Why Did God Kill the 42 Boys?

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Some argue that it was immoral for God to kill 42 boys in 2 Kings 2:23-24. However, the simple truth is that there was absolutely nothing immoral about what God did in 2 Kings 2:23-24.

2 Kings 2:23-24 – Why Did God Kill the 42 Boys?

He went up from there to Bethel, and while he was going up on the way, some small boys came out of the city and jeered at him, saying, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” 24 And he turned around, and when he saw them, he cursed them in the name of the Lord. And two she-bears came out of the woods and tore forty-two of the boys. 2 Kings 2:23-24

The Answer – Why Did God Kill the 42 Boys?

God Has the Right to Punish Sin

There is nothing wrong with what God did in 2 Kings 2:23-24 because God has the right to punish sin, and the boys sinned when they jeered at God’s prophet Elisha.

Some might argue that the punishment was excessive, especially because the people killed were merely boys, but those who argue this do not truly understand the seriousness of sin and the justice of God in punishing sin.

It would be just for God to punish every human immediately with death for sin. The only reason humans live as long as they do is because of God’s mercy, patience, and grace.

More Answers to “Contradictions” in the Bible

To read more answers to alleged and apparent contradictions in the Bible, see “Contradictions” in the Bible Answered.

These books are also excellent resources:

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