Elisha, Chariot of Fire

Video Workshop lesson suggestion

suggestion originally posted by Neil MacQueen

Nest Entertainment's Elisha video is perfect for the story of Elijah and Elisha, Mantle, Chariot. It begins with the fiery chariot taking Elijah up in to the heavens and Elisha picking up his mantle. It then goes on to describe Elisha's ministry AFTER Elijah had gone, including the story of Naaman.

Note: Nest's Elisha video not to be confused with the Elijah video from Nest -which is mostly Elijah on Mt. Carmel.

Both videos come with a workbook that has supplemental activities and handout pages.

Open the lesson by summarizing the story of Elijah, and the fact that Elijah had all but given up, felt defeated, when God told him to "go find and anoint young Elisha" to carry on his prophet ministry.

Early in the Rotation schedule the kids will know less. Write a timeline of this Rotation sets vignettes on the board. 

Read and discuss the Chariot of Fire part of the story. Discussing the symbolism of the "passing of the mantle" to the young Elisha. Ask the children what things their parents or grandparents may have passed on to them.  

View the Elisha Video. Feel free to comment throughout the video, pausing if needed.

Conclude by asking the students to summarize what they just saw.

Introduce the idea of "Talk the talk and walk the walk".... which means, we must follow through on our promises. When Elisha picked up the mantle, it was only the beginning of the journey. In many ways, our children are in the same spot.... picking up the mantle and beginning the journey.

Help students IDENTIFY who around them in their daily lives needs THEM to be their hero. Ask for suggestions on how they can show or share with younger or older people their faith.  If you have time, practice picking up a rolled 'mantle' and striking the waters with it and shouting, "where is the God of Elijah!"   ...just like Elisha did. Great memory hook!