2 Kings 2:14

Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the waters. "Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" he asked. And when he had struck the waters, they parted to the right and to the left, and Elisha crossed over.

Study Bible

He took the cloak
The cloak, or mantle, in Hebrew is "adderet," which signifies a garment of splendor or glory. This cloak originally belonged to Elijah, symbolizing his prophetic authority and the power of God resting upon him. In the ancient Near Eastern context, garments often represented one's identity and status. Elisha taking up Elijah's cloak signifies the transfer of prophetic authority and the continuation of Elijah's ministry through Elisha. This act is a powerful reminder of the continuity of God's work through His chosen servants.

that had fallen from Elijah
The phrase emphasizes the divine orchestration in the transfer of prophetic power. Elijah's cloak falling to the ground symbolizes the end of his earthly ministry and the beginning of Elisha's. In a broader biblical context, this moment echoes the passing of leadership seen in other scriptural narratives, such as Moses to Joshua. It underscores the idea that while God's servants may change, His mission and presence remain constant.

and struck the waters with it
Striking the waters with the cloak is an act of faith and a test of Elisha's newly received authority. In the Hebrew tradition, water often symbolizes chaos and the unknown. By striking the waters, Elisha demonstrates his trust in God's power to bring order and direction. This act parallels Moses parting the Red Sea and Joshua crossing the Jordan, reinforcing the theme of God's miraculous provision and guidance for His people.

“Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?”
This rhetorical question reflects Elisha's desire for confirmation of God's presence and power with him, as it was with Elijah. The invocation of "the LORD, the God of Elijah" highlights the personal and covenantal relationship between God and His prophets. It serves as a reminder that the true source of power and authority is not in the cloak itself, but in the God who empowers His servants.

And when he had struck the waters, they parted to the right and to the left
The parting of the waters is a miraculous sign confirming Elisha's role as Elijah's successor. This event mirrors the parting of the Red Sea and the Jordan River, reinforcing the continuity of God's miraculous interventions in the history of Israel. It serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and His willingness to empower those who are called according to His purpose.

and Elisha crossed over
Elisha's crossing over signifies a new chapter in his life and ministry. It marks the beginning of his journey as a prophet in his own right, empowered by the same God who worked through Elijah. This crossing is not just a physical transition but a spiritual one, symbolizing Elisha's acceptance of his calling and the responsibilities that come with it. It is an inspirational reminder that God equips and leads His servants into new territories of faith and service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet and the successor of Elijah, who performed many miracles and was a significant figure in the history of Israel.

2. Elijah
A major prophet in Israel who was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, leaving his cloak behind for Elisha.

3. The Jordan River
A significant river in the biblical account, often symbolizing a place of transition and divine intervention.

4. The Cloak of Elijah
A symbol of prophetic authority and the transfer of Elijah's prophetic spirit to Elisha.

5. The Parting of the Waters
A miraculous event demonstrating God's power and the continuation of Elijah's ministry through Elisha.

Teaching Points

The Continuation of God's Work
God's work does not end with one person; it continues through those He calls and equips. Elisha's ministry is a continuation of Elijah's, showing that God's purposes transcend individual lifetimes.

The Importance of Spiritual Inheritance
Elisha's receipt of Elijah's cloak symbolizes the passing of spiritual authority and responsibility. We are called to pass on our faith and spiritual gifts to the next generation.

Faith in Action
Elisha's act of striking the waters demonstrates faith in God's power and presence. We are encouraged to act in faith, trusting that God will work through us.

God's Presence in Transition
The parting of the Jordan River signifies God's presence during times of change and transition. We can trust God to guide us through life's transitions.

Seeking God's Presence
Elisha's question, "Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" reflects a desire for God's presence and power. We should continually seek God's presence in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elisha's use of Elijah's cloak demonstrate the concept of spiritual inheritance, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the parting of the Jordan River parallel other biblical events, and what does this teach us about God's power and faithfulness?

3. How can we demonstrate faith in action in our daily lives, similar to Elisha's act of striking the waters?

4. What are some transitions in your life where you have seen or need to see God's presence and guidance?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper desire for God's presence, as Elisha did when he asked, "Where now is the LORD, the God of Elijah?"

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea by Moses, which parallels the parting of the Jordan River by Elisha, both demonstrating God's power and presence.

Joshua 3
The crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership, symbolizing a new beginning and God's faithfulness.

1 Kings 19
The calling of Elisha by Elijah, where Elijah places his cloak on Elisha, foreshadowing the transfer of prophetic authority.

Acts 1
The ascension of Jesus and the empowerment of the apostles by the Holy Spirit, similar to the transfer of Elijah's spirit to Elisha.