Bible Group for June 27 reading

 

1) I think this reads well for any transition period, especially interim pastors, but any time we face a succession issue. Max Weber, in viewing leadership, thought that the succession issue was a special problem for charismatic leaders.

2) Someone may want us to carry a mantle that we do not want a part of. i remember how many parents were trying to force their kids into law or medicine, or sports.

3) We rightly focus on Elisha, but consider what it is like for a person handing over their mantle of experience, authority, vocation, position.

4) i can think of no better example of the river as a liminal marker than this one that also marks the boundary between life and death.this is where Moses died, perhaps why they are together in the Transfiguration.

5) We often say that we want to die quickly, but that prevents saying goodbye. Even with the chances, it is hard for them to say goodbye.

6) It is likely that wanting a double share of the spirit is closer to the eldest 2/3 inheritance more than 2X whatever charisma that Elijah has.

7) Elijah=God is Jah and Elisha-God helps/saves/delivers. The close names allow another working on the Moses/Joshua theme.

8) i would assume the chariots are part of the divine army/host. The taking up of Elijah obviously elicits thoughts of ascension a la Enoch in Genesis. that is why he becomes an end time figure.