Elisha, the prophet, is a prominent figure in the Old Testament, known for his role as the successor to Elijah. His life and ministry are recorded primarily in the books of 1 and 2 Kings. Elisha's name means "God is salvation," and his life was marked by numerous miracles and acts of divine intervention, demonstrating God's power and presence among His people.

Early Life and Call

Elisha was the son of Shaphat from Abel-meholah, a region in the northern kingdom of Israel. He was called to the prophetic ministry while plowing in the fields, a testament to his humble beginnings. Elijah, under God's direction, cast his cloak upon Elisha, symbolizing the transfer of prophetic authority (1 Kings 19:19-21). Elisha left his family and livelihood to follow Elijah, becoming his attendant and disciple.

Ministry and Miracles

Elisha's ministry began in earnest after Elijah was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind (2 Kings 2:11). Elisha inherited a double portion of Elijah's spirit, as he had requested, and immediately began to perform miracles that affirmed his role as God's prophet. These miracles included purifying the waters of Jericho (2 Kings 2:19-22), multiplying a widow's oil (2 Kings 4:1-7), raising the Shunammite woman's son from the dead (2 Kings 4:32-37), and healing Naaman the Syrian of leprosy (2 Kings 5:1-14).

Sought by Jehoram

Elisha's relationship with the kings of Israel was complex, particularly with Jehoram, the son of Ahab and Jezebel. Jehoram, who reigned over Israel, was not wholly devoted to the Lord, yet he recognized Elisha's prophetic authority. During a military campaign against Moab, Jehoram sought Elisha's counsel when the allied armies of Israel, Judah, and Edom found themselves without water in the desert (2 Kings 3:9-12).

Elisha initially rebuked Jehoram, saying, "What have I to do with you? Go to the prophets of your father and mother!" (2 Kings 3:13). However, out of respect for Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, Elisha agreed to seek the Lord's guidance. Through Elisha, God provided a miraculous supply of water and assured victory over Moab (2 Kings 3:14-20).

Legacy

Elisha's life and ministry left a profound impact on the spiritual landscape of Israel. His unwavering faith and obedience to God served as a beacon of hope and a call to repentance for the nation. Elisha's miracles and prophecies demonstrated God's sovereignty and compassion, reinforcing the message that God is actively involved in the lives of His people. His interactions with Jehoram highlight the tension between the prophetic voice and the political powers of the time, underscoring the importance of seeking divine wisdom and guidance.2 Kings 6:31-33
Then he said, God do so and more also to me, if the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat shall stand on him this day.
Nave's Topical Index

The Fall of the House of Ahab
... He had been a very present help to all who sought Him in ... What if life should be
prolonged? ... was visiting his uncle at Jezreel, the prophet Elisha was divinely ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 16 the fall of.htm

The Minstrel
... speak in the name of the Lord, but sought for a ... read quietly will often operate as
the harper acted upon Elisha. ... the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 27 1881/the minstrel.htm

Tit. 2:06 Thoughts for Young Men
... When Hazael heard from Elisha of the horrible acts that he would one ... Prayer is the
life-breath of a man's soul. ... the hour of trial, if it has not been sought for ...
/.../chapter xix tit 2 6 thoughts.htm

The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria
... After endless loss of life and property, they had nearly always issued in the ... Schrader;
Jelattre has pointed out that it ought to be sought elsewhere, near the ...
/.../chapter ithe assyrian revival and.htm

The Prophet Joel.
... the historical books make mention, especially Elijah and Elisha. ... valley of Jehoshaphat
can be sought for only ... amidst the greatest dangers to life, during the ...
/.../hengstenberg/christology of the old testament/the prophet joel.htm

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... the schools of the prophets, thus sought to bring ... every conjuncture of civil and
religious life in Judah ... long before this, we find Elisha secretly conspiring ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm

Why did Elisha request a double portion of Elijah's spirit? | GotQuestions.org

What is the story of Elijah and Elisha? | GotQuestions.org

Why did the Prophet Elisha curse the “youths” for making fun of his baldness (2 Kings 2:23-24)? | GotQuestions.org

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