Elisha: The Holy, Humble, Anointed Man of God | New Covenant Men in the Old Testament | Zac Poonen
(RLCF Conference 2020) Series: New Covenant Men in the Old Testament 4.Elisha: The Holy, Humble, Anointed Man of God - Zac Poonen Visit our website for more information: www.cfcindia.com
Summary
The central message is that true knowledge of the truth, as taught by Jesus, results in freedom from sin, not merely head knowledge. The speaker uses the example of Elisha, who was called by God while working hard, to illustrate that God calls faithful, hardworking individuals in their existing vocations. He warns against relying on formal education (like bible schools) as a substitute for genuine calling and service.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How Elisha was calledElijah found Elisha plowing with oxen and threw his mantle on him, marking the calling of a hardworking man rather than someone trained in a human bible school.
Passing through Gilgal, Bethel, Jericho, and JordanElijah tested Elisha by telling him to stay behind at various locations, but Elisha pressed on past forgiveness, church association, and outward power to the place of death to self at Jordan.
Asking for a hard thingElijah told Elisha that asking for a double portion of the spirit was a hard thing, available only to those who keep their eyes fixed on the Lord rather than earthly titles.
Poured water on the hands of ElijahWhen sought out as a true prophet, Elisha was identified not by grand titles or miracles, but by his humble service of pouring water on Elijah's hands.
A holy man of godA prominent woman in Shunem recognized Elisha as a holy man simply by watching his quiet, disciplined conduct and daily life in her home.
Refusing Naaman's moneyAfter Naaman was healed of leprosy, Elisha firmly refused to take any gifts or money from him, unlike his compromised servant Gehazi.
Gehazi's greed and leprosyGehazi chased after Naaman's wealth with lies and deceit, earning spiritual leprosy as a warning against loving money.
Elisha's sickness and deathEven a mighty prophet like Elisha grew sick and died, reminding believers that physical illness does not negate God's hand, and power remained even in his bones when a dead man was revived.2 Kings 13:14–21
Final lessons from old testament menBelievers are urged to follow the true new covenant spirit seen in Elisha—seeking the anointing, embracing the cross, and rejecting the pursuit of money and human glory.Jeremiah 29:13
