2 Kings 7:9

Finally, they said to one another, "We are not doing what is right. Today is a day of good news. If we are silent and wait until morning light, our sin will overtake us. Now, therefore, let us go and tell the king's household."

Study Bible

Finally, they said to one another
This phrase marks a pivotal moment of realization and decision among the lepers. The Hebrew word for "finally" suggests a culmination or a turning point, indicating that after a period of reflection or hesitation, they reached a consensus. This moment of dialogue among the lepers is significant, as it reflects the communal nature of decision-making and the importance of accountability to one another. In a broader scriptural context, it echoes the biblical principle of seeking counsel and wisdom in community, as seen in Proverbs 15:22, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed."

We are not doing what is right
The lepers' acknowledgment of their wrongdoing is a profound moment of moral clarity. The Hebrew root for "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) conveys a sense of uprightness and righteousness. This admission highlights the universal human struggle with ethical choices and the call to align actions with divine standards. It serves as a reminder of the biblical call to justice and righteousness, as emphasized in Micah 6:8, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

This is a day of good news
The phrase "good news" (בְּשׂוֹרָה, besorah) is rich with theological significance, often associated with the proclamation of salvation and deliverance. In the context of 2 Kings 7, it refers to the unexpected abundance and deliverance from famine. This anticipates the New Testament concept of the Gospel, the ultimate "good news" of Jesus Christ's redemptive work. The lepers' realization underscores the responsibility to share the blessings and revelations received, a theme echoed in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

but we are keeping silent
The act of keeping silent in the face of good news is portrayed as a moral failing. Silence here is not merely the absence of speech but a withholding of life-saving information. This highlights the biblical imperative to speak truth and share God's blessings with others, as seen in James 4:17, "If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them." The lepers' silence contrasts with the prophetic call to be a voice for truth and justice.

If we wait until morning light, we will be punished
The urgency in this phrase reflects a deep understanding of accountability and the consequences of inaction. The "morning light" symbolizes a new beginning or revelation, but also a deadline for action. The lepers' fear of punishment underscores the biblical principle that neglecting to act on God's revelations can lead to judgment, as seen in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30). It serves as a reminder of the urgency in responding to God's call.

Now therefore come, let us go and tell the king’s household
This call to action is a decisive moment of obedience and responsibility. The phrase "let us go" (נֵלְכָה, nelekhah) is an invitation to collective action, emphasizing the importance of unity in fulfilling God's purposes. The decision to inform the king's household reflects a recognition of authority and the proper channels for disseminating important news. It aligns with the biblical theme of respecting and working within established structures of authority, as seen in Romans 13:1, "Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established." This action by the lepers becomes a model of faithful stewardship and the transformative power of sharing God's provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Four Lepers
These were the outcasts who discovered the abandoned Aramean camp. Their condition as lepers made them societal outcasts, yet they played a pivotal role in delivering the good news to the city of Samaria.

2. Samaria
The capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, which was under siege by the Arameans, leading to a severe famine in the city.

3. The Arameans
The enemy army that besieged Samaria, causing the famine. They fled their camp due to a divinely induced panic, leaving behind supplies.

4. The King’s Household
The royal family and officials in Samaria who were initially unaware of the miraculous provision available to them.

5. The Siege of Samaria
A critical event where the city was surrounded by the Arameans, leading to desperation and dire conditions among the inhabitants.

Teaching Points

The Responsibility to Share Good News
Just as the lepers realized their duty to share the good news, Christians are called to share the Gospel with others. Keeping the message of salvation to ourselves is not right.

God Uses the Unexpected
God often uses unlikely people and circumstances to fulfill His purposes. The lepers, despite their status, were instrumental in God's plan to save Samaria.

Urgency in Delivering the Message
The lepers understood the urgency of their message. Similarly, there is an urgency in sharing the Gospel, as people are in spiritual need.

Trust in God’s Provision
The miraculous provision for Samaria reminds believers to trust in God's ability to provide in seemingly impossible situations.

Repentance and Action
Recognizing wrongdoing and taking corrective action is vital. The lepers' decision to act upon their realization is a model for repentance and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How do the actions of the lepers challenge us in our approach to sharing the Gospel with others?

2. In what ways can we see God using unexpected people or situations in our lives to accomplish His purposes?

3. What are some areas in our lives where we might be "keeping silent" about the good news, and how can we change that?

4. How does the account of the lepers encourage us to trust in God's provision during difficult times?

5. Reflect on a time when you realized you were not doing what was right. How did you respond, and what can you learn from the lepers' example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 52:7
This verse speaks of the beauty of those who bring good news, paralleling the lepers' role in sharing the news of salvation and provision.

Luke 4:18-19
Jesus speaks of bringing good news to the poor, echoing the lepers' announcement of deliverance to the starving city.

Matthew 5:14-16
The call to be the light of the world and not hide it, similar to the lepers' realization that they must share the good news.