Lifespan

Probably the latter half of the seventh century B.C.

Ministry

Zephaniah was a prophet in the land of Judah.

Preparation and Calling

Zephaniah was the great-great-grandson of King Hezekiah. He was probably familiar with the royal courts and also the spiritual leadership of the country. He likely also came from a family that had some wealth and social standing.

Interaction with God

If the book’s literary format is indicative of Zephaniah’s actual experience, he had a series of dialogues with the Lord Himself. Each of the seven parts of the book includes both a speech by the Lord and one by Zephaniah, except the last one, which includes only the Lord’s.

Social Situation

The people of Judah were being significantly influenced by the powerful Assyrians. They had begun dressing like the Assyrians and worshiping their gods. Zephaniah saw the errors of their ways and taught against this trend.

Key Teachings

Zephaniah instructed the people to become humble, obey God, and worship only the one true God. He also taught of God’s desire to bring home those who had been driven away from Jerusalem.

Living with the Prophet

Zephaniah taught that while it is tempting to become a real fan of shopping beyond one’s means and then showing off the purchases, it is far more important to become humble and worship God. How can you show your devotion to your Father in Heaven more than your devotion to the clothing god or other forms of false worship?

Sources

Learning Bible, the book of Zephaniah

Holy Bible, the book of Zephaniah

Oxford Companion to the Bible, s.v. “Zephaniah, the Book of”

Lifespan

8??-785 B.C.

Ministry

Elisha was prophet during Jehoram, Jehu, Jehoahaz, and Joash’s reign in the Northern Kingdom (849-785 B.C.).

Preparation and Calling

Elijah, the principal prophet of Israel, called Elisha from working the fields to become his assistant and heir apparent. Elijah places his mantle on Elisha, thus symbolically appointing him to the calling. Later, Elijah gives him the mantle, thus conveying to him the official authority and position of prophet.

Interaction with God

Elisha’s interactions with God are implied through his actions. We are not aware of any open visions such as Elijah had, nor do we have record of angelic ministrations. Predominantly Elisha had the gift of revelation and discernment that led him to lead both political leaders and private individuals. He served all classes, whether it be healing a king’s servant of leprosy or raising a young boy from the dead.

Social Situation

Though he was seen as Elijah’s disciple, Elisha had a much different ministry than his predecessor. Elisha has occasional friendly contact with the kings of Israel, whereas Elijah was always hostile. They seemed to have served together for half a dozen years. When Elijah was translated, his prophet’s mantel fell to Elisha, thus symbolically as well as physically transferring the title and the calling to his heir apparent.

Elisha’s ministry lasted for more than 50 years. The bulk of what is recorded about that ministry is a string of miracles, including dividing the river Jordan, raising a young lad from the dead, curing Naaman of leprosy, causing an iron ax to float, and causing the Syrians to go blind.

Key Teachings

Through his actions and many miracles, Elisha exemplifies the meaning of his name, “God has granted salvation.” In all things, the prophet teaches that salvation is in and through the God of Israel only.

Living with the Prophet

Elisha once miraculously fed one hundred people with but a few loaves of bread and some fresh corn. Feeding people’s physical appetites can be a very important service, especially if they are hungry! But too often we neglect our spiritual hunger. Take time this week to spend at least 30 minutes feeding your spiritual self through prayer, a contemplative walk in the park, or an act of service. Take special note of how you feel after partaking of spiritual nourishment and resolve to avoid spiritual starvation.

Sources:

The Learning Bible (CEV)

Oxford Companion to the Bible, eds. Bruce M. Metzger and Michael D. Coogan

The Holy Bible (KJV)