THE BONES OF ELISHA

July 21 - 2 Kings 11-15

Then Elisha died, and they buried him. And the raiding bands from Moab invaded the land in the spring of the year. 21 So it was, as they were burying a man, that suddenly they spied a band of raiders; and they put the man in the tomb of Elisha; and when the man was let down and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived and stood on his feet. (2 Kings 13:20-21)

The brief account of the dead man who came back to life after touching the bones of Elisha is one of the most remarkable miracles recorded in Scripture. At first glance, the story seems strange and almost out of place, yet it teaches profound truths about the power of God, the authority of His Word, and the enduring influence of a faithful servant.

First, this miracle demonstrates that God alone possesses power over life and death. Elisha had already died, and there was no power inherent in his bones. Rather, God chose this extraordinary event to display that His power had not diminished. The Lord who had worked through Elisha during his lifetime continued to honor His prophet after death. The miracle reminds believers that God's power is not limited by human weakness, age, or even death. He remains sovereign over all creation.

Second, this miracle served as God's final confirmation of Elisha's prophetic ministry. Throughout his life Elisha performed numerous miracles that pointed Israel to the living God. Even after his death, God testified that Elisha had truly been His servant. This final miracle was God's divine seal upon a lifetime of faithful ministry. Although the prophet's voice had been silenced, his testimony continued. Faithful servants may die, but the influence of their lives continues long after they are gone.

Third, the passage illustrates the hope of resurrection. While this miracle was only a temporary restoration to earthly life, it foreshadowed the greater resurrection power that would ultimately be revealed in Jesus Christ. The unnamed man eventually died again, but Christ rose never to die again and promises eternal life to all who trust Him. This Old Testament miracle points forward to the Gospel, where death is conquered permanently through Christ's resurrection.

The story also reminds Christians that God often works in unexpected ways. The mourners were not seeking a miracle; they were simply trying to escape the approaching Moabite raiders. Yet in the midst of fear and urgency, God intervened in a manner no one could have imagined. His providence frequently operates beyond human planning and expectation. Believers can trust that God is able to accomplish His purposes even in circumstances that appear chaotic or hopeless.

Finally, the passage encourages every believer to pursue a life of faithfulness. Elisha's greatest legacy was not this miracle but his unwavering obedience to God over many years. His life demonstrates that lasting spiritual influence comes from faithfully walking with the Lord. Christians should desire to leave behind a testimony that continues to point others to God long after they are gone.

In only two verses, this remarkable account proclaims the sovereignty of God, affirms the credibility of His prophet, foreshadows the resurrection of Christ, and encourages believers to live lives whose influence extends beyond the grave. It is a powerful reminder that while God's servants die, the God they serve lives forever.