Mentoring Mandate

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Author: Stan DeKoven

In scripture, there are two primary illustrations of training for men and women in ministry…really three when you consider Jesus, which of course, we always should. In the Old Testament, the Bible relates a spiritually significant story of the elder Prophet Elijah whose mantle of authority and anointing was passed on to his servant, Elisha (2 Kings 2). The mantle was old and worn. It had served Elijah well. It was with him, enduring the cold lonely nights in the wilderness. He had used it to wrap himself when he prayed.

The mantle was with Elijah on Mt. Carmel as he confronted a wicked king and backslidden Israel and called down fire from heaven. For years, Elisha shadowed Elijah. They ate together. They traveled together. They prayed together. Elisha witnessed the mighty manifestation of God’s power as Elijah ministered in supernatural power and authority. Years later, when he and Elisha stood at the Jordan River, Elijah took the mantle in his hands and struck the river. The waters parted, and they walked together across the river on dry ground.