Elijah is certainly an enigmatic character in the history of Israel. Coming (as he does) after the period of institutionalisation of temple worship and the monarchy, he is a most unconventional presence in the stories he inhabits.
The story of Elijah’s death and the passing of his prophetic mantle to Elisha (his successor), is designed to ensure no one is left in any doubt about how important Elijah’s ministry has been. The prophetic voice must be heard and understood as integral to the wellbeing of the people of Israel.
When Jesus is transfigured, he is seen with two crucial figures from Israel’s history - Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets). These two elements of law and prophetic spirit continue to be in dialogue with each other… and sometimes in tension.
We do well to listen for what the Spirit might be saying to us as we discern what it means to be the people of God today.
