Useful Bible Studies > 2 Kings Commentary > chapter 2
In 1 Kings 19:16, God told Elijah that Elisha would become the principal prophet (holy man) in Israel after him. At that time, Elisha was simply a farm worker. However, when Elijah found him, Elisha decided at once to become Elijah’s disciple (1 Kings 19:19-21) – in other words, his student and servant (3:11).
From that time on, Elisha remained constantly with Elijah. The two men prayed and studied God’s law together. Sometimes Elijah travelled to visit the groups of people who were loyal to the true God. These groups are sometimes called the ‘sons of the prophets’ in the Bible. On these visits, Elisha always came with Elijah. However, Elijah was careful never to force Elisha to do these things. It was always Elisha’s decision to remain with Elijah. Elisha saw that he still had more to learn and to receive from Elijah. So, Elisha needed to remain with Elijah so that he (Elisha) would be able to do his own work as a prophet.
The time was now near when God would separate Elijah from Elisha. However, Elisha still had not received the power from God that he needed to do his work as a prophet. Already, Elijah had taught Elisha everything that he could teach him. Elijah seemed to know that he would soon leave Elisha. So, he urged Elisha not to join him on his last, difficult journey.
However, Elisha knew that God wanted him still to remain with Elijah. Elisha considered that to be his duty as Elijah’s disciple. So he would not separate himself from Elijah until God brought it about. Elisha made a serious promise to God that he would remain with Elijah.
Next part: Elisha and the 'sons of the prophets' (2 Kings 2:3-6)
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