When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?” “Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit,” Elisha replied. – 2 Kings 2:9
Elijah was soon to be carried into heaven in a whirlwind. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
This chapter opens with the phrase, ‘when the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven’ (v1). And so, it was apparently common knowledge, at least among some of the prophets.
Elijah tests Elisha’s devotion.
Elijah tells Elisha to return, while he goes on ahead. Elisha refuses. Elisha knew there was an anticipated unusual departure and wanted to stay as close to his mentor as possible, in these last moments of his life on earth. Elijah tests Elisha repeatedly, but Elisha tenaciously refused to leave his mentor.
When they reach the banks of the Jordon, Elijah asks Elisha what he could do for him before he is taken away. Elisha asks for a double portion of the mighty spirit of Elijah.
The idea of a double portion was not to ask for twice as much as Elijah had, but to ask for the portion that went to the firstborn son (Deuteronomy 21:17). Elisha asked for the right to be regarded as the successor of Elijah, as his firstborn son regarding ministry.
Elijah tells Elisha that if he sees him being taken up, then his request would be fulfilled. Elisha saw (v10). And when Elijah was taken up, he picked up the mantle that had fallen and put it on.
If God were to test your devotion to Him today, would He find you as tenacious as Elisha?
Lord, help me ever be found faithful in my devotion to you, I pray.
Extended Reading — 2 Kings 1-4
Read through the Bible in One Year: CLICK HERE
Links to Related Resources
Bible Gateway | Enduring Word | Bible Study Fellowship | FRMS YouVersion Plans
0 Comments