Summary: To be called to a place of power, one must learn how to serve first.

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.