Topical Encyclopedia
Intercessory prayer, the act of praying on behalf of others, is a significant theme throughout the Bible. The prophet Elisha, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, exemplifies this practice through his life and ministry. Elisha, the successor of Elijah, is known for his powerful intercessory prayers that brought about divine intervention and miracles, demonstrating God's power and mercy.
Elisha's Ministry and Intercessory RoleElisha's ministry is recorded in the books of 1 and 2 Kings, where he is depicted as a prophet who performed numerous miracles and provided guidance to the people of Israel. His role as an intercessor is evident in several key events where he prayed for others, resulting in God's miraculous intervention.
The Shunammite Woman's SonOne of the most notable instances of Elisha's intercessory prayer is found in
2 Kings 4:18-37. The Shunammite woman, who had shown great hospitality to Elisha, was blessed with a son through the prophet's earlier promise. When the child suddenly died, the woman sought Elisha's help. Elisha's response was one of deep compassion and faith. He prayed fervently to the Lord, and through his intercession, the child was miraculously brought back to life. This event highlights Elisha's role as an intercessor who, through prayer, mediated God's power to restore life.
The Healing of NaamanAnother significant example of Elisha's intercessory prayer is the healing of Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, who suffered from leprosy (
2 Kings 5:1-14). Although Elisha did not directly pray in Naaman's presence, his instructions to Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times were a form of intercession. Elisha's faith and obedience to God's direction led to Naaman's healing, demonstrating the power of intercessory prayer to bring about physical and spiritual transformation.
Provision for the Sons of the ProphetsIn
2 Kings 4:38-44, Elisha interceded for the sons of the prophets during a time of famine. When a pot of stew was poisoned, Elisha prayed and added flour to the pot, rendering it safe to eat. Later, when a man brought twenty loaves of barley bread, Elisha prayed, and the food was miraculously multiplied to feed a hundred men. These acts of intercession reveal Elisha's reliance on God's provision and his role in mediating divine sustenance.
Protection of IsraelElisha's intercessory prayers also extended to the protection of Israel. In
2 Kings 6:8-23, when the king of Aram waged war against Israel, Elisha repeatedly warned the king of Israel about the enemy's plans. When the Aramean army surrounded Elisha in Dothan, his servant was fearful, but Elisha prayed for his eyes to be opened. The servant then saw the mountain full of horses and chariots of fire, signifying God's protection. Elisha further prayed for the Arameans to be struck with blindness, leading to their capture and eventual release. Through these prayers, Elisha demonstrated the power of intercession in securing divine protection and guidance.
ConclusionElisha's life and ministry provide profound examples of intercessory prayer, showcasing the prophet's deep faith and reliance on God's power. His prayers not only brought about miraculous events but also revealed God's compassion and sovereignty. Elisha's intercessory role serves as an enduring testament to the importance and efficacy of praying on behalf of others, encouraging believers to seek God's intervention in the lives of those around them.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 4:33He went in therefore, and shut the door on them two, and prayed to the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Index of Subjects. Abel, 124, 136, 193, 414.
... Elijah, [476]16, [477]246. Elisha, [478]346, [479]421. ... Intercessory prayers,
[874]429. ... Lord's Prayer, the, [1006]428; and Pelagianism, [1007]527 seq. ...
/.../augustine/anti-pelagian writings/index of subjects abel 124.htm
Resources
What is fervent prayer (James 5:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is listening prayer? Are listening prayers biblical? | GotQuestions.orgIs there evidence that God answers prayer? | GotQuestions.orgPrayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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