Why did Gehazi decide to pursue Naaman in 2 Kings 5:20? Context of the Miracle • Naaman, commander of the Aramean army, is miraculously healed of leprosy after obeying Elisha’s instructions to wash in the Jordan (2 Kings 5:1–14). • Overwhelmed with gratitude, Naaman offers Elisha “ten talents of silver, six thousand shekels of gold, and ten sets of clothing” (5:5, 15). • Elisha refuses every gift, underscoring that God’s grace is never for sale (5:16; cf. Matthew 10:8). Key Statement in 2 Kings 5:20 “But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, ‘My master has spared Naaman the Aramean, not accepting from him what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him.’” What Prompted Gehazi’s Decision • He was offended by Elisha’s refusal of reward: “My master has spared Naaman… not accepting from him what he brought.” • He coveted the wealth on display: “I will… get something from him.” (cf. Exodus 20:17). • He rationalized his plan with a religious oath—“As surely as the LORD lives”—showing how greed can cloak itself in spiritual language (Proverbs 14:12). Root Issues Exposed in Gehazi’s Heart • Greed and the love of money (1 Timothy 6:10). • Discontentment with the humble role of servant (Philippians 2:3–4). • A transactional view of God’s work, treating grace as merchandise (Acts 8:18–20). • Lack of trust in God’s provision (Psalm 37:25). • Deception—he intends to lie to both Naaman and Elisha (2 Kings 5:22, 25). Contrast with Elisha’s Example " Elisha " Gehazi " " --- " --- " " Freely gives, reflecting God’s grace " Seeks payment, commodifying grace " " Values God’s honor above material gain " Values material gain above God’s honor " " Walks in integrity and transparency " Resorts to secrecy and lies " Takeaways for Believers Today • God’s gifts are free; attempting to profit from them dishonors the Giver (Romans 3:24). • Covetous thoughts, if not confronted, quickly turn into sinful actions (James 1:14–15). • Spiritual service must remain untainted by greed (1 Peter 5:2). • True ministry puts God’s glory and others’ blessing above personal enrichment (2 Corinthians 4:5). |
    |