearted devotion limited his victories. In what ways do you acknowledge God but lack full commitment?  How can you fully surrender to God daily?

4. The resurrection story shows God’s power at work even when Israel had fallen away. How does God’s faithfulness, even in times of disobedience, give you hope?

2 Kings 14

Amaziah, son of Joash, takes the throne in Judah. He starts out doing what is right in the eyes of the Lord, but his heart is not fully devoted. Amaziah’s main issue is pride and arrogance. Rather than relying on God, he begins to trust in his personal achievements. After defeating the Edomites, his pride grows, and he picks a fight with Israel, leading to a disastrous defeat. The temple is raided, and both Amaziah and the king of Israel, Joash, ultimately face the consequences of their actions.

Amaziah’s story warns us that pride and self-reliance, even in the lives of those who do “what is right,” can lead to spiritual and personal downfall. His example reminds us that obedience to God must be matched by humility and dependence on Him, not on our own success or achievements.

As each new king rises, we see a tragic cycle in Israel and Judah: God’s faithfulness is repeatedly met with rebellion. Instead of drawing closer to God, the kings lead the people deeper into sin, turning away from God’s guidance. The deeper Judah and Israel sink into idolatry and pride, the further they drift from the covenant with God, pushing the nation toward exile.

God’s repeated faithfulness—even when His people reject Him—calls us to reflect on our own responses to His grace. Are we moved to deeper devotion and humility, or do we, like Amaziah, let our hearts turn to self-reliance and pride?

During this time, God sends prophets like Amos to warn Israel and Judah about the consequences of their actions. In Amos 6:1-8, the prophet confronts the people’s complacency, pride, and empty worship. The issue is no longer about obvious idolatry, like Baal worship, but about spiritual laziness, drunkenness, pride, and superficial celebrations. God’s people are going through religious motions—empty feasts, shallow gatherings, and hollow sacrifices. Just as Romans 1 warns that God “gives people over” to their sinful desires when they persist in sin, here we see that God may also give people over to religious complacency and superficial living.

This is a powerful warning for us today. If we live self-centered, lazy lives, God may allow us to experience the consequences of that lifestyle. If we treat worship, prayer, or communion as mere rituals, He may let us feel the emptiness of empty traditions. If church becomes about entertainment rather than devotion, we may experience a spiritual dryness or even feel God’s presence withdraw.

May we choose a heart devoted to God rather than a life of superficial obedience. God calls us to deep, meaningful worship and devotion—a relationship that impacts every area of our lives. We can choose to walk closely with God, experiencing the fullness of His presence and blessing, or we can let pride, laziness, and superficial religion lead us into spiritual exile.

As the story of Amaziah teaches us, choosing self-reliance, pride, or empty rituals over true devotion leads us further from God and blinds us to His truth. The invitation is clear: turn to Christ and seek a heart that genuinely desires Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. Amaziah did what was right, but pride and self-reliance led to his downfall. Are there areas in your life where you tend to rely more on your achievements or status than on God?

2. How can you shift your focus back to humble dependence on God? Israel and Judah’s cycle of sin and rebellion in response to God’s faithfulness reflects the danger of taking God’s grace for granted.

3. Amos warns against complacency, empty worship, and shallow celebrations. Are there areas of your spiritual life that have become routine or lack sincere devotion?

4. Romans 1 speaks of God “giving people over” to their sinful desires, even in religious practices. Are there habits, attitudes, or “acceptable sins” in your life that you need to bring to God in repentance?

5. How can you seek a heart fully devoted to God rather than just outward behavior?

6. Are you willing to surrender your pride, self-reliance, or complacency to experience a closer walk with God?

2 Kings 11-12

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 27, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 11-12. These chapters cover the biblical narrative of Athaliah's corruption and the preservation of the Davidic line through Jehosheba, emphasizing God's faithfulness in turmoil. Despite Athaliah's efforts to eradicate the seed of David, God works through ordinary individuals to fulfill His promises. The narrative warns against superficial reforms without true heart devotion to God, illustrating how Israel's reliance on outward change rather than covenant faithfulness leads to cycles of sin and chaos.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 11

Athaliah, the mother of Ahaziah, seizes power after her son’s death. Her first act as queen is to kill all her grandsons—potential heirs to the throne of Judah. Her ruthless actions raise a troubling question: what about the Messiah? God had promised that a Savior would come from the line of David. If Athaliah’s plan succeeds, it appears that David’s lineage could be wiped out.

The story invites us to wrestle with questions of faith: Can God’s promises withstand times of intense tribulation? Can one person’s evil actions thwart His divine plan? These questions remind us that people have wrestled with the same doubts throughout history.

In the face of Athaliah’s massacre, God raises up an unlikely hero—Jehosheba, a young woman who quietly rescues her nephew, Joash, and hides him from the murderous queen. This act of courage preserves David's lineage. Just as Miriam protected Moses and Mary protected Jesus, Jehosheba becomes part of God’s plan to safeguard the promise of a Savior.

Jehosheba’s faith and obedience show us that God doesn’t always work through grand miracles; often, He fulfills His purposes through ordinary people's faithful obedience. This story challenges us to rethink what it means to be “people of faith.” We believe God works through extraordinary events, but we also believe He works through our ordinary obedience and even through actions that may seem insignificant at the time.

For seven years, it seemed that Athaliah’s wickedness had triumphed and that the line of David had ended. But while Athaliah ruled as queen, God’s promise was alive and growing in secret. Joash, the rightful heir, was being hidden and nurtured until the right time. At the age of seven, with the guidance of Jehoiada, the priest, Joash was crowned as the rightful king, and Athaliah’s reign came to an end.

This scene parallels the story in 2 Kings 9-10, where Jehu overthrows Jezebel and wipes out Baal worship in the northern kingdom. Now, Jehoiada, the priest, orchestrates the downfall of Athaliah and brings an end to Baal worship in Judah. God’s timing and purposes prevail, even when all seems lost.

