NOTES for Ki2 4:1-44
Here we have several examples of miracles performed by Elisha. They were all concrete acts of mercy shown by Elisha to ordinary people who needed help. All these actions recall the miracles of the Gospel, for Elisha has no intention of making a spectacular impression on those who witness his deeds; he cares for the people who happen to be near him. His miracles are help for a poor widow, the raising of an only son, and care that people have food. To some, all these are everyday trifles unworthy of the attention of a sage soaring in the highest realms. But the path upward begins precisely with “small things.”
Yet Elisha’s disciple could not do what Elisha did. Gehazi’s inability to heal the child completely recalls the Gospel episode in which the disciples could not cast out a demon and earned their Teacher’s rebuke. Apparently, here too Gehazi revealed a crack in his ability to follow his mentor steadfastly. Christ’s disciples were later able to follow Him worthily. Gehazi, however, fell.