Topical Bible: Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jehoram

◄ Reproof: Faithfulness in Elisha, of Jehoram ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the theme of reproof is intricately woven into the life and ministry of the prophet Elisha, particularly in his interactions with King Jehoram of Israel. Elisha, a prophet and successor to Elijah, is a central figure in the books of 1 and 2 Kings. His life exemplifies unwavering faithfulness to God, often serving as a divine instrument of reproof to the wayward kings of Israel, including Jehoram.

Context and Background

Jehoram, son of Ahab and Jezebel, reigned as king of Israel during a tumultuous period marked by idolatry and apostasy. Despite witnessing the miraculous works of God through the prophet Elijah, Jehoram continued in the sinful practices of his predecessors, albeit with some reforms. The Bible records that "he did evil in the sight of the LORD, though not like his father and mother, for he removed the pillar of Baal that his father had made" (2 Kings 3:2). Nevertheless, his reign was characterized by a lack of full devotion to the God of Israel.

Elisha's Reproof and Faithfulness

Elisha's role as a prophet was not only to perform miracles but also to deliver God's messages, including reproof, to the leaders of Israel. One significant instance of Elisha's reproof of Jehoram is found in 2 Kings 3. When the kings of Israel, Judah, and Edom sought Elisha's counsel during their campaign against Moab, Elisha initially expressed disdain for Jehoram, saying, "What have I to do with you? Go to the prophets of your father and the prophets of your mother" (2 Kings 3:13). This response highlights Elisha's awareness of Jehoram's insincere devotion and reliance on false prophets.

Despite his initial rebuke, Elisha, out of respect for Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, agreed to seek the LORD's guidance. The prophet's faithfulness to God and his commitment to truth are evident as he delivers a message of divine intervention, promising victory over Moab. This episode underscores Elisha's role as a faithful servant of God, willing to reprove and guide even those who have strayed from the covenant.

Further Instances of Reproof

Elisha's interactions with Jehoram continue to reflect his commitment to God's truth. In 2 Kings 6, when the Arameans besieged Samaria, Jehoram blamed the LORD for the dire situation. Elisha, however, prophesied deliverance, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the futility of Jehoram's misplaced blame. The subsequent miraculous provision of food, as foretold by Elisha, served as a reproof to Jehoram's lack of faith and trust in God's power.

Moreover, in 2 Kings 7, Elisha's prophecy of abundance in the midst of famine was met with skepticism by an officer of the king. Elisha's response, "You will see it with your own eyes, but you will not eat any of it" (2 Kings 7:2), was a direct reproof of doubt and disbelief, which was fulfilled as the officer was trampled at the city gate.

Conclusion

Elisha's ministry to Jehoram is a testament to the prophet's unwavering faithfulness and his role as a divine instrument of reproof. Through his interactions with the king, Elisha consistently pointed back to the sovereignty and faithfulness of God, calling the nation to repentance and trust in the LORD. His life serves as a powerful example of the prophetic office's responsibility to uphold God's truth, even in the face of opposition and unbelief.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 3:13,14
And Elisha said to the king of Israel, What have I to do with you? get you to the prophets of your father, and to the prophets of your mother. And the king of Israel said to him, No: for the LORD has called these three kings together, to deliver them into the hand of Moab.
Nave's Topical Index