The victory over Athaliah raises a critical question: Are the people truly committed to Yahweh or merely seeking a different ruler? It’s one thing to replace an evil leader; it’s another to be genuinely transformed. This story reminds us that outward actions alone are not enough—God desires genuine faith and heart change.

As we reflect on this passage, we are called to examine our own motivations. Do we seek God’s kingdom for what it truly is, or do we merely want circumstances to change to suit our desires?

Reflection Questions:

• Jehosheba’s courage and obedience preserved God’s promise. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to be faithful, even if it seems small or unnoticed?

• How can you find confidence that God can use your ordinary obedient actions to fulfill His purposes?

• Joash, the promised king, grew in secret until the right time. Are there aspects of God’s work in your life that you cannot yet see?

• When Athaliah ruled, it appeared God’s promise had been broken, yet God was still at work. Have you ever felt that God’s promises were at risk due to difficult circumstances?

• How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness during times of trial or doubt?

• Jehoiada, the priest, executed a plan to bring the true king to the throne. Who are the “faithful leaders” in your life who help guide you toward God’s promises?

• How can you lean on Godly mentors or trusted spiritual leaders to help you stay in step with the Holy Spirit?

2 Kings 12

In 2 Kings 12, we encounter Joash, a king of Judah who “did what was right” in the eyes of the Lord. However, his obedience was partial—Joash removed Baal worship but allowed the high places of worship to remain. These high places were locations where people worshiped both pagan gods and, at times, Yahweh.

Joash’s incomplete reforms reflect a problem that ran deeper than outward actions. The people had become accustomed to outward religion without true devotion. Joash’s failure to remove the high places shows us that true faith goes beyond surface-level obedience. It involves a heart fully devoted to God, not just partial obedience.

Joash saw the need to repair the temple—a noble and important task. But even with the building project underway, something was missing: a genuine, whole-hearted devotion to God. The first temple’s construction under Solomon was marked by a theme of devoted hearts (1 Kings 2:4, 3:6, 8:23). In contrast, Joash’s project focused only on external repairs.

After the repairs were completed, tribulation hit, and Syria began to conquer Judah’s land. Rather than seeking the Lord or turning to prayer, Joash responded by paying off the enemy with treasures from the temple. This act shows a troubling pattern: a reliance on manipulation without true dependence on God. When faced with challenges, Joash’s first response was to rely on bribes instead of God, revealing the absence of a true heart devotion.

Joash’s reign highlights a recurring issue in Israel’s history. With each new leader, the people of Judah seemed to spiral further into sin, focusing on external reform while neglecting the inner heart change that comes from a life wholly devoted to God. As a result, the kingdom’s leaders had fewer and fewer words of wisdom and godly instruction, indicating a spiritual drift away from covenant faithfulness.

This passage warns us against trusting in human leaders or movements that promise change without calling for deep heart transformation. Outward transformation without inner change leads to superficial spirituality, and without true devotion, God’s people become vulnerable to compromise and idolatry.

This serves as a reminder that our devotion is not just about external actions or religious habits; it’s about knowing and living God’s Word with a devoted heart. If we, as God’s people today, lose sight of His Word, we risk falling into the same patterns. Outward religion without inward devotion leads to a life that may look good on the surface but lacks the deep, abiding relationship with God that He desires.

Reflection Questions:

• Joash did “what was right” but didn’t fully obey God. Are there areas in your life where your obedience to God is partial or surface-level?

• What steps can you take to bring all areas of your life under God’s guidance?

• Joash repaired the temple but did not pursue a truly devoted heart. Are there “high places” in your life—habits or influences that distract from your relationship with God?

• How can you identify and remove these high places, focusing instead on whole-hearted devotion?

• When trouble came, Joash relied on a bribe rather than turning to God in prayer. How do you respond when facing difficulties?

• In what ways can you seek God first, trusting Him to guide you through challenges rather than relying on quick fixes or manipulation?

• Covenant faithfulness calls for knowing and living God’s Word. How much time do you spend in Scripture, seeking to understand God’s heart and commands?

• How can you prioritize Bible study and prayer, allowing God’s Word to shape and guide your life?

Throughout 2 Kings, we see the tragic consequences when people settle for superficial religion rather than complete devotion to God. This chapter calls us to examine our own lives and make sure that our faith is not just outward but deeply rooted in God’s Word.

2 Kings 9-10

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 20, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 9-10. God appoints Jehu to execute judgment on the house of Ahab, highlighting the consequences of sinful alliances between Judah and Israel. Jehu eliminates Baal worship and kills many people, including Jezebel and Ahaziah, but fails to address the ongoing sin of golden calf worship. The story serves as a reminder for believers to fully confront sin without going too far, emphasizing the importance of knowing and obeying God’s Word in all aspects of life.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 9

In 2 Kings 9:1-13, we witness Elisha sending a “son of the prophet”—a young prophet in training—to deliver God’s message to Jehu. This moment ties back to previous prophecies in 1 Kings 19:15-17 and 1 Kings 21:19-24, where God declared that the house of Ahab would face judgment for its wickedness. Now, the time for judgment has come, and Jehu is the man called by God to bring it about.

Jehu is anointed king over Israel and given a divine mandate: clean house by destroying the house of Ahab. As we read about Jehu’s call to root out evil, we are reminded of our own call to “clean house” in our lives, especially when it comes to sin.

Just as Jehu was called to cleanse Israel of Ahab’s wicked influence, we, too, are called by God to clean house in our own lives. In the New Testament, we are commanded to put sin to death. Colossians 3:5 calls us to “put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature.” Galatians 5:24 says, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires,” and Romans 8:13 reminds us that by the Spirit, we are to put to death the deeds of the body.

But what does this look like in practice? Is it enough to feel bad about our sin? To say sorry and move on? Or are we, like Jehu, called to go further? Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:29-30 that if our eye or hand causes us to stumble, we should tear it out or cut it off. This metaphorical language reveals the seriousness with which we should approach sin. True repentance requires decisive action. It’s not enough to feel remorse; we must take steps to remove the source of sin in our lives, no matter the cost.

