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Commentary on 2 Kings 6 verses 1–7
Several things may be observed here,
I. Concerning the sons of the prophets, and their condition and character. The college here spoken of seems to be that at Gilgal, for there Elisha was (Kg2 4:38), and it was near Jordan; and, probably, wherever Elisha resided as many as could of the sons of the prophets flocked to him for the advantage of his instructions, counsels, and prayers. Every one would covet to dwell with him and be near him. Those that would be teachers should lay out themselves to get the best advantages for learning. Now observe,
1.Their number increased so that they wanted room: The place is too strait for us (Kg2 6:1) - a good hearing, for it is a sign many are added to them. Elisha's miracles doubtless drew in many. Perhaps they increased the more now that Gehazi was cashiered, and, it is likely, an honester man put in his room, to take care of their provisions; for it should seem (by that instance, Kg2 4:43) that Naaman's case was not the only one in which he grudged his master's generosity.
2.They were humble men and did not affect that which was gay or great. When they wanted room they did not speak of sending for cedars, and marble stones, and curious artificers, but only of getting every man a beam, to run up a plain hut or cottage with. It becomes the sons of the prophets, who profess to look for great things in the other world, to be content with mean things in this.
3.They were poor men, and men that had no interest in great ones It was a sign that Joram was king, and Jezebel ruled too, or the sons of the prophets, when they wanted room, would have needed only to apply to the government, not to consult among themselves about the enlargement of their buildings. God's prophets have seldom been the world's favourites. Nay, so poor were they that they had not wherewithal to hire workmen (but must leave their studies, and work for themselves), no, nor to buy tools, but must borrow of their neighbours. Poverty then is no bar to prophecy.
4.They were industrious men, and willing to take pains. They desired not to live, like idle drones (idle monks, I might have said), upon the labours of others, but only desired leave of their president to work for themselves. As the sons of the prophets must not be so taken up with contemplation as to render themselves unfit for action, so much less must they so indulge themselves in their ease as to be averse to labour. He that must eat or die must work or starve, Th2 3:8, Th2 3:10. Let no man think an honest employment either a burden or disparagement.
5.They were men that had a great value and veneration for Elisha; though they were themselves prophets, they paid much deference to him. (1.) They would not go about to build at all without his leave, Kg2 6:2. It is good for us all to be suspicious of our own judgment, even when we think we have most reason for it, and to be desirous of the advice of those who are wiser and more experienced; and it is especially commendable in the sons of the prophets to take their fathers along with them, and to act in all things of moment under their direction, permissu superiorum - by permission of their superiors. (2.) They would not willingly go to fell timber without his company: "Go with thy servants (Kg2 6:3), not only to advise us in any exigence, but to keep good order among us, that, being under they eye, we may behave as becomes us." Good disciples desire to be always under good discipline.
6.They were honest men, and men that were in care to give all men their own. When one of them, accidentally fetching too fierce a stroke (as those that work seldom are apt to be violent), threw off his axe-head into the water, he did not say, "It was a mischance, and who can help it? It was the fault of the helve, and the owner deserved to stand to the loss." No, he cries out with deep concern, Alas, master! For it was borrowed, Kg2 6:5. Had the axe been his own, it would only have troubled him that he could not be further serviceable to his brethren; but now, besides that, it troubles him that he cannot be just to the owner, to whom he ought to be not only just but grateful. Note, We ought to be as careful of that which is borrowed as of that which is our own, that it receives no damage, because we must love our neighbour as ourselves and do as we would be done by. It is likely this prophet was poor, and had not wherewithal to pay for the axe, which made the loss of it so much the greater trouble. To those that have an honest mind the sorest grievance of poverty is not so much their own want or disgrace as their being by it rendered unable to pay their just debts.
II. Concerning the father of the prophets, Elisha. 1. That he was a man of great condescension and compassion; he went with the sons of the prophets to the woods, when they desired his company, Kg2 6:3. Let no man, especially no minister, think himself to great to stoop to do good, but be tender to all. 2. That he was a man of great power; he could make iron to swim, contrary to its nature (Kg2 6:6), for the God of nature is not tied up to its laws. He did not throw the helve after the hatchet, but cut down a new stick, and cast it into the river. We need not double the miracle by supposing that the stick sunk to fetch up the iron, it was enough that it was a signal of the divine summons to the iron to rise. God's grace can thus raise the stony iron heart which has sunk into the mud of this world, and raise up affections naturally earthly, to things above.
