The Prophet ElishaShembull

God’s Power Is Not Limited by Death

“And as a man was being buried, behold, a marauding band was seen and the man was thrown into the grave of Elisha, and as soon as the man touched the bones of Elisha, he revived and stood on his feet.” (2 Kings 13:21)

The end of Elisha’s life is described in just a few words: “So Elisha died, and they buried him” (2 Kings 13:20). Whereas Elijah was taken up into heaven in a chariot burning with fire (see 2 Kings 2:11), Elisha just died of an illness after having served the Lord for about 60 years.

And yet, this was not the end of the story! Sometime later, another body was hastily tossed into Elisha’s tomb when a group of Moabite soldiers disrupted a funeral. As soon as this body touched the bones of Elisha, the dead man became alive again! This manifestation of God’s power made clear that He was not limited by the death of Elisha — as king Joash had feared. God was still at work.

This story makes me think of Jesus Christ. He also died and was buried. People thought this was the end of His ministry. But Jesus’ death actually opened the way for us to be “buried with Him” and be raised to eternal life! (See Romans 6:3-4). By dying on the cross, Jesus conquered death. Whoever believes in Him will live, even though they die (John 11:25).

Do you understand how the death of Jesus Christ opens the way to abundant life?

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