Several years ago, I came across a statement in a commentary that has stayed with me ever since. It said something along the lines of this: We should treat sin like a poisonous snake, not like a piece of candy.

As we read this story of Jehu, we see that he had a difficult task ahead of him. He was called to root out corruption, and idolatry that had plagued Israel. His obedience would mean judgment on Ahab’s house, but it was necessary for the cleansing of the nation. In the same way, we are called to make hard choices when it comes to sin in our lives. How far are we willing to go to put sin to death? Jehu had a specific mission from God to carry out, but we are given a similar mission in our own hearts and lives. Repentance isn’t just feeling bad—it’s taking real action to root out sin and live in obedience to God’s will.

Sin clouds our judgment in our lives, leading us down paths of poor choices. But God’s grace continually calls us back, reminding us that His purposes will be accomplished. The question for us is, what is standing in the way? What sins, habits, or influences are preventing us from fully experiencing the abundant life God promises?

Reflection Questions:

• Jehu was anointed and called by God to bring judgment to the house of Ahab. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to take action against sin?

• What steps can you take to “clean house” and remove sinful habits or influences in your life?

• Scripture commands us to put sin to death, not just feel bad about it. Are there sins you’ve been tolerating or excusing instead of dealing with them seriously?

• How can you follow Jesus’ teaching to take radical steps to remove the sources of temptation or sin?

• Jehu’s obedience to God’s call was a difficult but necessary act of judgment. In what ways do you find it challenging to obey God when it requires making difficult or uncomfortable decisions?

• How can you rely on God’s strength to take the steps He’s calling you to make?

• Just as Jehu was given a specific mission, we, too, are called to “crucify the flesh” with its sinful desires. What practical actions can you take this week to live out that calling?

• How can you seek accountability and support from others to help you in your journey of putting sin to death?

• Jehu was called to bring judgment and cleansing to the nation, and we are called to live lives of holiness. What does it mean to you to live in daily repentance and holiness before God?

• In what ways can you ask the Holy Spirit to guide and empower you in your pursuit of holiness?

2 Kings 10

In 2 Kings 10, we see Jehu on a mission to purge Israel of idolatry and sin. After being anointed king, Jehu goes on a warpath, executing the kings of both Israel and Judah, killing Jezebel, and sending word to slaughter the 70 sons of Ahab. In his quest, Jehu wipes out the house of Ahab, destroys all the prophets and followers of Baal, and crushes Baal worship in Israel.

On the surface, it seems like a decisive victory for Yahweh. Jehu’s actions appear to be fueled by a “zeal for the Lord” (2 Kings 10:16), and his efforts to eradicate Baal worship seem commendable. By all accounts, Jehu’s mission looks like a massive success.

However, the story turns when we realize Jehu didn’t go far enough. While he successfully eliminated Baal worship, he left the worship of the golden calves untouched. These idols, introduced by Jeroboam, had been a snare for Israel for generations. Jehu’s partial obedience is exposed—he removed foreign gods but allowed Israel’s historical sins to remain. His zeal was incomplete, and as a result, Israel remained entrenched in sin.

Ironically, in other matters, Jehu went too far. While he was praised in 2 Kings 10:30 for carrying out the Lord’s will against Ahab’s house, Hosea 1:4 reveals that Jehu was later punished for the bloodshed at Jezreel. Why? Because of his zeal, Jehu also killed Ahaziah, the king of Judah, a descendant of David—something that God never commanded. In his effort to execute justice, Jehu crossed the line, shedding innocent blood and disobeying the Lord.

Are we careful not to confuse personal preferences with sin issues, going too far and harming others in the process? Jehu’s story challenges us to reflect on these questions. We are called to eliminate sin from our lives, but according to God’s Word, we must avoid both extremes of not going far enough and going too far.

Reflection Questions:

• Jehu was praised for his zeal, but his partial obedience left room for sin. Are there areas in your life where you are being “partially obedient” to God’s commands?

• What steps can you take to fully address the sin in your life, rather than leaving parts of it untouched?

• Jehu went too far in killing Ahaziah, crossing a line that God did not command. Are there areas in your life where you’ve confused your own opinions or preferences with God’s commands?

• We are called to put all sins to death, not just the obvious ones like greed or lust. What are the “golden calves” in your life—those less obvious sins you’ve tolerated?

• How can you confront and remove those sins, even if they seem minor or culturally accepted?

• Jehu’s zeal resulted in both obedience and disobedience. How can you balance your zeal for righteousness with humility and grace, ensuring you don’t “swing the sword” too wildly?

• This story shows that both not going far enough and too far are forms of disobedience. How can you avoid both extremes by faithfully obeying God’s Word?

• What practical steps can you take to stay grounded in Scripture, allowing God’s Word to guide all things?

2 Kings 7-8

Preston Scott | October 13, 2024

In this message, Preston Scott teaches from 2 Kings 7-8. In these chapters, the city of Samaria suffers a severe famine, leading to desperate acts, but four lepers discover an abandoned Syrian camp filled with supplies and bring news of deliverance. Their courageous act contrasts with King Jehoram's disbelief, emphasizing the struggle between faith and doubt. Also, the Shunammite woman, previously aided by Elisha, experiences God's faithfulness when her land is restored, demonstrating that God remains sovereign and true to His promises despite human failures.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 7

In 2 Kings 7, we find the city of Samaria in the midst of a devastating famine, so severe that people are driven to desperate measures, including cannibalism (2 Kings 6:24-29). This tragic situation was prophesied long before in Deuteronomy 28:52-53 as a consequence of rebellion against God. Choices matter, and the famine in Samaria results from years of turning away from God. Yet, even in this place of desperation, we see a powerful story of deliverance.

