Topical Bible: Prophets: Elisha

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Topical Encyclopedia

Elisha, a prominent prophet in the Hebrew Bible, is a central figure in the narrative of Israel's history during the 9th century BC. He is the successor of the prophet Elijah and is known for his powerful miracles and unwavering dedication to God. Elisha's account is primarily found in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings.

Call and Commissioning

Elisha's call to the prophetic ministry is recorded in 1 Kings 19:19-21. Elijah, following God's command, finds Elisha plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Elijah throws his cloak over Elisha, symbolizing the transfer of prophetic authority. Elisha responds by leaving his oxen, slaughtering them, and using the plowing equipment to cook the meat, which he gives to the people. This act signifies his complete commitment to his new calling.

Ministry and Miracles

Elisha's ministry is marked by numerous miracles, demonstrating God's power and presence among His people. One of his first acts as a prophet is the parting of the Jordan River, echoing Elijah's earlier miracle (2 Kings 2:14). This event confirms Elisha's role as Elijah's rightful successor.

Elisha's miracles often address the needs of individuals and communities, reflecting God's compassion and provision. In 2 Kings 4, he multiplies a widow's oil, allowing her to pay her debts and live off the remainder. He also raises the Shunammite woman's son from the dead (2 Kings 4:32-37), showcasing God's power over life and death.

Another significant miracle is the healing of Naaman, a Syrian commander, from leprosy (2 Kings 5:1-14). Elisha instructs Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times, and upon doing so, Naaman is healed. This event highlights God's sovereignty and willingness to extend grace beyond the borders of Israel.

Role in National Affairs

Elisha plays a crucial role in the political and military affairs of Israel. He provides counsel and guidance to the kings of Israel, often intervening in times of crisis. In 2 Kings 6:8-23, Elisha thwarts the plans of the Aramean army by revealing their movements to the king of Israel. His ability to see into the spiritual realm is demonstrated when he prays for his servant's eyes to be opened, revealing the heavenly army protecting them.

Elisha's influence extends to the anointing of Jehu as king of Israel (2 Kings 9:1-13), fulfilling God's judgment against the house of Ahab. This act underscores Elisha's role as a divine instrument in executing God's will.

Legacy and Significance

Elisha's ministry is characterized by a deep commitment to God and His purposes. His life and works serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and power. Elisha's miracles not only meet immediate needs but also point to the greater reality of God's kingdom and His ultimate plan for redemption.

Elisha's legacy is one of faith, obedience, and divine empowerment. His account continues to inspire believers to trust in God's provision and to remain steadfast in their calling, regardless of the challenges they face.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Kings 19:16
And Jehu the son of Nimshi shall you anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah shall you anoint to be prophet in your room.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Elisha's Closing Ministry
... On one occasion "the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now,
the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us. ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 21 elishas closing ministry.htm

The Call of Elisha
... to Elijah, the revelation that he was to be translated had been made known to his
disciples in the schools of the prophets, and in particular to Elisha. ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/chapter 17 the call of.htm

Messianic Predictions in the Prophets.
... written prophecies, either by Elijah, who, at the transfiguration of the Lord, appeared
as the representative of all the Old Testament prophets, or by Elisha. ...
/.../christology of the old testament/messianic predictions in the prophets.htm

The Mantle of Elijah
... Then the followers of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and said, "Do you
know that to-day Jehovah will take away your master from you?" He said, "Yes ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/the mantle of elijah.htm

The Chariot of Fire
... portion' does not mean twice as much as Elijah's portion had been, but twice as
much as other 'sons of the prophets' would receive. Elisha reckoned himself ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/the chariot of fire.htm

Gentleness Succeeding Strength
... But though, no doubt, Elisha would tell what had happened, these 'prophets' only
think that Elijah has been miraculously borne somewhither, as he had been ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture f/gentleness succeeding strength.htm

How Joram and Jehoshaphat Made an Expedition against the Moabites ...
... when one of the servants of Joram said that he had seen there Elisha, the son ... he
should not trouble him, but go to his father's and mother's prophets, for they ...
/.../josephus/the antiquities of the jews/chapter 3 how joram and.htm

Ember Days and Ordination 451. God of the Prophets! Bless the ...
... Denis Wortman, 1884. God of the prophets! Bless the prophets' sons: Elijah's mantle
o'er Elisha cast; Each age its solemn task may claim but once: ...
/.../ember days and ordination 451.htm

"The Spirit and Power of Elijah" --Not the Soul --Were in the ...
... are subject to the prophets," [5839] but the souls of the prophets are not subject
to the prophets, and "the spirit of Elijah rested on Elisha." [5840] But we ...
/.../origen/origens commentary on the gospel of matthew/2 the spirit and power.htm

Prophets and Kingsforeword
... which followed his reign; the mighty and fearless Elijah; Elisha, the prophet ... Jeremiah,
the prophet of sorrow; Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, prophets of the ...
/.../white/the story of prophets and kings/prophets and kingsforeword.htm