Verse by verse, together we dig into 2 Kings 5:1-15 (ESV)…
Hear the full audio of Bible Study from 17 January 2019
INTRODUCTION: The Catechism as Bible Study Tool
The Small Catechism is much more than a child’s initiation into the Christian faith. It is certainly also meant to be a parents’ handbook. The catechism helps to equip “the head of the household” with a summary of what and how to teach their children. These are the basics of Christian doctrine and the Christian life. Its language is simple enough. Its content is far reaching and deep.
The Catechism gives us a summary of the most important teachings throughout the Scriptures. The words are drawn from clear language and verses of Scripture itself. As the detailed Explanation to Luther’s Small Catechism shows, the many parts and questions each are answered with multiple Bible verses.
The better we know our Catechism, even as adults, the better we can come to understand the Bible itself, too. It serves as any layman’s (or any Pastor’s!) helpful roadmap and guide along the way. Among our Bible reading tools, this one always ought to be close at hand also. Think of it as a sort of Chilton’s book, identifying key parts and pieces of whatever passage we happen to have on hand.
We can use the Catechism as we read along in various ways, but perhaps the most important is by asking the question: “What parts of the Catechism do I find shown or discussed here?” Again, as with any skill, this takes practice! As we practice, the more comfortable and confident we become in using the skill.
PART ONE: The Passage and the Catechism
A.) Hear and follow along as we read from 2 Kings 5:1-15 (ESV)
B.) What parts of the Catechism are shown or discussed here? Which came to mind as you heard this passage?
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C.) If you don’t have a Small Catechism at hand, you can look in Lutheran Service Book, pp.321-330. Consider the Table of Duties on p.328 and listen again. We often call these various responsibilities and callings in life “vocations.” What different vocations do we find in this passage?
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PART TWO: “All things work together for the good…” (Rom. 8:28)
D.) Consider Naaman’s vocation in 2 Kings 5:1. What was his calling?
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E.) Consider the Girl’s vocation in verses 2-4. How did she come to possess that position?
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F.) Consider the role of the two kings, from Syria and Samaria / Israel. How was their duty done for those in their charge?
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F.) Consider the role of the Elisha, as he fulfills his vocation. What words describe him? What was he charged to do?
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G. Consider our Gospel lesson from, Matthew 8:1-13. How is Elisha a “type” or living picture that points to Jesus?
H.) Read 2 Kings 5:11-12. Left to his own opinions and efforts, without the help for faith in the Word and obedience to it, would Naaman even have been healed? Discuss how each person in their given vocation helped to bring faith and healing to Naaman. (The girl, Naaman’s wife, the kings, Elisha’s messenger, Naaman’s servants?)
PART THREE: “Consider your station in life…”
I.) Look at the Small Catechism, in the Fifth part, about the Office of the Keys and Confession, “How Christians should be taught to confess?” (in LSB on p.326). What is confession? What sins should we confess? Which are these?
J.) Your vocation matters. You embrace the Word for yourself. Your faithful service and speech are pointing people to where Christ gives his gifts!
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Isaiah 50:4 Blues 