Four lepers, the outcasts of society, sat at the city gates, pondering their options. With nothing to lose, they decided to go to the Syrian camp, hoping for mercy. When they arrived, they discovered the camp deserted—God had caused the Syrians to flee, leaving behind all their food, supplies, and treasures. Unbeknownst to the people of Samaria, God had already delivered them from the famine, using the most unlikely messengers—the lowest of the low—to bring the good news.

This story mirrors many themes throughout Scripture. Just as God often chooses the humble and overlooked to accomplish His purposes, the four lepers—who had no status or importance — became the first to discover and proclaim deliverance. Their courage and determination, even in their desperation, led them to experience the abundance God had prepared and share it with the rest of the city.

This reminds us of the Gospel itself, where Jesus chose humble, unlikely people to spread the good news of deliverance and salvation. It's a powerful reminder that God’s ways often contradict human wisdom. While Jehoram, the king of Israel, was still relying on his own strength and resources to figure out how to solve the problem, the outcasts were the ones to announce salvation, enlightening us about the contrast between human wisdom and God's ways.

One of the most striking parts of this chapter is the contrast between belief and unbelief. When the lepers return and announce the good news, the king hesitates to believe. He suspects a trap and sends out a search party, unsure if the Syrians had truly left or were using this as bait. The king’s response reveals something more profound—his struggle with unbelief. Even though deliverance had come, he could not trust it. His doubt prevented him from fully embracing the freedom God had already provided.

An unnamed captain in the king’s army is also mentioned in this chapter. He had doubted Elisha’s prophecy that God would provide food and deliverance for Samaria. Because of his unbelief, Elisha prophesied that while the captain would see the deliverance, he would not partake in it. Sure enough, when the abundance of food arrived, the crowds trampled the captain as they rushed out of the city.

Reflection Questions:

• The four lepers acted in desperation, but their simple decision to move forward led to discovering God’s deliverance. In what areas of your life do you feel stuck or desperate? How can you take a step of faith, even if it seems small?

• Are there situations where you feel paralyzed, but God is calling you to trust Him and move forward?

• Jehoram struggled to trust in the deliverance God had already provided. Do you find it difficult to believe in God’s provision when you don’t immediately see the evidence?

• How can you confront and surrender your doubts to God, trusting in His timing and provision?

• The four lepers, though outcasts, became the first to bring good news to the city. How can you be a messenger of hope and good news to those around you, especially in difficult times?

• Are there people in your life who need to hear the message of God’s deliverance? How can you be the one to share it?

• God’s deliverance for Samaria came through an unexpected source—the lowest of the low. How does this challenge your expectations of how God works in the world?

2 Kings 8

In 2 Kings 8, we encounter the Shunammite woman from chapter 4, whose son Elisha had raised from the dead. Years later, God uses Elisha to instruct her to leave her land due to a coming famine. After seven years, she returns to find her land has been taken. Yet God, in His faithfulness, provides for her once again. The king, upon hearing the story of how Elisha had raised her son, restores all her land and the income she had lost.

The same God who healed her son years before continues to care for her in the face of adversity. Even though her circumstances seemed bleak, God honored His promise to her, reminding us that God always keeps His promises.

As the story continues, Elisha prophesies the death of Ben-Hadad, king of Syria, and reveals the eventual rise of Hazael to power. Hazael, filled with greed and ambition, murders Ben-Hadad to seize the throne. This shows the depth of sin in men's hearts and the lengths people will go to achieve power.

Elisha stares down Hazael, knowing the evil that is about to unfold, and yet, even this tragic turn of events does not thwart God’s overarching plan. Sin may cause chaos, but God still accomplishes His purposes.

The chapter also shifts focus to Jehoram’s reign in Judah. In 2 Kings 8:18-19, we see the consequences of Jehoram being unequally yoked in marriage to Ahab’s daughter, Athaliah. His alignment with the house of Ahab leads Judah down a destructive path. Despite Jehoram’s evil reign, God spares Judah for the sake of His promise to David—a reminder that God remains faithful to His covenant even in the face of human failure.

Reflection Questions:

• The Shunammite woman trusted God’s instruction and saw His faithfulness over time. In what areas of your life do you need to trust God’s promises, even when the immediate outcome is unclear?

• How can you remind yourself of God’s past faithfulness when facing current challenges?

• Elisha prophesied the rise of Hazael and the death of Ben-Hadad, but Hazael took matters into his own hands through murder. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to force an outcome rather than trusting God’s timing?

• What do you need to fully surrender and trust God to accomplish His purposes in His way?

• Elisha’s prophecy about Hazael shows God’s omniscience and sovereignty over human affairs. How does this truth shape your understanding of God’s control in the world and your personal life?

Throughout 2 Kings 7 and 8, we are presented with clear choices: the choice to trust God or rely on ourselves, the choice to be generous or greedy, the choice to walk in faith or stumble in unbelief. We see how sin clouds judgment and leads to poor choices, but we also see that God’s purposes are always accomplished despite human failure. God remains faithful, even when we are not. His promises endure through every generation.

Just as the people in 2 Kings made their own choices, we too must choose to follow God, trust His promises, and live in the light of His overwhelming generosity. Elisha’s prophecy reveals God’s omniscience—He knows the end from the beginning, and nothing escapes His sight. Let us trust in His sovereignty and walk in His ways, knowing He is faithful to fulfill every promise He has made.

2 Kings 5-6

Pastor Marshall Ochs | October 6, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 5-6. These chapters alternate the contrasting themes of generosity and greed. The author’s goal is to encourage reflection on these two themes and the fruit they produce. Yahweh is a miraculously generous God and His generosity is a character attribute His people should model on a daily basis.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

2 Kings 5:1-18

In 2 Kings 5, we encounter Naaman, a powerful military leader from Syria. Though he was successful in battle and favored by his king, Naaman had a major problem—he was a leper. His life was marked by both power and brokenness, yet, interestingly, God was using him even though Naaman didn’t know it (5:1). This is the backdrop for one of the most remarkable stories of God’s generosity and grace.

