Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative found in
2 Kings 5, the account of Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Syria, provides a profound example of intercession. Naaman was a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master, the king of Syria, because through him the LORD had given victory to Syria. However, Naaman suffered from leprosy, a condition that not only affected his health but also his social standing.
The account begins with a young Israelite girl, taken captive during a Syrian raid, who served Naaman's wife. She expressed her faith in the prophet Elisha's ability to heal Naaman, saying, "If only my master would go to the prophet who is in Samaria, he would cure him of his leprosy" (
2 Kings 5:3). This statement set in motion a series of intercessory actions that would lead to Naaman's healing.
Upon hearing the girl's suggestion, Naaman approached the king of Syria, who valued Naaman highly and was willing to intercede on his behalf. The king of Syria wrote a letter to the king of Israel, demonstrating his authority and concern for Naaman's well-being. The letter read, "I have sent my servant Naaman to you, so that you may cure him of his leprosy" (
2 Kings 5:6). This act of intercession by the king of Syria highlights the importance of advocacy and the use of influence to seek the welfare of others.
The king of Israel, upon receiving the letter, was distressed, fearing that the request was a pretext for conflict, as he exclaimed, "Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man sends a man to me to heal him of his leprosy?" (
2 Kings 5:7). However, Elisha the prophet intervened, instructing the king to send Naaman to him, so that Naaman would know there was a prophet in Israel.
Elisha's involvement in the narrative underscores the divine orchestration behind the intercession. Naaman, following Elisha's instructions to wash in the Jordan River seven times, was miraculously healed of his leprosy. This healing not only restored Naaman's health but also led to his acknowledgment of the God of Israel, as he declared, "Now I know that there is no God in all the earth except in Israel" (
2 Kings 5:15).
The intercession of the king of Syria for Naaman serves as a testament to the power of advocacy and the role of influential figures in seeking the good of others. It also illustrates the broader theme of God's sovereignty and grace, working through unexpected channels to bring about healing and revelation. The narrative invites reflection on the ways in which God uses individuals, regardless of their background or status, to fulfill His purposes and demonstrate His mercy.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Kings 5:6-8And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come to you, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may recover him of his leprosy.
Nave's Topical Index
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The Christian Described
... when Elisha was sought for by the king of Syria, he durst ... seat with his blood, there
ever living to make intercession for them ... Will you rebel against the king? ...
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Resources
What is Jesus' High Priestly Prayer? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about prayerlessness? | GotQuestions.orgAre apparitions of Mary, such as Lady Fatima, true messages from God? | GotQuestions.orgIntercession: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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