Introduction
The Old Testament records the lives of many prophets who were called of God to speak His word, perform mighty works, and guide the people of Israel. Among them, Elisha stands as a figure of faith, power, and service. His ministry is primarily recorded in the books of 1 Kings and 2 Kings. As the chosen successor of Elijah, Elisha’s life was marked not only by continuity of prophetic power but also by a double portion of his master’s spirit, as he himself requested (2 Kings 2:9, KJV). This paper will examine Elisha’s calling, his miracles, his compassion for the people, and his role in revealing the power and mercy of the God of Israel.
Elisha’s Call and Commission
Elisha was the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah (1 Kings 19:16). His call came when Elijah cast his mantle upon him while he was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen (1 Kings 19:19). In this symbolic act, Elisha was chosen by God to continue the prophetic office. Elisha responded immediately, leaving his work and family, sacrificing his oxen, and following Elijah (1 Kings 19:20–21). His response reflects a wholehearted commitment, similar to the call of Christ to His disciples in the New Testament.
When Elijah was taken up into heaven by a whirlwind, Elisha refused to leave his side. He requested a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings 2:9), which the Lord granted. As a visible sign, the mantle of Elijah fell upon him, and Elisha smote the waters of Jordan so that they parted before him, confirming God’s presence in his ministry (2 Kings 2:14–15).
Miracles of Elisha
Elisha’s ministry was marked by numerous miracles, displaying God’s power and care for His people. These miracles often reflected not only divine might but also mercy and provision.
- Provision and Healing
- He purified the waters of Jericho with salt, healing them permanently (2 Kings 2:19–22).
- He multiplied a widow’s oil so that she and her sons might live (2 Kings 4:1–7).
- He healed the deadly pottage with meal (2 Kings 4:38–41).
- He fed one hundred men with twenty loaves of barley, and there was food left over (2 Kings 4:42–44).
- Resurrection Power
Elisha raised the son of the Shunammite woman, whom he had earlier promised she would bear (2 Kings 4:32–37). This miracle revealed God’s power over life and death and foreshadowed Christ’s own miracles of raising the dead. - Healing of Naaman
One of the most well-known accounts of Elisha is the healing of Naaman, the Syrian leper. Through simple instruction—washing seven times in the Jordan—Naaman was cleansed, showing that obedience to God’s word brings healing and salvation (2 Kings 5:10–14). - Protection and Deliverance
Elisha revealed the secret plans of the king of Syria, protecting Israel (2 Kings 6:8–12). When surrounded by the Syrian army, he prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened, and he saw the mountain full of horses and chariots of fire round about them (2 Kings 6:17). This demonstrated that God’s unseen protection is always greater than the visible threats of men.
Elisha’s Compassionate Ministry
Unlike some prophets who were known chiefly for their rebukes, Elisha’s ministry is often remembered for acts of mercy and provision. He dwelt among the people, received hospitality from the Shunammite woman, and cared for the sons of the prophets. His miracles often met daily needs—water, food, and healing—demonstrating that God cares for both the great and small concerns of His people.
Elisha’s Death and Legacy
Even in death, Elisha’s ministry bore witness to God’s power. When a dead man was hastily buried and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived and stood up on his feet (2 Kings 13:21). This final miracle affirmed that the power of God working through Elisha extended beyond his life.
Elisha’s ministry left a lasting impact upon Israel, continuing the prophetic tradition of Elijah but with an emphasis on mercy, provision, and the intimate care of God. He pointed the people to trust in the LORD, not in their idols or foreign powers.
Conclusion
Elisha’s life and ministry, as recorded in the KJV, reveal the power, mercy, and sovereignty of God. Called from the plow to the prophetic office, Elisha faithfully carried out his mission with boldness and compassion. Through miracles of provision, healing, resurrection, and deliverance, he demonstrated that the God of Israel is both mighty and merciful. His legacy testifies that God raises up servants in every generation to guide, protect, and remind His people of His abiding presence.