A young Israelite girl who had been taken captive and made a slave in Naaman’s household showed incredible faith and generosity. Even in her lowly position, she boldly suggests that Naaman seek healing from the prophet of Yahweh in Israel. Her faith in God’s power to heal is strong, and her desire to help Naaman—despite being his servant—reveals a heart of generosity.

This little girl could have been bitter or resentful toward Naaman, but instead, she shares the knowledge of Yahweh’s power. Her actions remind us that God’s ways often contradict what our culture values—He works through those the world overlooks, regardless of their circumstances or status.

When Naaman hears the girl’s suggestion, he goes to the Syrian king, who sends him to Israel. This reveals the misunderstanding between earthly power and divine authority. The Syrian king thought that prophets worked for the throne, but in Israel, the prophets served God, not kings.

Naaman arrives at Elisha’s house expecting a grand miracle, but Elisha doesn’t even come to the door. Instead, he sends a messenger to tell Naaman to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman’s pride is on full display with his reaction to Elisha.  He is offended—he expected a dramatic display of power, not a simple instruction to wash in a river. However, when Naaman humbles himself and obeys, he is completely healed.

This story is filled with examples of God’s generosity and how His people mirror that generosity. The little girl generously shares her knowledge of God’s power, even though she is a slave. God generously heals Naaman, a foreigner and a pagan, showing that His grace extends beyond the borders of Israel. Naaman’s response to his healing is generosity. He is transformed not only physically but spiritually as he recognizes Yahweh’s sovereignty and desires to honor Him.

Reflection Questions:

1. The Israelite servant girl, displayed great faith and generosity by pointing Naaman to Yahweh for healing. How can you share God’s love and truth with others, even in difficult or uncomfortable situations?

2. Are there people in your life who need to hear about God’s power and grace, but you’ve hesitated to speak up?

3. Naaman was initially offended by the simplicity of Elisha’s instruction, but when he obeyed, he was healed. How do you respond when God’s answers seem too simple or not what you expected?

4. Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to humble obedience, even when it doesn’t seem “grand” enough?

5. Naaman’s healing led him to declare that Yahweh is the only true God. How has God’s generosity in your life led to a deeper understanding of His power and love?

2 Kings 5:19-27

In this next segment, we encounter a stark contrast between generosity and greed. After God healed Naaman of leprosy, Naaman was so moved that he wanted to give gifts to Elisha as a gesture of gratitude. Elisha refused, showing that God’s grace and healing cannot be purchased. Naaman, Elisha, and God Himself demonstrated immense generosity throughout this chapter.

But Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, saw an opportunity to enrich himself. Driven by greed, he ran after Naaman, lied to him, and took money and clothing under false pretenses. Gehazi thought he could get away with it, but his greed was soon exposed. Elisha confronted him, and Gehazi was struck with the very leprosy that Naaman had been healed from. Ultimately, Gehazi’s greed brought sickness, not the wealth and comfort he craved.

This story invites us to reflect on the two paths that lead to very different outcomes. Generosity produces more generosity. When we give freely, we open the door for God’s blessings to flow into our lives and the lives of others. Greed produces more greed and ultimately leads to destruction. When we allow greed to drive our decisions, we not only harm others, but we harm ourselves. Gehazi’s inner corruption manifested outwardly in the form of leprosy.

This story isn’t just about financial generosity. It’s about the heart behind our actions. A heart of generosity mirrors God’s own heart, while a heart of greed seeks to serve itself at the expense of others. Just as Gehazi’s greed manifested in physical sickness, our inner greed can manifest in spiritual sickness, cutting us off from the abundant life God desires for us.

Reflection Questions:

1. Gehazi’s greed led him to deceive Naaman and take what wasn’t his. Are there areas in your life where greed or selfish desires have taken control?

2. How can you shift your focus from acquiring more to giving more generously to others?

3. How can you demonstrate God’s generosity by serving others without expecting anything in return?

2 Kings 6

In 2 Kings 6, we continue to see multiple stories that reveal the contrast between God’s generosity and human greed. The first part of the chapter tells a seemingly small story about a group of prophets needing more living space. While chopping wood for their new home, one prophet loses a borrowed axe head in the water. This may seem like a minor problem, but to the prophet, it was a big deal because the axe was borrowed.

Elisha doesn’t dismiss the prophet’s distress. Instead, he responds generously, performing a miracle by making the iron axe head float to the surface. This simple yet powerful act of generosity reminds us that God cares about even the small, everyday details of our lives. God is not only involved in the big, life-altering moments but also in the small, personal challenges we face. His generosity extends to every corner of our lives, and He provides for us in ways that are often unexpected and miraculous.

As we move further into 2 Kings 6, we see another contrast between God’s generosity and human greed. The king of Syria is plotting to attack Israel, but Elisha, through divine revelation, spoils the Syrian king’s plans by warning Israel. Instead of seeking peace or understanding, the Syrian king’s response is driven by greed—he wants to seize Elisha for himself, to exploit his prophetic power for his own benefit.

Where man seeks to take and exploit, God continues to show generosity. Elisha isn’t driven by self-interest or a desire for power; instead, he uses his gifts for the benefit of others, revealing a heart aligned with God’s generosity. In contrast, the Syrian king's greed only leads to conflict and attempts to control what he cannot.

In the final section of the chapter, 2 Kings 6:14-23, we see God’s generosity displayed on an even larger scale. When the Syrian army surrounds Elisha, his servant is terrified. But Elisha prays, and God opens the servant’s eyes to see the heavenly army protecting them. Yahweh’s generosity is evident in His protection of His people. Instead of destroying the Syrian army, Elisha asks God to blind them, leads them into the heart of Israel, and then prays for their sight to be restored.

