Elijah was the leader of the Sons of the prophets, bands of prophets located throughout Israel. Elisha was his protege. Naturally the other prophets were jealous of him. Our scripture opens when there is general knowledge among the prophets that the Lord was soon to take Elijah.

Elijah was told by God to go on a journey from Gilgal to Bethel. He told Elisha to remain behind. Elisha refused, saying that as long as the Lord and Elijah live he will not leave his master. Together they arrive at Bethel where the sons of the prophets come out to meet them. They taunt Elisha that this day the Lord will take away his master from over him. Elisha replies curtly, "Yes, I know it; hold your peace."

Elijah then informs Elisha that the Lord has sent him to Jericho, and Elisha is to stay behind. Once m…