Bears in Bethel

Elisha is arriving in Bethel after God had elevated him as head of His prophets in Israel. Elisha's first public act is to bring a blessing to the city of Jericho. He has healed the waters of that once cursed city and restoring a fruitful spring for the people and their crops. Now in Bethel he is greeted by a band of mocking, deriding young children. Following him along the way with a chant which includes an unflattering reference to Elisha's premature baldness. Elisha responds with a curse in the name of the Lord. The curse is answered immediately by two female bears who come out of the woods to maul 42 of these young lads. To understand this horrific event you must appreciate the moment in time that it happened; what preceded it and what will fall in after. You must also appreciate the overall ministry and message of Elisha to Israel. God is gracious but His grace is not weakness, nor a failure to judge.