Published by Vince Baker Ministries ·
“So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him.”
1 Kings 19:19 · KJV
Where was Elisha when the call came?
Elisha was working with oxen. He left them, asked to say goodbye to his family, and used the animals and equipment to provide a meal. Then he followed and served Elijah. The first mantle scene gives weight to the years before the Jordan. A visible call was followed by the practical work of serving.
How is this different from picking up the mantle later?
In 1 Kings 19 Elijah acts first by casting the mantle over Elisha. In 2 Kings 2 Elisha picks it up after Elijah is taken and calls on the Lord God of Elijah. The prophetic company sees what happens at the river and recognizes Elijah’s spirit resting on Elisha. The two scenes together tell a story of calling, apprenticeship, and God’s continuing work.
Take the next responsibility seriously
Read both mantle scenes. Ask what ordinary act of service could prepare you for a responsibility you believe God is leading you toward.
Read the Scripture passages
- 1 Kings 19:19 · KJV
- 1 Kings 19:9-21 · KJV
- 2 Kings 2:6-15 · KJV
- Luke 9:57-62 · KJV
- Luke 1:16-17 · KJV
