Introduction

The concept of liberality in the Bible often encompasses generosity, open-handedness, and a willingness to give freely. In the relationship between Elisha and Elijah, we observe a profound example of liberality, not in material wealth, but in the spiritual inheritance and dedication to God's calling. Elisha's actions toward Elijah reflect a deep commitment and readiness to serve, which can be seen as a form of liberality in devotion and purpose.

Biblical Context

The narrative of Elisha and Elijah is primarily found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. Elijah, a prophet of God, is nearing the end of his earthly ministry, and God instructs him to anoint Elisha as his successor. This transition is marked by significant acts of liberality, both in the giving and receiving of spiritual authority and responsibility.

Elisha's Call and Response

In 1 Kings 19:19-21, Elijah finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Elijah approaches him and throws his cloak over Elisha, symbolizing the transfer of prophetic authority. Elisha's response is immediate and generous. He leaves his oxen, runs after Elijah, and requests permission to bid farewell to his parents. Elisha's liberality is evident in his willingness to leave his livelihood and family to follow God's call through Elijah.

The Berean Standard Bible captures this moment: "So Elisha left the oxen, ran after Elijah, and said, 'Please let me kiss my father and mother goodbye, and then I will follow you.' 'Go on back,' Elijah replied, 'for what have I done to you?'" (1 Kings 19:20). Elisha's actions demonstrate a liberality of spirit, as he sacrifices his personal and economic security to embrace a divine mission.

The Sacrifice of Oxen

Elisha's liberality is further exemplified in his actions following his call. He takes the yoke of oxen, slaughters them, and uses the equipment to cook the meat, which he then gives to the people to eat. This act, described in 1 Kings 19:21, signifies Elisha's complete break from his past life and his generous offering to the community. It is a symbolic gesture of his total commitment to the prophetic ministry and his willingness to serve others.

Elisha's Service to Elijah

Throughout their time together, Elisha serves Elijah with dedication and loyalty. In 2 Kings 2, as Elijah's departure approaches, Elisha refuses to leave his mentor's side, despite Elijah's repeated encouragement to stay behind. Elisha's persistence is a testament to his liberality in service and devotion. He desires a double portion of Elijah's spirit, not for personal gain, but to continue the work of God with the same fervor and effectiveness.

The BSB records Elisha's request: "Please let me inherit a double portion of your spirit," (2 Kings 2:9). This request reflects Elisha's understanding of the immense responsibility he is about to undertake and his desire to be fully equipped for the task.

Conclusion

The relationship between Elisha and Elijah provides a rich example of liberality in the context of spiritual calling and mentorship. Elisha's willingness to leave everything behind, his generous acts of sacrifice, and his unwavering commitment to Elijah illustrate a profound liberality of spirit. Through these actions, Elisha embodies the principles of generosity, dedication, and readiness to serve God's purposes, setting a powerful example for believers.1 Kings 19:21
And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave to the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered to him.
Nave's Topical Index

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men." [2809 ... There lie the prophets
Elisha and Obadiah and John the Baptist ... Her liberality alone knew no bounds ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm

General Conference of 1824
... Merritt, Enoch Mudge, George Pickering, Elisha Streeter, Eleazar ... and that the zeal
and liberality with which ... to do what was in their power toward supplying the ...
/.../chapter 7 general conference of.htm

Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility
... preceded by mourning and prayer, [306]84; toward heathen impossible ... 371]387; to provoke
them so to liberality, [372]387 ... 18; type of it in time of Elisha, [424]ib ...
/.../abraham his trial in egypt.htm

General Index.
... Elisha, protected by angels, 208, 512. ... Israelites, long-suffering of God toward,
19, 28. ... Liberality in religious belief, sometimes danger in, 520-522. ...
/.../white/the great controversy between christ and satan /general index.htm

Book ii. Jerome Answers the Second, Third, and Fourth Propositions ...
... any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve in his craftiness, your minds should be
corrupted from the simplicity that is toward Christ." And ... 4792] Elijah after the ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/book ii jerome answers the.htm

From the Close of the General Conference of 1820 to the Beginning ...
... calling forth a spirit of liberality highly creditable ... Notwithstanding this favorable
regard toward the mission by ... had just been called, like Elisha, from the ...
/.../chapter 6 from the close.htm

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