Topical Bible: Falsehood: Gehazi, when he Ran After Naaman

◄ Falsehood: Gehazi, when he Ran After Naaman ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Context and Background

Gehazi was the servant of Elisha, the prophet, during the time of the divided kingdom of Israel. Elisha, known for his miracles and prophetic ministry, succeeded Elijah and played a significant role in guiding the nation of Israel back to the worship of Yahweh. Gehazi, as Elisha's servant, had the privilege of witnessing many of these miraculous events, including the healing of Naaman, a commander of the army of the king of Aram.

The Incident

The account of Gehazi's falsehood is found in 2 Kings 5:20-27. Naaman, afflicted with leprosy, sought healing from Elisha after being directed by a captive Israelite girl. 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, emphasizing that the healing was an act of God and not to be profited from.

However, Gehazi, driven by greed, saw an opportunity for personal gain. He pursued Naaman after Elisha had dismissed him, fabricating a account to obtain gifts. Gehazi falsely claimed that Elisha had sent him to request a talent of silver and two sets of clothing for two young men from the company of the prophets. Naaman, eager to show gratitude, gave Gehazi two talents of silver and two sets of clothing, exceeding the request.

Biblical Text

The Berean Standard Bible records Gehazi's deceitful actions: "But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, 'Look, my master has spared this Aramean Naaman, while not receiving from his hands what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him.'" (2 Kings 5:20).

Consequences of Falsehood

Upon returning, Gehazi hid the gifts and presented himself before Elisha, who questioned his whereabouts. Gehazi lied again, claiming he had not gone anywhere. Elisha, endowed with prophetic insight, confronted Gehazi with the truth, revealing that his spirit had accompanied Gehazi during the deceitful encounter with Naaman. Elisha declared that Naaman's leprosy would cling to Gehazi and his descendants forever, a severe judgment for his falsehood and greed.

Moral and Theological Implications

Gehazi's actions serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of falsehood and greed. His deceit not only brought physical affliction upon himself but also spiritual and moral corruption. Gehazi's account underscores the importance of integrity and the consequences of sin, particularly for those in positions of service and trust. The narrative highlights the principle that God's gifts and miracles are not commodities to be exploited for personal gain.

Lessons for Believers

For believers, Gehazi's account is a reminder to uphold truth and integrity, recognizing that God sees beyond outward actions to the intentions of the heart. It calls for a life of honesty, especially in service to God and others, and warns against the temptation to use spiritual privileges for selfish purposes. The account of Gehazi challenges believers to trust in God's provision and to resist the lure of materialism, maintaining a focus on the eternal rather than the temporal.

Nave's Topical Index

2 Kings 5:20-24
But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master has spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, as the LORD lives, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.
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