2 Kings 2:9 And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said to Elisha, Ask what I shall do for you, before I be taken away from you… I. ITS MEANING. 1. "A double portion."(1) Not "twice as much as thou." That might have been the prayer not of ambition to excel Elijah, but of humility. In myself so inferior that I need double portion to succeed thee. (2) Better: the portion of first-born (Deuteronomy 21:17); twice as much as any other son of the prophets. All claim a portion. My work and responsibility greatest; to be head of the family in thy place. Give me right of the first-born-a double portion. 2. "Thy spirit." God's Spirit: who came upon Samson, Saul, David, Elijah himself (ver. 16). But still Elijah's spirit (ver. 15). In three senses his: — (1) His own. Not separable, as property, friends, means of grace, etc. In him (John 4:14). Not hand without upholding, but cordial within, strengthening. (2) His characteristically. One Spirit, but manifold gifts. .Natural character remains, etc. (3) His in its influence. Elisha's request granted. Character moulded by Elijah's spirit, yet not obliterated. Still Elisha, not Elijah. Marked contrast between them. Elijah type of John Baptist, Elisha of Christ. II. ITS APPLICATION. 1. To intercourse of friends. Elijah friend of Elisha. 2. To official relations. Elisha pupil of Elijah. Conclusion. Our intercourse with friends, our relations as teachers, parents, ministers, etc., are they such as, when the parting comes, to warrant the request, "I pray thee," etc.? (Archdeacon Perowne.) Parallel Verses KJV: And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. |
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