Elisha, the son of Shaphat, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his role as the successor to the prophet Elijah. His confirmation as Elijah's successor is a significant event that underscores the continuity of prophetic ministry in Israel and highlights the divine selection and preparation of leaders.

Divine Selection and Calling

The calling of Elisha is first mentioned in 1 Kings 19:16, where God instructs Elijah to anoint Elisha as a prophet in his place. This divine directive underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing His servants. Elijah finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, a detail that suggests Elisha's wealth and industrious nature. In 1 Kings 19:19 , it is recorded, "So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah passed by him and threw his cloak around him."

The act of Elijah casting his cloak upon Elisha is symbolic, representing the transfer of prophetic authority and the mantle of leadership. This gesture signifies Elisha's calling to follow Elijah and eventually take up his prophetic office.

Immediate Response and Commitment

Elisha's response to Elijah's call is immediate and decisive. He requests permission to bid farewell to his parents, which Elijah grants. Elisha then demonstrates his commitment by slaughtering his oxen and using the equipment to cook the meat, which he gives to the people to eat. This act, as described in 1 Kings 19:21 , "So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant," signifies Elisha's total dedication to his new calling, leaving behind his former life and livelihood.

Training and Preparation

Elisha's journey with Elijah is marked by a period of training and preparation. As Elijah's attendant, Elisha learns from the seasoned prophet, witnessing his ministry and miracles. This period is crucial for Elisha's development, as it prepares him for the responsibilities he will assume.

Confirmation through Miraculous Signs

The confirmation of Elisha as Elijah's successor is dramatically affirmed in 2 Kings 2. As Elijah's time on earth draws to a close, he and Elisha travel from Gilgal to Bethel, Jericho, and finally to the Jordan River. At each location, the sons of the prophets acknowledge that Elijah will soon be taken from them, and Elisha remains steadfast in his commitment to stay with Elijah.

At the Jordan River, Elijah performs a miracle by striking the water with his cloak, causing it to part so that both prophets can cross on dry ground. After crossing, Elijah asks Elisha what he can do for him before he is taken away. Elisha requests a "double portion" of Elijah's spirit, a request that signifies his desire for the spiritual strength and authority needed to fulfill his calling.

Elijah responds that this is a difficult request but assures Elisha that if he sees him taken up, it will be granted. As they continue walking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire appear, and Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha witnesses this event, confirming his request.

Assumption of Prophetic Role

After Elijah's ascension, Elisha picks up Elijah's cloak, which had fallen, and returns to the Jordan River. In 2 Kings 2:14 , Elisha strikes the water with the cloak and cries out, "Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" The waters part, and Elisha crosses back over, demonstrating that the spirit of Elijah now rests upon him.

The sons of the prophets at Jericho recognize Elisha's new role, acknowledging that "The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha" (2 Kings 2:15). This acknowledgment by the prophetic community serves as a public confirmation of Elisha's position as Elijah's successor.

Elisha's confirmation as Elijah's successor marks the continuation of God's prophetic work in Israel. His ministry, characterized by numerous miracles and acts of divine intervention, serves as a testament to God's ongoing presence and power among His people.