The Call of Elisha
I Kings 19:18-21 "Bible Passage"
I. It was an unexpected/suprising call.
A. Elijah didn’t find him in the schools of the prophets, but in the
field. Not reading, nor praying, nor sacrificing, but ploughing.
B. Idleness is no man’s honor, nor is husbandry any man’s disgrace.
C. An honest calling in th world does not at all put us out of the
way of our heavenly calling.
II. It was a Powerful calling.
A. All Elijah did was throw his mantle on him in a token of
friendship.
B. He put some of his honor on him like Moses did Joshua.
Numbers 27:20 - And thou shalt put some of thine honour upon him,
that all the congregation of the children of Israel may be
obedient.
C. And immediately he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and told him
that he would follow him.
D. Something touched his heart and inclined him by a secret power.
E. It is in a day of power that Christ’s subjects are made willing.
Psalm 110:3 - Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power
in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning thou hast
the dew of thy youth.
F. Elisha begged alittle time, not to ask leave, but only to take
leave of his parents. He did it to give respect and duty he owed
his father and mother.
III. It was a Pleasant and Acceptable call.
A. He made a feast of his oxen.
B. He used his plow to start the fire.
IV. It was an Effectual call.
A. Elijah didn’t wait for him, lest he should seem to be compelling
him, but left him to make his own choice.
B. Not only did he rise and follow him, but ministered to him and
served him.
2 Kings 3:11, tells us that Elisha poured water on the hands of
Elijah.
Conclusion: Those that would be fit to teach must have the time to learn; and those that hope to rise and rule must be first be willing to stoop and serve.
