May 10, 2018
In Israel, the firstborn son inherited a double share of his father’s possessions and the right of succession.
Elisha’s request was not merely to succeed Elijah in his prophetic ministry (since the Lord had already revealed his succession in 1 Kings 19:16-21), nor was it Elisha’s desire for ministry superior to Elijah’s (although Elisha did in fact do twice as many recorded miracles as Elijah).
Elisha was asking for spiritual power beyond his own capabilities to meet the responsibilities of his position as Elijah’s successor. He desired that Elijah’s mighty power might continue to live through him.