Even more striking, instead of attacking or exploiting the captured army, Elisha commands that they be fed and sent home. Yahweh is generous not only to His people but also to the pagan nation of Syria, showing mercy and grace where none was deserved. This act of generosity brings peace, as the Syrian raiders no longer come into Israel (6:23).

The message is clear: while human nature often leads to greed, taking and exploiting God’s nature is one of generosity, healing, saving, and setting free.

Reflection Questions:

1. Elisha was concerned about the lost axe head and took action to help, even though it might have seemed like a small matter. How can we demonstrate the same level of concern for those around us in what may seem "trivial" in our eyes?

2. Are there people in your life burdened by issues that might seem trivial? How can you show empathy and support them, reflecting God's care for the most minor details in our lives?

3. Are there areas where you need to trust God more with the “small things,” believing He cares and will provide?

4. The Syrian king’s greed led him to try to seize Elisha and exploit his power. In what ways can greed manifest in our own lives, especially when we try to control situations?

5. Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened to see the heavenly army protecting them. How do you respond when you feel surrounded by challenges?

6. May we regularly pray for those around us, for God to open their spiritual eyes, ourselves included.

7. Instead of destroying the captured Syrian army, Elisha fed them and sent them home. How does this act of generosity challenge the way you treat those who may be considered enemies or those who have wronged you?

These stories point us to Jesus, the ultimate embodiment of God’s miraculous generosity. Through Jesus, we have received changed lives, spiritual healing, physical and spiritual protection, and the promise of eternal life.

2 Kings 3-4

Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 29, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 3-4. These chapters follow the ministry of Elisha at the national level and the local level. They reveal a God who shows great compassion on His people in the midst of a spiritual drought and pervasive wickedness. In addition, these chapters foreshadow the future ministry of John the Baptist and Jesus — a call to repentance and a compassion for the lost.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

In 2 Kings 3, we encounter a story that mirrors our spiritual battles and choices. After King Ahab dies, Moab rebels against Israel, refusing to continue paying tribute. Israel allied with Judah and Edom to go to war against Moab, but the kings made a critical mistake—they set out on their mission without first seeking God’s guidance.

As the alliance marches through the desert, they soon find themselves without water, and King Jehoram of Israel panics, believing that God is out to destroy them. This reveals a key lesson: when we make decisions without prayer and seeking God’s will, we can easily find ourselves in difficult situations. But Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, reminds us of the right response in such moments—seek the Lord.

Jehoshaphat asks for a prophet to inquire of the Lord, and Elisha appears. Through Elisha, God promises to provide water for their troops and victory in battle. Despite their poor decisions, God remains faithful, offering mercy and guidance to those who seek Him.

In our own lives, we often try to take control of situations without asking for God’s direction. When things go wrong, we panic, just like Jehoram. But God, in His kindness, reminds us to turn to Him in prayer. Jesus is always there, inviting us to seek Him, even when we’ve made poor choices. This serves as a reminder that God’s faithfulness and provision are always available to those who humble themselves and seek His will.

As the battle unfolds, God provides a miraculous victory for Israel by using the water to deceive the Moabites. However, the story takes a dark turn when the king of Moab, in desperation, sacrifices his own son to the false god Chemosh. The Moabites believed such a sacrifice would invoke supernatural power.

The people of Israel, who had also been serving idols like Baal, experienced the consequences of aligning themselves with demonic powers. The text says, “great wrath came against Israel” (2 Kings 3:27). This act of devotion to a false god unleashed spiritual forces against Israel.

You cannot serve both God and demonic forces and expect God’s blessing. Spiritual rebellion invites destructive consequences. This story teaches us that engaging in or allowing things that align with demonic powers—whether idol worship or other forms of rebellion—can have devastating effects.

Despite the spiritual battle and the consequences of Israel’s rebellion, God’s kindness is woven throughout. He provides water, offers victory, and gives hope even in chaos. This reminds us that God’s mercy and grace are always present, even when we face spiritual battles. His kindness overwhelms the wrath of our enemies, both physical and spiritual, when we turn to Him in faith.

Reflection Questions:

• Jehoshaphat sought the Lord when things went wrong, while Jehoram panicked. In moments of crisis, do you tend to panic or seek God’s guidance?

• How can you develop the habit of seeking God first before making decisions or facing challenges?

• Elisha delivered God’s word of provision and victory despite the alliance’s poor choices. How does this demonstrate God’s faithfulness even when we make mistakes?

• In what areas of your life have you experienced God’s mercy, even after making poor decisions?

• The story connects child sacrifice to demonic influence. How should we, as a church, think about modern issues like abortion in light of this spiritual reality?

• Are there areas in your life where you have allowed influences that are not of God? How can you surrender those areas to Him?

• Despite Israel’s rebellion and the presence of demonic forces, God’s kindness shines through in the story. How have you experienced God’s overwhelming kindness in your life?

In 2 Kings 4, we see God working through the prophet Elisha in ways that foreshadow the ministry of Jesus. The chapter contains four miraculous stories, each with a message of hope and power. From helping a poor widow pay off her debts to raising a child from the dead, healing poisoned stew, and multiplying bread to feed the hungry, this chapter highlights God’s care for both the mighty and the ordinary, the big and the small.

Elisha helps a poor widow about to lose everything because of debt. She follows his instructions to gather empty jars, and God miraculously fills each one with oil. This teaches us that God provides for our needs but often asks for our faith and obedience in the process.

Elisha blesses a Shunammite woman with a prophetic word that she will have a child, and the promise comes true. But when her son suddenly dies, Elisha raises him from the dead, showing God’s power over life and death. This story parallels Jesus’ miracles of raising the dead and reminds us of God’s faithfulness to His promises, even in dire circumstances.

A man brings a small offering of bread to Elisha, which isn’t enough to feed the people. But God multiplies it, leaving leftovers just as He did when Jesus fed the multitudes. This story reveals God’s power to provide abundantly, even when it seems impossible.

What’s happening in these stories is more than just individual miracles. These miracles foreshadow the ministry of Jesus. Just as Elijah’s ministry of repentance mirrors John the Baptist, Elisha’s ministry parallels that of Jesus.

