Session 5 Overview
This week’s BeTheDads session challenges us on Christian fatherhood to honestly examine our expectations of God and our obedience to His calling. Drawing from the powerful story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2, we see that faith is not passive—it requires bold asking, willing obedience, and courageous action.
What we do as dads today doesn’t stop with us. Our prayers, decisions, and obedience shape our marriages, influence our children, and leave a spiritual legacy for generations.
Key Scripture
2 Kings 2:9–14
‘9When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away.” And Elisha replied, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.” 10“You have asked a difficult thing,” Elijah replied. “If you see me when I am taken from you, then you will get your request. But if not, then you won’t.” 11As they were walking along and talking, suddenly a chariot of fire appeared, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried by a whirlwind into heaven. 12Elisha saw it and cried out, “My father! My father! I see the chariots and charioteers of Israel!” And as they disappeared from sight, Elisha tore his clothes in distress. 13Elisha picked up Elijah’s cloak, which had fallen when he was taken up. Then Elisha returned to the bank of the Jordan River. 14He struck the water with Elijah’s cloak and cried out, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” Then the river divided, and Elisha went across. ‘
Elisha asks Elijah for a double portion of his spirit. After Elijah is taken to heaven, Elisha picks up the fallen cloak, strikes the Jordan River, and walks forward in faith—confirming that God’s power was never about a position, but about obedience.
Teaching Points
1. Christian Fatherhood Starts with Raising Your Expectation
“What you walk in expecting, you walk out receiving.”
Elisha did not ask for crumbs—he asked boldly for a double portion. Too often, men lower their expectations of God because of fear, past failure, or feeling unworthy. But humility is not thinking less of yourself; it’s agreeing with what God says about you.
Scripture Focus: Matthew 7:7–11
For Dads:
- Stop praying survival prayers and start praying legacy prayers.
- God is a good Father who invites His sons to ask boldly.
Related Resource:
Fatherhood Hearts: How to Lead Your Family with a Clean Heart
https://bethedads.com/2026/01/fatherhood-hearts-how-to-lead-your-family-with-a-clean-heart/
2. Christian Fatherhood Means Taking Hold of God-Given Responsibility
When Elijah’s cloak fell, Elisha had a choice. Picking it up meant he could never go back to being an apprentice. The cloak represented identity, authority, and responsibility.
God’s calling does not simply add to our life—it redefines it.
Scripture Focus: James 1:22
For Dads:
- Leadership in the home requires intentionality and consistency.
- Obedience often demands change before comfort.
Related Resource:
Session 1 – Being Dads Clothed for the Garden
https://bethedads.com/2026/01/clean-2026-session-1-being-dads-clothed-for-the-garden/
3. Christian Fatherhood Requires Obedience Without Full Clarity
Elisha stood at the Jordan River with the cloak on his shoulders. He could have waited for certainty—but instead, he struck the water in faith. God did not part the river until obedience came first.
Clarity is helpful, but faith is required.
Scripture Focus: Hebrews 11:6
For Dads:
- Waiting for perfect clarity can delay obedience.
- Faith steps today may unlock freedom and healing tomorrow.
Related Resources:
Mind the Gap – Session 25
https://bethedads.com/2025/12/session-25-mind-the-gap/
Dads, When Change Is Coming but You Don’t Know What’s Next
https://bethedads.com/2025/08/dads-when-change-is-coming-but-you-dont-know-whats-next/
Group Discussion: Applying Christian Fatherhood at Home
- Where have you lowered your expectations of God because of disappointment or fear?
- Why do you think God honors bold, faith-filled prayers like Elisha’s request for a double portion?
- What is one area of responsibility or leadership God is asking you to step into right now?
- Where are you waiting for clarity when God may be asking for obedience instead?
- What does “crossing your Jordan” look like for you this week as a dad or husband?
Dad Challenges
Personal Challenge (This Week)
- Pray one bold, specific prayer each day.
- Identify one step of obedience you’ve been avoiding—and take it.
At Home Challenge
- Read 2 Kings 2 with your kids.
- Pray together, asking God for courage, obedience, and faith.
Related Resource:
The Future Is Now! So We Can’t Wait to Be the Dads…
https://bethedads.com/2025/03/the-future-is-now-so-we-cant-wait-to-be-the-dads/
Closing Prayer
Father God,
Forgive us for asking for less when You desire to give us more. Help us raise our expectations, take hold of the responsibility You place before us, and step out in faith even when clarity feels incomplete. Shape us into men who lead their families with courage and obedience, leaving a legacy that honors You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
