January 28th – Who is Next?

1 Kings 19:11f

1 Kings 19:15-18; 19-22

Introduction/Context: Part 3…let’s go!

I. Seasons of Transition

Application: In the kingdom, and in the Kingdom’s work there will always be movement and transition.

Application: Here at CLC we and I are keenly aware and make room, concessions and commitments to train those who God chooses to follow.

In both our Board and our Staff, God is preparing and training individuals for the tasks of tomorrow.

When it comes to changes:

1. Don’t begrudge.

2. Don’t panic.

3. Support / Encourage

4. Cooperate

5. Mentor

Transition: The second thought for our consideration is that when transition comes, God always has a plan in place!

II. God Preserves / Sets Apart for Service

“Go back the same way you came…”

“when you get there anoint.”

mashach {maw-shakh’} 68x Meaning: 1) to smear, anoint, spread a liquid 1a) 1a1) to smear 1a2) to anoint (as consecration) 1a3) to anoint, consecrate 1b) (Niphal) to be anointed.

Origins of anointing: The origin of anointing was from a practice of shepherds. Lice and other insects would often get into the wool of sheep, and when they got near the sheep’s head, they could burrow into the sheep’s ears and kill the sheep. So, ancient shepherds poured oil on the sheep’s head. This made the wool slippery, making it impossible for insects to get near the sheep’s ears because the insects would slide off. From this, anointing became symbolic of blessing, protection, and empowerment.

III. Beginning Credential – 19:18

“I will preserve 7,000 others in Israel who have never bowed down to Baal or kissed him.”

I believe the initial / beginning credential for those whom God appoints and anoints begins here.

2 Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.” (NKJ)

I would make note a couple of things here:

• Not necessarily the gifted

• Not referring to perfect

But, to those that:

• Have not surrendered or given themselves to

• Those who are not enamored (in love) to

IV. Leaving and Cleaving Process

This language we usually when it comes to new husbands and wives. They are told that they are to leave their parents (as main source) and to cleave to new spouse.

The same I believe is true of those whom God calls!

Luke 9:23 “Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily1, and follow Me.” (NKJ)

Matthew 10: Rich Young Ruler: obey yes but then sell out / cash out earnings and follow.

Just my thoughts / opinion: I don’t believe its God’s intention to separate us from family or to send us into the unknown against our will or ask us to do things that we hate doing.

I believe that the Lord, when he calls us to service and prepares to anoint us is more about two things:

1. Our Loyalty and genuine love for Him being the most important criteria.

2. Making sure we understand the potential cost involved with the calling/gifting.

Transition: Once this is established, Elijah preforms a ceremony that was known and recognized.

V. Beginning of Transference

19:19, “…found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he was with the twelfth. Then Elijah passed by him and threw his mantle on him.” (NKJ)

The mantle, or pallium, was a peculiar garb of a prophet (Zech 13:4, 2 Kings 1:5) probably made of skin dressed with the hair on it.

Question: Might / could this represent the sacrifice necessary by Jesus for his blessing(s)?

Transition: One more thought before ending with another question.

Question: Is the mantle of God’s anointing automatic and without pursuit? Can or does the pastor say, this is yours, I give it to you and that’s that? Is an ordination service a guarantee of abiding presence and power?

Transition: To answer that I would say at minimal, let’s take this narrative to its conclusion.

VI. In Pursuit of the Holy – 2 Kings 2:1-14

Question: What do I see in these verses?

1. A desire for purpose. What do you want? A double-portion.

2. A dedication for pursuit. Where ever you go, ill go.

3. A tenacity against discouragement. – Wait here Elisha…I’ll be back. NO WAY!

4. A loyalty/respect for the past and the post. -Tore his clothes in distress.

5. A recognition of the true source. – Where is the God of Elijah?

6. A commitment to do likewise. Goes on his way and begins to see God do great things.

Conclusion: Don’t believe this is a prophet changing of the guard completely today, but I do have a sense of wonderful ministry anointing for the future.

Who is next?