Context and Background

This verse sets the scene for an encounter between Elisha, the prophet of God, and a widow who is desperate for help. Her husband was a servant of God who had died, and now she is left in dire straits with her two sons. The situation highlights the economic struggles and societal pressures faced by widows in ancient Israel.

Key Themes

• Faith and Desperation: The widow’s cry reflects her deep faith in Elisha, as she turns to him in her time of need.
• Divine Provision: The narrative introduces God's ability to provide for those who trust in Him, which is a recurring theme throughout Scripture.
• Community Support: The plight of the widow underscores the importance of supporting the vulnerable within the community, a theme echoed in the laws of Israel.

Interpretation from Commentaries

Matthew Henry: Henry emphasizes the faith of the widow in approaching Elisha, which shows that those in distress should seek divine help. He notes that her situation reflects many spiritual truths, including the reliance on God in times of trouble.

Albert Barnes: Barnes points out that the widow's call for help highlights her recognition of Elisha’s authority as a man of God. He also connects her plight with the broader theme of God caring for His people, particularly the helpless.

Adam Clarke: Clarke focuses on the specifics of the widow’s situation, emphasizing the social implications of debt in ancient Israel. He reflects on her fear and the dire consequences of her creditor's demands, illustrating the harsh realities of her life.

Bible Cross-References

Examining this verse reveals connections to various other Scripture passages:

• Exodus 22:24-26: Discusses the treatment of widows and orphans, emphasizing God's concern for their welfare.
• James 1:27: Addresses pure religion as caring for orphans and widows, which aligns with the plight of the widow in 2 Kings 4:1.
• Matthew 6:26: Highlights God’s provision, stating that He cares for the birds and will certainly care for His people.
• 1 Timothy 5:3-5: Provides guidelines for honoring widows, which reflects the ongoing care for such individuals in the community.
• 2 Corinthians 9:8: Affirms God’s ability to provide abundantly for those in need, echoing the theme of divine care in this narrative.
• Luke 4:25-26: Illustrates God’s favor upon widows in times of need, connecting Old Testament experiences with New Testament revelation.
• Isaiah 1:17: Encourages believers to seek justice and help the oppressed, reinforcing the biblical obligation to assist those in distress.

Connections Between Bible Verses

This verse invites deeper exploration regarding various connections between Scripture:

• Thematic Exploration: The theme of divine rescue and provision through faith resonates in multiple narratives, including the stories of Job and Ruth.
• Inter-Biblical Dialogue: The widow's appeal to a prophet parallels other significant prophet encounters, such as those of Elijah and Elisha.
• Parallel Stories: The widow of Zarephath's story (1 Kings 17) provides insight into God's care for widows amidst dire circumstances.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

Understanding Bible verse connections involves utilizing various resources:

• Bible Concordance: An essential tool for locating specific verses and themes.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: A valuable resource for discovering related Scripture easily.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Engaging in this study methodology deepens understanding through connections.

Conclusion

The plight of the widow in 2 Kings 4:1 serves as a powerful reminder of faith, divine provision, and the importance of community support in times of trouble. By exploring related themes and cross-references, one can grasp the depth of God’s promise to care for the vulnerable in society.