Luke-Acts and Exemplar Prophets: Luke's Use of the Elijah-Elisha Narrative and the Role of the Spirit

Abstract

This thesis examines Luke’s use of exemplars with a focus on his utilization of the Elijah-Elisha Narrative (EEN) in his Elijah-Elisha Cycles. My first chapter introduces the topic of the thesis and sets the scope of my study. Chapter two examines the lives of various figures from Luke-Acts to show the variety of ways that Luke uses exemplars to shape the virtue of his readers. Chapter three provides an overview of the EEN in 1 and 2 Kings and introduces how Elijah and Elisha themes are used in Luke-Acts. Chapter four examines how these themes are paralleled in the giving of the Spirit and the disciples’ imitation of Christ as they continue his ministry. Chapter five concludes my thesis by addressing the relevance of exemplars and Luke’s use of the EEN to the Christian life.