Topical Encyclopedia
Gehazi, a servant of the prophet Elisha, is a prominent biblical figure whose account serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of greed and deceit. His narrative is primarily found in
2 Kings 4:12-37 and
2 Kings 5:20-27. Gehazi's actions and their repercussions illustrate the afflictions that befall those who turn away from righteousness.
Background and RoleGehazi served as the attendant to Elisha, the successor of Elijah and a powerful prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Gehazi's role was significant, as he was entrusted with assisting Elisha in his prophetic duties. This position provided him with a unique opportunity to witness God's power and the miracles performed through Elisha.
The Incident with NaamanThe most notable account of Gehazi's wrongdoing is found in the account of Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram, who suffered from leprosy. Naaman sought healing from Elisha, who instructed him to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Upon following these instructions, Naaman was miraculously healed (
2 Kings 5:1-14).
In gratitude, Naaman offered Elisha gifts, which the prophet refused, emphasizing that the healing was an act of God and not a transaction (
2 Kings 5:15-16). However, Gehazi, driven by greed, pursued Naaman and deceitfully requested gifts on behalf of Elisha, claiming they were for two young prophets (
2 Kings 5:20-22).
The Consequences of DeceitGehazi's actions did not go unnoticed. Upon returning, Elisha confronted him, revealing that he was aware of Gehazi's deceit through divine insight. Elisha declared that the leprosy that had afflicted Naaman would now cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever (
2 Kings 5:25-27): "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."
Moral and Spiritual ImplicationsGehazi's account is a stark reminder of the spiritual and physical afflictions that can result from sin. His greed led him to lie and misuse his position, ultimately resulting in a severe and lasting punishment. Gehazi's leprosy symbolized the spiritual corruption that had taken root in his heart, serving as a visible manifestation of his inner moral decay.
The narrative underscores the biblical principle that God is just and that sin carries consequences. Gehazi's affliction serves as a warning to remain faithful and honest, especially when entrusted with spiritual responsibilities. His account is a testament to the importance of integrity and the dangers of allowing worldly desires to overshadow one's commitment to God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
2 Kings 5:27The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall stick to you, and to your seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The Way of Life and the Way of Death.
... was stoned to death; [3376] and Gehazi, who stole ... Nor shalt thou learn wicked arts;
for all these ... shall be known." [3417] Receive the afflictions that fall upon ...
/.../various/constitutions of the holy apostles/sec i on the two ways.htm
On the Article, and in one Holy Ghost, the Comforter, which Spake ...
... against the Spirit [1980] , and the wicked Valentinians [1981 ... city, saying that bonds
and afflictions await me ... healed the leprosy of Naaman, Gehazi received the ...
/.../cyril/lectures of s cyril of jerusalem/lecture xvi on the article.htm
A Wise Desire
... this is the son!" There were Gehazi and the ... the preacher"and I have been wicked enough
to ... to your mercies, your employments, and your afflictions, say""Lord ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/a wise desire.htm
The Covenant of Grace
... Wicked men have mercies by Providence, not by virtue of a covenant ... As Naaman said
to Gehazi, Take two talents,' 2 Kings 5:z3 ... Afflictions add to the saints, glory ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/a body of divinity/1 the covenant of grace.htm
The Great Duty of Family Religion
... where will such monstrous profane and wicked governors appear ... for; some common crosses
and afflictions, which they ... Elisha to have a treacherous Gehazi, or David ...
/.../whitefield/selected sermons of george whitefield/the great duty of family.htm
The Second Commandment
... had been sad to have been one of Gehazi's children, who ... The wicked pretend to love
God, but hate and persecute ... not run into if we had not afflictions to humble ...
/.../watson/the ten commandments/2 2 the second commandment.htm
Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... From this little wicket-gate, and from the way thereto, hath this wicked man turned
thee, to the bringing of thee almost to destruction; hate, therefore, his ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm
Resources
What is lacking in Christ's afflictions (Colossians 1:24)? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view psychotherapy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Joseph? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance •
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