Classic Sermon Outlines (continued)
CLASSIC SERMON OUTLINES — Alexander Maclaren fire. The impetuosity of his nature and the stormy energy of his career had — already been symbolized (I Kings 19:11-12).
2. It was a translation by external power. It suggests very plainly that Elijah was lifted to the skies by power acting on him from without. He did not ascen was carried up; the earthly frame and the human nature had no power to rise.
B. The Ascension of Christ.
1. It was quiet. The silent gentleness, which did not strive nor cry nor cause His voice to be heard in the streets, marks Him even in that hour of lofty and transcendent triumph. No blaze of fiery chariots nor agitation of 'tempest is needed to bear Him heavenwards.
2. It was by inherent power. Our Lord's ascension by His own inherent | power is brought into boldest relief when contrasted with Elijah's rapture — and is evidently the fitting expression, as it is the consequence, of His sole _ and singular Divine nature.
II. THE CONTRAST BETWEEN THE LIFE'S WORK OF EACH WHICH PRECEDED THE TWO EVENTS.
A. Elijah Leaves His Work Unfinished.
1, The symbol of transference. The falling mantle of Elijah has become a symbol known to all the world for the transference of unfinished tasks and the appointment of successors to departed greatness. It was the symbol of office and authority transferred. w, The powerlessness of Elijah to make the transference. Elisha asked that he might have a double portion of his master's spirit, not twice as much as_ his master, but the eldest son's share of the father's possessions. His master. had no power to bestow the gift and had to reply as one who has nothing — that he has not received and cannot dispose of the grace that dwells in him.
B. Christ Completes His Work.
None are hailed as His successors. He has left no unfinished work which another may perfect. He has done no work which another may do again for new generations.