2 Kings 5:16

But Elisha replied, "As surely as the LORD lives, before whom I stand, I will not accept it." And although Naaman urged him to accept it, he refused.

Study Bible

But Elisha replied
This phrase introduces the response of the prophet Elisha, a central figure in this narrative. Elisha, whose name means "God is salvation," is a prophet in Israel, succeeding Elijah. His role as a prophet is to communicate God's will to the people and to demonstrate God's power through miracles. In this context, Elisha's reply is significant as it reflects his character and his commitment to God. Historically, prophets like Elisha were seen as God's mouthpieces, and their words carried divine authority.

“As surely as the LORD lives
This oath underscores the certainty and seriousness of Elisha's statement. The phrase "as surely as the LORD lives" is a common biblical expression used to affirm the truthfulness of one's words, invoking the living God as a witness. In Hebrew, the word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal existence and faithfulness. This phrase reflects the deep-seated belief in the living and active presence of God in the affairs of His people.

before whom I stand
This phrase indicates Elisha's position as a servant and representative of God. To "stand before" someone in biblical terms often implies service or ministry. Elisha acknowledges his role as a prophet who stands in the presence of God, ready to do His bidding. This reflects the biblical understanding of prophets as those who are in close communion with God, receiving His messages to deliver to the people.

I will not accept it.”
Elisha's refusal to accept a gift from Naaman, the Aramean commander, is a powerful statement of his integrity and the nature of God's grace. In the ancient Near East, it was customary to offer gifts to those who provided healing or divine favor. However, Elisha's rejection of the gift highlights that the healing Naaman received was an act of God's grace, not something that could be bought or earned. This refusal serves as a reminder that God's blessings are not commodities to be traded but are freely given out of His love and mercy.

And Naaman urged him
Naaman's insistence on giving a gift reflects the cultural norms of reciprocity and gratitude. In his context, it would have been expected to offer a reward for such a miraculous healing. Naaman's urging also shows his respect and appreciation for what he has received. This interaction highlights the cultural differences between Naaman's expectations and the prophetic witness of God's grace.

but he refused
Elisha's steadfast refusal reinforces the message that God's work cannot be monetized. This act of refusal is a testament to Elisha's commitment to uphold the sanctity of God's miracles and to ensure that the glory is given to God alone. It serves as a lesson in humility and the proper response to God's gifts, emphasizing that true service to God is not motivated by personal gain but by faithfulness to His calling.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elisha
A prophet in Israel, successor to Elijah, known for his miracles and strong faith in God. In this passage, he demonstrates integrity and devotion to God by refusing a gift.

2. Naaman
A commander of the army of the king of Aram, who was healed of leprosy by following Elisha's instructions. He represents a foreigner who comes to recognize the power of the God of Israel.

3. The LORD
The God of Israel, whose power and presence are acknowledged by Elisha as the reason for his actions and decisions.

4. Aram (Syria)
The nation from which Naaman hails, often at odds with Israel, highlighting the cross-cultural and divine nature of the miracle.

5. The Gift
The offering from Naaman to Elisha as a token of gratitude for his healing, which Elisha refuses to accept, emphasizing the grace and sovereignty of God.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Ministry
Elisha's refusal to accept Naaman's gift underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and not allowing material gain to influence spiritual service.

Recognition of God's Sovereignty
By refusing the gift, Elisha points to God as the true source of healing and blessing, reminding us to give glory to God alone.

Grace Over Works
Elisha's actions illustrate that God's grace cannot be bought or earned, aligning with the New Testament teaching of salvation by grace through faith.

Witness to the Nations
Naaman's healing and subsequent acknowledgment of the God of Israel demonstrate God's desire to reveal Himself to all nations, encouraging believers to be witnesses of God's power and love.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elisha's response to Naaman's offer challenge our understanding of generosity and gratitude in ministry today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our service to God remains free from the influence of material gain or personal benefit?

3. How does Elisha's refusal to accept a gift reflect the nature of God's grace, and how can this understanding impact our daily lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Naaman's journey from a foreign commander to a believer in the God of Israel, and how can this inform our approach to sharing the Gospel?

5. How can we apply the principle of giving glory to God alone in our personal and communal worship practices?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 17:1
Elijah, Elisha's predecessor, also stands before the LORD, showing a continuity of prophetic ministry and divine authority.

Matthew 10:8
Jesus instructs His disciples to freely give as they have freely received, paralleling Elisha's refusal to accept payment for God's work.

Acts 8:20
Peter rebukes Simon the Sorcerer for trying to buy the gift of God, similar to Elisha's refusal to accept Naaman's gift, emphasizing that God's gifts cannot be purchased.