Biblical Reference: 1 Kings 19:19-21

Context and Background:
The calling of Elisha by the prophet Elijah is a significant event in the narrative of the Old Testament, marking the transition of prophetic authority and the continuation of God's work through His chosen servants. This event occurs during the reign of King Ahab in Israel, a time characterized by widespread idolatry and apostasy. Elijah, having confronted the prophets of Baal and experienced a profound encounter with God at Mount Horeb, is instructed by the Lord to anoint Elisha as his successor.

Narrative Description:
The account of Elijah calling Elisha is found in 1 Kings 19:19-21. Elijah, following God's command, departs from Mount Horeb and finds Elisha, the son of Shaphat, plowing with twelve yoke of oxen. Elisha is working with the twelfth pair, indicating his wealth and status, as owning such a number of oxen was a sign of prosperity.

Elijah approaches Elisha and throws his cloak over him, a symbolic act signifying the transfer of prophetic authority and the call to follow in Elijah's footsteps. The cloak, or mantle, represents the office and responsibility of a prophet, and this gesture indicates that Elisha is chosen by God to be Elijah's successor.

Response of Elisha:
Elisha's response is immediate and decisive. He leaves the oxen and runs after Elijah, expressing his willingness to follow but requesting permission to bid farewell to his parents. Elijah's reply, "Go back, for what have I done to you?" (1 Kings 19:20), suggests that the decision to follow is ultimately Elisha's, emphasizing the voluntary nature of his commitment.

Elisha then takes a radical step to demonstrate his dedication. He slaughters the oxen and uses the wooden plowing equipment to cook the meat, which he distributes to the people. This act signifies a complete break from his past life and a total commitment to his new calling. By destroying his means of livelihood, Elisha ensures that there is no turning back, fully embracing his role as a prophet.

Theological Significance:
The calling of Elisha highlights several key theological themes. First, it underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing and equipping His servants for His purposes. Elisha's call is initiated by God and facilitated through Elijah, demonstrating the divine orchestration of leadership succession.

Second, the narrative illustrates the cost of discipleship. Elisha's willingness to leave his family and livelihood reflects the total commitment required to follow God's call. This theme resonates with the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament, where He emphasizes the need for His followers to prioritize their commitment to Him above all else.

Lastly, the event foreshadows the continuity of God's prophetic work in Israel. Despite the challenges and opposition faced by Elijah, God's purposes will prevail through the next generation of prophets, as embodied in Elisha's ministry.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, the act of throwing a cloak over someone was a recognized symbol of transferring authority or office. The agricultural setting of Elisha's call also reflects the agrarian society of Israel, where wealth and social status were often tied to land and livestock.

Elisha's immediate response and decisive actions would have been understood by the original audience as a profound demonstration of faith and obedience, qualities highly esteemed in the biblical tradition.

Conclusion:
The calling of Elisha by Elijah is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, rich with theological and symbolic meaning. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's ongoing work through His chosen servants and the radical commitment required to follow His call.