Filling the jars: Just as Elisha filled jars with oil, Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding, symbolizing joy and abundance.

Raising the dead: Elisha raised the Shunammite woman’s son, just as Jesus raised people like Jairus’ daughter.

Multiplying bread: Elisha fed a crowd with a small offering of bread, just as Jesus fed thousands with just a few loaves and fish.

God reveals His pattern of working through mighty showdowns (as in Elijah’s ministry) and humble acts of service (as in Elisha’s ministry). Both are aspects of God’s work in the world and point to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of these promises. Jesus is the mighty warrior who conquers sin and the humble servant who meets our everyday needs.

One powerful takeaway from 2 Kings 4 is that God is at work on both the grand and personal scales. At the national level, God is working out His plan for His people, calling them to repentance and showing His authority over false gods. At the same time, God is intimately involved in the lives of everyday people—widows, mothers, and the hungry. No need is too small, and no challenge is too big for God’s intervention.

As we reflect on this passage, we are reminded to consider how God is working in our lives. We shouldn’t rush off to fight battles without first seeking His direction. Instead, we are invited to join what God is already doing.

Reflection Questions:

• The widow had to gather empty jars for the oil to flow. What “empty jars” are in your life that you need to bring to God so He can fill them?

• Are there areas where you need to step out in faith, trusting God to provide in ways you cannot see?

• The Shunammite woman’s faith was tested when her son died, but God restored him to life. How has your faith been tested in difficult circumstances?

• In what ways has God proven His faithfulness, even when things seemed hopeless?

• Elisha multiplied the bread to feed the hungry, just as Jesus did. Where do you see God’s provision in your life, even when resources seem limited?

• This passage shows both God’s mighty power and His humble service. How can you reflect both of these aspects of God’s character in your own life?

As you reflect on 2 Kings 4 this week, remember that God is at work in both the extraordinary and the ordinary. Seek His guidance in all things, and be open to the ways He wants to use you to bring hope, healing, and provision to those around you. Trust that He is with you, providing for your needs and leading you in His purpose.

2 Kings 1-2

Pastor Marshall Ochs | September 22, 2024

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 2 Kings 1-2. These chapters cover the end of Elijah’s ministry and the start of Elisha’s ministry. Within this transition, we see God declare Himself as the rightful king over Israel and start to understand His plan for bringing redemption to the nation. Elisha replays the Joshua conquest of Canaan, but this time shows mercy over judgment and emphasizes the repercussions of breaking covenant with God. These chapters ask the question, who is the true and rightful king — in Israel, among the nations, and in our own hearts?

Watch

Listen

Reflect

As we move from 1 Kings to 2 Kings, we encounter the tragic continuation of a family legacy of wickedness. Ahaziah, the son of Ahab and Jezebel, reigns in Israel after his father’s death. His reign is marked by the same wickedness that characterized his father and mother, as he "did what was evil in the sight of the Lord." The chronicling of the kings of Judah and Israel serves as a sobering reminder of how the sins of one generation can be passed down to the next.

Ahab’s wickedness didn’t just affect him; it carried over into Ahaziah’s life, leading him to follow in his parents' sinful footsteps. As a result, Ahaziah’s reign is short-lived, marked by tragedy and sickness. What begins with Ahab’s disobedience leads to a national trend of abandoning God’s ways.

In 2 Kings 1:2, Ahaziah reacts to a personal crisis. After falling through a lattice in his upper room and becoming seriously injured, he doesn’t turn to Yahweh, the God of Israel, for help. Instead, he sends messengers to consult Baal-Zebub, the god of Ekron, a Philistine city. This decision is not only a rejection of Yahweh but also an indication of how far Israel had strayed from the true God.

The fact that Ahaziah sought counsel from a foreign god in another country emphasizes the depth of his spiritual blindness. It wasn’t enough that he had turned to Baal—he went out of his way to seek counsel from a false god outside his nation. As Israel’s leaders continually rejected God’s ways, they created a culture where prayer and seeking Yahweh were unheard of, while turning to idols was the norm.

This challenges us to consider how the normalization of sin may influence our societies, families, and lives. When sin becomes commonplace, it desensitizes us to God, His Word, His commandments, His holiness, and His leading. We may begin to seek worldly solutions to problems, forgetting that God alone is our source of wisdom, guidance, and healing.  He has given us everything we need for life and godliness!

Reflection Questions:

• Are there areas where you continue in sin from previous generations? Will you repent and turn to Christ? He will clothe us in righteousness!

• Ahaziah didn’t turn to Yahweh when he faced a crisis; instead, he sought help from Baal in a foreign land. Where do you turn in times of trouble?

• Are there areas in your life where you are seeking worldly solutions instead of turning to God for help? How can you shift your focus back to God, the Source of all we need?

• The normalization of sin led Ahaziah to consider seeking God as abnormal. Will you ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and reveal any sins you have been desensitized to or ways you’ve looked at the world for answers?

2 Kings 1:3-18

At first glance, Ahaziah is a king who wants to assert his power and control, sending soldiers to bring Elijah to him. But below the surface, this passage reveals a much deeper struggle: a battle between two kings—Ahaziah and Yahweh. Who is the true king of Israel? Who holds the authority to govern the lives of the people?

Like many today, Ahaziah had allowed sin to distort his view of power and authority. He thought he could control the situation by sending armies of fifty men to force Elijah, the prophet of God, to bend to his will. But as we see in this passage, Yahweh’s power is supreme. In the face of Ahaziah’s arrogance, fire falls from heaven, consuming the soldiers. The conflict between Ahaziah and Yahweh is about more than just political power—it’s about who has the right to rule.

This story mirrors the earlier confrontation in 1 Kings 18:20-45, where fire fell from heaven in the showdown between Elijah and the prophets of Baal. Just as that conflict was about showing who the true God is, the conflict between Ahaziah and Yahweh is about revealing who the true King is.

