Passing the Mantle
Northwest Bible Church – October 15, 2006 – 2 Kings Series – Worship Service – Alan Conner
2 Kings 2:1-15
The Passing of the Mantel
INTRO
- ELISHA’S COMMITMENT TO FOLLOW ELIJAH TO THE END (vv. 1-12).
1) Elisha’s calling.
2) Elisha’s perseverance.
- a) Elijah’s words for him to remain and not follow (vv. 2, 4, 6).
- b) The sons of the prophets words about Elijah being taken away (vv. 3, 5).
Sometimes the blessing comes after a persistent pursuit.
- ELISHA’S DESIRE FOR A BLESSING (vv. 9-10).
1) Elijah’s request (v. 9a).
2) Elisha’s response (v. 9b). “Please let a double portion of your spirit be upon me” .
- ELIJAH AND THE CHARIOT OF FIRE (v. 11).
1) Elijah ascends by the whirlwind (vv. 1, 11).
2) What were the chariot and horses of fire?
3) What were their function?
First –
Second –
A big question is: Did Elijah die?
- ELISHA’S PROPHETIC MINISTRY BEGINS (vv. 13-14).
The dividing of the Jordan River. Elisha’s words, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” is not a word of doubt but a word of readiness.
LESSONS:
- KNOW THE GOD OF ELIJAH.
- THE IMPORTANCE OF SPIRITUAL HEROES.
TAKE UP A MANTEL.
LEAVE A MANTEL BEHIND.