Bible Explorer · Journey · 6 Stops
Follow Elijah and Elisha from Gilgal through Bethel and Jericho to the Jordan in 2 Kings 2:1-14, then follow Elisha back across the river. Explore faithful companionship, prophetic inheritance, grief, and God’s continuing work. The map is illustrative: Gilgal is unidentified, and the exact route, crossing, and departure site are uncertain.
Follow the full biblical biography of Elijah.
The Gilgal of this account cannot be identified with certainty and should not automatically be equated with Joshua’s camp near Jericho. Reflect: Who has helped you learn to remain faithful?
Reflect: How can you remain present with someone facing a difficult transition?
Reflect: What does Elisha’s persistence teach you about faithful companionship?
Compare Joshua 3:14-17 and Joshua 4:1-7. The crossing recalls God’s earlier provision, but Scripture gives no exact crossing coordinates. Reflect: Where do you need to trust God as you take the next step?
The double portion can be understood through the firstborn inheritance provision in Deuteronomy 21:17: a request to inherit prophetic responsibility, rather than a formula for twice as much power. The chariot separates the prophets; the whirlwind carries Elijah up. The departure site is unspecified. Reflect: What responsibility are you being prepared to receive?
Read 2 Kings 2:15 for the prophets’ recognition of Elisha’s ministry. The story continues through God’s presence with the successor. Reflect: How will you put what you have received into faithful service?