2 Kings 2:1-19

2 Kings 2:1

The account of Elijah's translation suggests:

I. That the life of man is absolutely at the disposal of the Lord. (1) God knows when our work is done. (2) We are taken from a lower to a higher service. (3) We are not absorbed; we are elevated, dignified, and ennobled. (4) We do not sleep in an intermediate state; we go into another world.

II. That the way of man's going from the world is determined by a higher wisdom than his own. The Lord takes life up into heaven: (1) by the chariot of youth; (2) by old age; (3) by long affliction; (4) by sudden calls.

III. That the close of a man's work is often known to himself and to others apart from a distinct expression of the fact in words. Elijah and Elisha did not mention the subject. They both knewwhat was going to happen.

IV. That the cessation of our individual work should not put an end to our interest in those we leave behind.

V. That though the prophet has gone, the Lord remains.

Parker, Fountain,March 1st, 1877.

Reference: 2 Kings 2:3. Clergyman's Magazine,vol. xviii., p. 129.