*2 Kings 2:1-12
Elijah is taken up to heaven in a fiery chariot, leaving his cloak to Elisha who becomes his successor as prophet.
- Elijah and Elisha Journey Together:
- Elijah informs Elisha that the Lord will take him away from him today.
- They journey from Gilgal to Bethel, with a company of prophets observing them.
- Elijah’s Encouragement and Elisha’s Loyalty:
- Elijah encourages Elisha to stay behind as the Lord is sending him to Jericho, but Elisha refuses, affirming his unwavering commitment to Elijah.
- They journey from Bethel to Jericho.
- Elijah’s Departure Draws Near:
- Elijah offers Elisha the opportunity to stay in Jericho, but Elisha insists on accompanying him.
- They journey from Jericho to the Jordan River.
- Elijah’s Miraculous Crossing of the Jordan:
- Elijah rolls up his cloak, strikes the water, and miraculously divides it, allowing them to cross the Jordan River on dry ground.
- This mirrors the crossing of the Red Sea during Moses’ time.
- Elijah’s Ascension into Heaven:
- As they walk and talk, suddenly a chariot of fire appears with horses of fire, separating Elijah and Elisha.
- Elijah is taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, witnessed by Elisha.
In 2 Kings 2:1-12, Elisha stays close to Elijah, refusing to leave his side because he wants to receive God’s blessing and continue Elijah’s work. His determination and faithfulness show us the importance of staying committed to what is right, even when challenges come. In our lives, we should seek out wise mentors, stay faithful to our purpose, and trust that God will equip us for the journey ahead. When we remain persistent and trust in God’s plan, He provides what we need to move forward.
2 Kings 2:1-12 (WEB)
2:1 When the LORD was about to take Elijah up by a whirlwind into heaven, Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. 2 Elijah said to Elisha, “Please wait here, for the LORD has sent me as far as Bethel.”Elisha said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you.” So they went down to Bethel.3 The sons of the prophets who were at Bethel came out to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?”He said, “Yes, I know it. Hold your peace.”4 Elijah said to him, “Elisha, please wait here, for the LORD has sent me to Jericho.”He said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you.” So they came to Jericho.5 The sons of the prophets who were at Jericho came near to Elisha, and said to him, “Do you know that the LORD will take away your master from over you today?”He answered, “Yes, I know it. Hold your peace.”6 Elijah said to him, “Please wait here, for the LORD has sent me to the Jordan.”He said, “As the LORD lives, and as your soul lives, I will not leave you.” Then they both went on. 7 Fifty men of the sons of the prophets went and stood opposite them at a distance; and they both stood by the Jordan. 8 Elijah took his mantle, and rolled it up, and struck the waters; and they were divided here and there, so that they both went over on dry ground. 9 When they had gone over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.”Elisha said, “Please let a double portion of your spirit be on me.”10 He said, “You have asked a hard thing. If you see me when I am taken from you, it will be so for you; but if not, it will not be so.”11 As they continued on and talked, behold, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated them; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. 12 Elisha saw it, and he cried, “My father, my father, the chariots of Israel and its horsemen!”He saw him no more. Then he took hold of his own clothes and tore them in two pieces.