Subject: Why God killed boys for teasing Elisha |
Bible Note: Dear Val, Excuse me for buting in. I believe brother Doc will have a better answer. However, may I humbly offer my understanding as to Joash's crying over Elisha fatal illness. I believe Joash had been made known by his forefathers about Elisha in connection with the heavenly chariots and horsemen (2 King 6:17 when the King of Aram warred against Israel and God brought victory to Israel with His chariots and horsemen). Thus Joash regarded Elisha as the protection of Israel (v 5). This also shows that Joash relied on man not God. Both he and his father Jehoahaz did evil in the sight of the LORD (2 Kin 13:2, 13), but Jehoahaz at least did seek God's protection directly (v 4) while there was no mention about Joash of the same attitude. It is also interesting to see Joash cried out the same as what Elisha did when Elijah was taken away from him by God. (2 King 2:12). Just my 2 cents worth. Shalom Azure |