Board index ‹ Specific Bible verses, texts, and passages ‹ 2 Kings

[Akari]

We all know the similarities and differences between Elijah and John the Baptist. What are some of the similarities and differences between Elisha and John the Baptist?

[jimwalton]

The Bible never makes such a comparison, but a little reading tells it.

Similarities:

- They were both considered to be prophets of YHWH.

Differences:

- Elisha followed on the heels of another prophet. John didn't.
- Elisha did miracles. John didn't.
- Elisha at times gave assistance to the kings of Israel. John criticized the ruler of Palestine at the time, Herod.
- Elisha raised a boy from the dead. John never did anything like that.
- Elisha accomplished political military victories for the people. John didn't.
- Elisha died a natural death. John was executed.

[Akari]

Another thing I was inspired by what you said is that Elisha came after a prophet (Elijah) while John came before a prophet (Jesus)

[jimwalton]

See there? Good one. But of course you know Jesus, despite being prophetic, was far more than a prophet (but maybe you weren't meaning he was only a prophet).