Prayer
Because the primary goal of our time together is to establish relationships and learn how to walk with one another in all that God has called us to be and do, we’d like to begin by praying for one another. So, does anyone have anything you’d like us to pray for or anything to share regarding how you’ve seen God moving in your life that we can celebrate together?
Opening Question
If you could take a trip somewhere this summer, where would you go and who would you take with you?
So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen in front of him, and he was with the twelfth. Elijah passed by him and cast his cloak upon him. And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, “Let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you?” And he returned from following him and took the yoke of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the yokes of the oxen and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him.
– 1 Kings 19:19-21
The Mantle that’s Thrown
Elisha’s invitation to follow Elijah came to him suddenly, interrupting him in the middle of his life and work. Have you ever been suddenly interrupted with an opportunity that was life changing? What was that like for you?
Elijah invited Elisha to become his disciple and learn from him. Have you ever been in a discipleship type relationship with someone— either as the one learning/growing or the one teaching/encouraging? If so, what is something meaningful you received in that relationship? If not, would you be open to being disciples or discipling someone else?
The Plow that’s Left
Elisha leaves a safe, lucrative life behind so that he can follow Elijah. What do you imagine compelled him or gave him the courage to make this decision?
Elisha’s decision to follow Elijah was costly, as faith so often is. How has following Jesus been costly for you?
The Fire that’s Lit
Elisha slaughtered his oxen and burnt his plow before going with Elijah, thereby eliminating the possibility of returning to his old life. He then invited everyone to feast with him before he left. What does this show us about the importance of a decision to obey God and follow Jesus? What does it show us about the value of celebration and community?
How do you celebrate big milestones or meaningful moments in your life? Do you have any upcoming decisions or milestones you will be celebrating in the near future?
Closing Thought
In your final time together, share any needs you may have with one another and spend some time praying for each other.