Just as Ahaziah tried to rule over Israel, we often try to rule over our own lives. We might not send armies, but we often resist God's authority, acting as if we are in charge. Sin distorts our view, making us think we are the kings and queens of our lives. But this passage reminds us that God is the true King, the One who governs and holds all authority. It challenges us to recognize that we are not in control and to surrender to His authority.

In contrast to Ahaziah’s arrogance, we see the humility of the third captain sent to Elijah. After witnessing what happened to the previous two groups, he falls down before Elijah and pleads for mercy. This captain acknowledges that he is not in control and that Elijah’s God, Yahweh, is the true King. His humility saves him and his men from the consuming fire.

This moment invites us to consider our posture before God. Are we like Ahaziah, stubbornly trying to assert our own rule? Or are we like the third captain, willing to bow down, admit our need for mercy, and recognize God as King over our lives?

Reflection Questions:

• Ahaziah tries to assert his power by sending troops to capture Elijah. Are there areas in your life where you are trying to assert control instead of surrendering to God’s authority?

• What steps can you take this week to surrender those areas to Him?

• Are there moments when you’ve resisted God’s authority? How can you learn from those moments?

• The third captain falls down and pleads for mercy, acknowledging Yahweh’s power. Are you willing to humble yourself before God and declare His sovereignty?

2 Kings 2

Elijah and Elisha’s final journey together, from Bethel to Jericho to the Jordan River, mirrors the reverse of Joshua’s conquest of the Promised Land. This reversal symbolizes a time of spiritual decline in Israel—a land now polluted with idolatry and rebellion against Yahweh.

As Elijah and Elisha cross the Jordan, they part the waters, just as Joshua did in his conquest of the land. But now, the parting of the waters represents something different—a departure. Prophets are leaving the land, signaling that the people no longer welcome Yahweh's presence. Elisha is tested three times, tempted to “stay back,” but he remains faithful, passing the test to follow his master Elijah to the end.

This transition from Elijah to Elisha mirrors the earlier transition from Moses to Joshua. Elisha isn’t just asking for power; he’s asking for the same authority and responsibility that Elijah carried—the authority to proclaim that Yahweh is King.

Elisha’s success in receiving the “double portion” hinges on one condition: that he sees Elijah taken up to heaven. But what is it that Elisha truly sees? He sees Yahweh’s greater army—the chariots and horsemen of fire, the power and majesty of God far beyond any earthly king or kingdom. This vision is not just about Elijah’s departure but Yahweh’s authority. Elisha understands Elijah’s anointing: Yahweh is the true King, and His rule is unmatched.

Elisha picks up Elijah’s mantle, a symbol of his authority, and crosses back into Israel. Once again, Joshua’s conquest message is proclaimed: Yahweh is King.

Something interesting happens after Elisha crosses the Jordan. Where we expect judgment, we see mercy—at Jericho, a city once cursed, Elisha brings healing to the water supply (2 Kings 2:19-22). And where we expect mercy, we see judgment—at Bethel, the center of idolatrous worship, young boys mock Elisha, and Yahweh sends she-bears in judgment (2 Kings 2:23-25).

The mockery isn’t about Elisha’s physical appearance; it’s about rejecting his authority as a prophet and, more importantly, rejecting God’s authority. Bethel was steeped in Baal worship, and the boys’ mocking words reflected a deep-seated rejection of Yahweh: “God has no authority here!” This act of rebellion recalls the warnings from Leviticus 26:21-24, where God promises judgment for those who break His covenant.

The she-bears symbolize God’s covenant judgment. Elisha’s curse isn’t arbitrary—it’s a response to a people who have long rejected Yahweh’s authority. This is a reminder that while God’s mercy is real, His judgment is also inevitable for those who mock and reject Him.

This passage brings us to a critical question: Who is the true and rightful King over our lives? Is it Yahweh, the one true God, or do we allow other “kings” to rule—whether they are cultural idols, our own desires, or even human authorities who reject God? The people of Israel had allowed idolatry to pollute their land, just as we sometimes allow sin and rebellion to pollute our hearts.

In a world where God is often mocked or dismissed, we have a choice. Will we, like Ahaziah, seek to blame others for our spiritual condition and chase after false gods? Or will we, like Elisha, pick up the mantle of faith, roll it up, and get to work proclaiming the truth that Yahweh is King?

The answer to this question has already been given. At Pentecost, fire fell from heaven, just as it did in Elijah’s day, signifying the outpouring of God’s Spirit and the beginning of the Church’s mission to proclaim the gospel to the nations. The battle over who will be king is over—every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Romans 14:11). Our task is to proclaim that truth, bringing healing to cursed cities and warning those who mock God of the coming judgment.

Reflection Questions:

• Elisha was tested three times to stay back but chose to follow Elijah to the end. Are there areas in your life where you are being tempted to “stay back” from following God fully?

• What can you do to press forward and remain faithful, even when others encourage you to turn away?

• Are there areas where you’ve been tempted to let other “kings” take the throne? How can you surrender those areas to God today?

• The judgment on the boys in Bethel was a result of mocking God’s authority. Do you see evidence of God’s authority being mocked in our society today?

• Elisha picked up Elijah’s mantle and crossed the Jordan, symbolizing his role in continuing God’s mission. Are you ready to “pick up the mantle” and proclaim that Yahweh is King in your sphere of influence?

• What practical steps can you take this week to be a voice for God’s authority and truth?

Lord, we acknowledge that You are the One true King. Forgive us for the times we have allowed other “kings” to rule over our hearts. Like Elisha, we want to be faithful to You, following wherever You lead, even when others tell us to turn back. Help us to see Your authority clearly and to proclaim that You are King with boldness and grace. Give us the strength to pick up the mantle of faith and bring healing to our communities, knowing that the fire of Your Spirit empowers us to fulfill Your mission. In Jesus’ name, Amen.