These words were fulfilled by the apostles: the house of the sacrifices of the Law was too small for them, and when they realized that the meeting place of the Jews was not sufficient for the greatness of the gospel, they set out to build a holy church where they gathered the children of God, who are righteous. This is what Isaiah had pointed out to them in advance by the word of the Lord when he said, “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the survivors of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
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SUMMARY
Second Kings 6:1 opens a new narrative segment by presenting a practical challenge faced by the community of prophetic disciples gathered around Elisha: their current dwelling has become inadequate due to their increasing numbers. This verse shifts the narrative focus from Elisha's individual miraculous deeds to the communal life and growth of the "sons of the prophets," underscoring their reliance on Elisha's leadership to address a pressing logistical need for more space.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Dialogue, directly quoting the "sons of the prophets" addressing Elisha. This direct speech immediately establishes the problem and the relationship between the disciples and their leader, adding immediacy and authenticity to the narrative. The structure of the passage also functions as a Problem/Solution Narrative, where this verse clearly articulates the problem—the inadequate dwelling—which will be addressed by Elisha's subsequent actions and God's miraculous provision in the verses that follow. The phrase "too strait" uses Figurative Language through a literal description of physical confinement, which also implicitly symbolizes the burgeoning spiritual movement that is outgrowing its current boundaries, hinting at the need for expansion and new horizons for God's work. Furthermore, the narrative employs Foreshadowing, as the immediate need for space hints at the subsequent miracle of the floating axe head, demonstrating God's care for even the most mundane needs of His servants.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully illustrates that God's work, even when profoundly spiritual, often has tangible, practical dimensions. The growth of the "sons of the prophets" is a testament to God's blessing and the vitality of the prophetic movement in Israel, indicating a hunger for God's word and guidance amidst a largely apostate nation. This expansion, however, brings with it a practical challenge: inadequate space. The disciples' respectful appeal to Elisha models the importance of bringing practical needs before spiritual leadership, trusting in God's provision through His appointed servants. It also reminds us that spiritual communities are living organisms that require adaptation and foresight to accommodate growth, recognizing that God's kingdom often expands in ways that necessitate physical and logistical adjustments, highlighting that God cares about the practical well-being of His people as much as their spiritual state.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The humble request of the "sons of the prophets" in 2 Kings 6:1 offers profound lessons for contemporary spiritual communities and individual believers. It reminds us that genuine spiritual growth often manifests in practical ways, requiring us to adapt and expand our capacity for God's work. When a church or ministry experiences numerical or spiritual growth, it inevitably encounters logistical challenges, whether it's a need for more space, more leaders, or more resources. This passage encourages us to view such challenges not as obstacles, but as indicators of God's blessing and opportunities for further faith and innovation. Furthermore, the disciples' respectful approach to Elisha underscores the value of seeking wise counsel from spiritual leaders and addressing practical needs within a framework of community and mutual support. It calls us to be attentive to the physical and practical realities that can either facilitate or hinder spiritual flourishing, ensuring that our structures and resources adequately support the mission God has given us and that we are prepared to expand as God moves.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Who were the "sons of the prophets" and what was their purpose?
Answer: The "sons of the prophets" were not biological children of prophets, but rather members of prophetic guilds or schools. They were disciples, students, and apprentices who dedicated themselves to studying God's law, learning from a senior prophet (like Elijah and then Elisha), and engaging in prophetic ministry. Their purpose was to preserve and propagate the prophetic tradition in Israel, serving as a spiritual counter-cultural movement to the prevalent idolatry and moral decline of their time. They lived communally, often in specific locations such as Gilgal, Bethel, and Jericho, and were trained in discerning God's voice and delivering His messages to the people. Their existence highlights a structured approach to spiritual formation and discipleship in ancient Israel, emphasizing community, mentorship, and devotion to God's word, as seen in various accounts throughout 1 Kings and 2 Kings.
Why was their dwelling "too strait"?
Answer: Their dwelling was "too strait" because the community of prophetic disciples had grown significantly in number. The Hebrew word tsar (צר), translated as "strait," means "narrow" or "confined," indicating that their current living quarters were overcrowded and no longer adequate for their expanding community. This growth suggests a period of spiritual vitality and increasing interest in prophetic ministry during Elisha's time, reflecting God's blessing upon their commitment to Him and His word. The practical problem of space was a direct result of God's work expanding among them, necessitating a new solution, which Elisha facilitated, as detailed in the subsequent verses of 2 Kings 6.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The growth of the "sons of the prophets" and their need for expanded dwelling space in 2 Kings 6:1 beautifully foreshadows the ultimate, boundless expansion of God's kingdom through Jesus Christ. Just as Elisha gathered disciples and fostered a community of learning and spiritual growth, Jesus Himself called and discipled a company of followers, preparing them to carry on His mission. The "strait" place of the Old Testament prophetic school finds its ultimate resolution in the boundless space of God's grace and the ever-expanding dwelling place of His Spirit in the hearts of believers. The Great Commission, given by Christ in Matthew 28:19-20, commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations," indicating a global expansion far beyond any physical dwelling. The early church, empowered by the Holy Spirit as promised in Acts 1:8, experienced explosive growth that quickly outgrew its initial confines, necessitating new forms of community and outreach, as chronicled throughout the book of Acts. Ultimately, Christ is the true "place" where believers dwell, the Vine from whom all spiritual growth flows, as taught in John 15:1-5. Through Him, believers are built together into a holy temple, a spiritual dwelling place for God, as described in Ephesians 2:19-22, demonstrating that in Christ, there is always room for more, and His kingdom is ever-expanding to encompass all who believe.