As they walked on conversing, a flaming chariot and flaming horses came between them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 2 Kings 2:11 NABRE
We read of the passing of the prophetic mantle from Elijah to Elisha his hand selected successor. Elijah’s time and work for God conclude and Elisha is the new prophet for God. This passage deals with one of the most mysterious and popular episodes in the Hebrew Scriptures, Elijah being taken up to heaven by a whirlwind, God showing a special destiny reserved for Elijah because of his fidelity. Elisha is present and asks for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit, demonstrating divine gifts can be passed on to those who are ready to receive them. We read of a chariot and horses which represent a separation of the two prophets, God bringing Elijah to heaven, the chariots of fire symbolizing God’s presence. The fact Elijah does not die demonstrates he will be assigned a role in the future, at the messianic restoration of the twelve tribes (Sirach 48:10.) Additionally, Elijah is found in the Gospel’s identified with John the Baptist, Jesus’ precursor, in the sense John the Baptist is inspired by the spirit of Elijah. We also see Elijah is like Moses in that he separates the water of the Jordan so he and Elisha can cross. This connection with Moses allows us to see the Law and the Prophets when they both appear on Mount Tabor during the transfiguration of Jesus. This image becomes a sign that the Law and the Prophets are fulfilled in Christ.
Elijah is one of the great prophets, and the fact he is saved to be an instrument in future prophecy for God shows his special place. Doing God’s will in all circumstances allows God to depend on us now and into the future.
Do you constantly seek the will of God? Are you willing to do God’s work even when it is not popular?
Elijah is one of the great prophets, and the fact he is saved to be an instrument in future prophecy for God shows his special place. Doing God’s will in all circumstances allows God to depend on us now and into the future. Share on X#bible #godisgreat #jesus #christianity #dailybibleverse @youversion #BeAnEncourager #Elijah #prophets #Kings #everybodyalways#god#jesuschrist#jesussaves#godisgood#dailydevotion#biblestudy#scripture#bibleverse#verseoftheday#cross#last#gospels#loveeachother#godisgreat#thisVineyard#youversion#everythingalways