Topical Bible: Worldliness: Gehazi

◄ Worldliness: Gehazi ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha, is a prominent biblical figure whose actions serve as a cautionary tale against the dangers of worldliness and greed. His account is primarily found in 2 Kings 4-5, where his conduct starkly contrasts with the faithfulness and integrity of his master, Elisha.

Background and Role

Gehazi served as the attendant to Elisha, the successor of Elijah and a powerful prophet in Israel. As Elisha's servant, Gehazi was in a privileged position, witnessing firsthand the miracles and teachings of the prophet. This role required a high level of trust and spiritual discernment, as Gehazi was often involved in Elisha's ministry and interactions with others.

The Incident with Naaman

The most significant account of Gehazi's worldliness is found in 2 Kings 5. Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram, was afflicted with leprosy. Hearing of Elisha's miraculous powers, Naaman sought healing from the prophet. Elisha instructed Naaman to wash in the Jordan River seven times, resulting in his miraculous healing. In gratitude, Naaman offered Elisha gifts, which the prophet refused, demonstrating his commitment to serving God without personal gain.

However, Gehazi, driven by greed and a desire for material wealth, pursued Naaman after he had departed. Gehazi deceitfully claimed that Elisha had sent him to accept gifts on behalf of two young prophets. Naaman, unaware of the deception, willingly gave Gehazi silver and garments. Gehazi's actions were motivated by a worldly desire for wealth and status, disregarding the spiritual principles upheld by Elisha.

Consequences of Gehazi's Actions

Upon returning, Gehazi attempted to conceal his actions from Elisha. However, Elisha, endowed with prophetic insight, confronted Gehazi, revealing that he was aware of the deceit. Elisha declared that Naaman's leprosy would cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever. The judgment pronounced on Gehazi was severe, reflecting the gravity of his sin and the consequences of succumbing to worldliness.

Biblical Lessons

Gehazi's account serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of worldliness and the importance of integrity in the service of God. His actions illustrate how the pursuit of material wealth and personal gain can lead to spiritual downfall. Gehazi's failure to adhere to the principles of honesty and selflessness ultimately resulted in his physical and spiritual affliction.

The account of Gehazi warns believers to guard against the temptations of greed and to prioritize spiritual values over worldly desires. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and integrity in one's relationship with God, as well as the consequences of allowing worldly influences to overshadow spiritual commitments.

Scriptural References

· 2 Kings 4:12-31: Gehazi's role as Elisha's servant and his involvement in the Shunammite woman's account.
· 2 Kings 5:1-27: The account of Naaman's healing and Gehazi's deceitful actions.
· 2 Kings 5:26-27 : "But Elisha asked him, 'Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you? Is this the time to accept money and clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male and female servants? Therefore, the leprosy of Naaman will cling to you and your descendants forever.' And as Gehazi left his presence, he was leprous, as white as snow."

Gehazi's account is a sobering example of how worldliness can corrupt even those in close proximity to God's work, emphasizing the need for vigilance and devotion to spiritual truths.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 5:21-27
So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running after him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, Is all well?
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Sight and Blindness
... by the unusually early rising of Elisha's servant, the young successor of Gehazi. ...
Worldliness, sin, unbelief, sense and its trifles, time and its transitoriness ...
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