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Group Discussion
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Elijah - Facing our Fears
July 7,2024
Week 8: God Provides Us Friends
Jeff Griffin
2 Kings 2:1-15
On the last day of Elijah’s life, his friendship with Elisha was on beautiful display. Our study of this amazing friendship should inspire us to pursue building God-centered friendships.
How did you celebrate the 4th of July?
1. Reread 2 Kings 2:2 (NIV): Elijah said to Elisha, “Stay here, for the Lord has told me to go to Bethel.”
But Elisha replied, “As surely as the Lord lives, I will never leave you!”
So they went together.
Elisha was committed to stick by his friend’s side through good times and bad. Have you ever been blessed by a friend supporting you through a hardship in life? If so, tell the group about it.
2. Read Galatians 6:2 (NIV): “Carry each other’s burdens.”
What does this verse look like when lived out?
3. Read 2 Kings 2:3 (NIV): The company of the prophets at Bethel came out to Elisha and asked, “Do you know that the Lord is going to take your master from you today?”
“Yes, I know,” Elisha replied, “so be quiet.”
Elisha asked the prophets not to make a big deal about Elijah’s last day of life. Elisha could have chosen to mind his own business, but he decided to step into a potentially awkward conversation in order to help out his friend. Have you ever felt called to step into a sticky situation to help a friend? If so, tell the group about it.
4. Reread 2 Kings 2:9 (NIV): Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me, what can I do for you before I am taken from you?”
Elisha replied, “Let me inherit a double portion of your spirit!”
In what ways did Elisha want to be like Elijah?
5. It has been observed that people tend to start resembling those they befriend. How is it that this happens?
6. Reread 2 Kings 2:11-12 (NIV): As they were walking along and talking together, suddenly a chariot of fire and horses of fire appeared and separated the two of them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. Elisha saw him no more. Then he took hold of his garment and tore it in two.
Tearing one’s garment was a sign of deep grief. Have you ever grieved the loss of a friend? Willing to share about it?
7. Why do many fear taking steps to intentionally build a God-centered friendship?
Ask God to provide the courage and wisdom needed to pursue building God-centered friendships.