Any Last Requests? - PDF

This week we are looking at the rather strange story of Elijah's death. Or perhaps we should call it his translation for he does not really die but is taken up into heaven in a chariot of fire. A very unusual story. As far as I know only Enoch and Elijah left this planet without really dying. Some think Moses also, but that is debated. Elijah appears on the mountain of transfiguration in Matt. 17:2; Mark 9:2-7; and Luke 9:28-35. Here he seems to represent restoration (Malachi 4:5-6). His ministry was one of restoration in that he called the people of Israel back to the Lord. John the Baptizer came in the spirit of Elijah to do the same kind of thing. Jewish people look for Elijah to return before the Messiah. A place at table is left for him during Passover meals.
His significance in salvation history is highlighted by his departure from earth in the Chariot of Fire. The business of restoration or reconciliation is at the heart of the Gospel. We are to call the lost back to the Father. His great heart is constantly waiting for people to turn to him. Our text is like an exclamation point at the end of the life of Elijah. Pay attention here! Elijah's life and work are significant!
We can also learn something from the story about tenacity and singleness of purpose. Elisha stuck with his mentor until the very end. We also learn something about prayer and the necessity of knowing the Lord's heart. To whom could you say: "Ask for anything and I will give it to you?" I would think only people you know well and trust completely. This kind of commitment/promise comes only out of a close and trusting relationship. Prayer is like that, or should be like that.
Questions for Discussion:
1. Slide 2-3. What does it mean to be God's prophet in the New Testament sense? What does that mean for you? (see Acts 2:17-18)
2. Slide 8-11. What does it mean to pray in Jesus' name? What must we know before we can pray in his name? How do we make certain of that?
3. Slide 12-14. What does wholehearted commitment to Christ look like in your world? In what ways do people make half-hearted commitments to Christ? What does that look like? How does that feel?
4. Slide 15. What was so remarkable about Elijah that the Lord should take him to heaven this way? What does tell us about the heart of God?
5. Slide 16. In what ways can we be more intentional about keeping the Lord's mission in mind? How can we make sure we are tenacious in our commitment to his purposes?