Calvary Church Bentonville

There are several things we can learn from Elisha's story. Elijah was well-known because of the mighty works but he was also a wanted and hunted man. When Elijah approached Elisha, Elisha must've known he would be hated and hunted as well but instead of shying away, used his tools as kindling to cook his oxen. He said goodbye to his old life to embrace his new life. If we want to go far with Christ, we must also be willing to take up the mantle and distance ourselves from our old way of life and follow Christ. In this study of Elisha, we learn how to grow in faith and expectation and how God is greater than our situation.

Though their roles are different in history, there are common threads in all of their stories. Abraham so trusted God that he travelled great distances and waited long to see the promised land. He never staggered in his faith. He instilled in his son that same faith. Isaac continued in the faith and dug wells and was at peace because he trusted God's promise. Jacob desired the same promise of Abraham and Isaac and valued that relationship with the promise-giver. He overcame every obstacle and challenge and received the same promise. We need to desire God's promises and learn to trust him no matter the cost.

Martha exhibited the qualities of one who serves. She was hospitable and generous, skilled in organization, and had good work ethic. There are many aspects of God’s kingdom that require such characteristics from people but she was overly distracted and overly occupied with serving. Alternately, Mary was willing to take advantage of her time in His presence even if it meant being criticized and questioned by others. There was no pride, no occupying thoughts of self, and no distractions. However, we can't dismiss Martha for being practical nor can we dismiss Mary for being spiritual. We must learn to find a balance between the two, the practical and the spiritual.

A centurion oversaw around 80 men and was considered the backbone of the roman army. The centurion in Matthew chapter 8 recognized the authority of Jesus as Lord. Jesus recognized the centurion's great faith and healed his servant. In this moment, racial boundaries were destroyed as the disciples watched on. From the centurion's phrase, "Speak the Word" we learn the power of faith to move beyond our current circumstances and environment.