The Elisha-Peter Connection

The above link is to part of a video I show my Freshmen when we discuss the lives of Elijah and Elisha. Upon watching it in class yesterday, I couldn't help but be struck by the similarities of the portrayals of Elijah and Elisha to how Jesus and Peter are portrayed in the gospels.

In the film Elisha is called by Elijah. When Elisha follows, Elijah questions him in order for Elisha to prove his readiness for the journey ahead. Elijah also imparts his authority to Elisha just before he ascends into heaven.

Much of the division between Judaism and Christianity rests with the fact that Elijah himself did not descend from heaven to prepare the people for the coming of the Messiah as foretold. Christians argue that the Transfiguration is all that needed to take place. However, many overlook how the lives of Jesus and Peter reflect their Old Testament predecessors. Jesus called Peter to follow him and made him the "rock upon which I build my foundation." After Jesus ascended into heaven, Peter was left to lead the continuation of his earthly ministry just as Elisha had been by Elijah.

So just as some waiting the coming of Elijah, we too wait the coming of Christ again. Luckily, both men entrusted their mission to their closest followers who continued to impart it on us.