Summary of 2 Kings 7-9: In 2 Kings 7-9, the story of the siege of Samaria continues. Elisha prophesies that food will become plentiful in the city, and it happens as he predicted. Meanwhile, the Arameans hear the sound of chariots and horses and assume that the king of Israel has hired foreign armies to defeat them, and they flee. When the Israelites go out to the Aramean camp, they find it empty and plunder it. In the following chapter, Jehu is anointed as the king of Israel, and he proceeds to kill both Joram, king of Israel, and Ahaziah, king of Judah. He also kills Jezebel, the queen mother, and many of the followers of the Baal god.

Key People/Places/Events: -Elisha -Jehu -Joram, King of Israel -Ahaziah, King of Judah -Jezebel -The city of Samaria -The Arameans -The Baal god

Questions to Consider: -What role does prophecy play in the events of 2 Kings 7-9? -What motivates Jehu to kill so many people? -What is the significance of the city of Samaria in this story? -How does the defeat of the Arameans reflect the power of God? -What is the importance of the anointing of Jehu as king?

Summary of John 1:1-28: John 1:1-28 introduces the concept of the Word, identifying it as God and stating that it existed before the creation of the world. John the Baptist is introduced, and he testifies that he is not the Messiah but has come to prepare the way for him. John states that Jesus is the Word, and he is the one who came to the world and was not recognized by his own people.

Key People/Places/Events: -The Word -John the Baptist -Jesus -The world

Questions to Consider: -What is the meaning of the term "Word" in this passage? -What is the significance of John the Baptist's testimony? -Why do Jesus' own people not recognize him? -What is the importance of Jesus being described as the Word? -How does this passage connect to the larger themes of the Gospel of John?