GEHAZI'S GREED

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

Gehazi, the servant of the prophet Elisha, witnessed Naaman's healing from leprosy. Instead of being content with Elisha's refusal to accept Naaman's gifts, Gehazi was overcome by greed and decided to pursue Naaman and take something for himself.

The Deception

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? And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments. (2 Kings 5:21-22)

Gehazi concocted a false story, claiming that Elisha had sent him to request a talent of silver and two changes of garments from Naaman. Naaman readily complied, unaware of Gehazi's true intentions.

The Consequences

And he said, Be content, take two. And he urged him, and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of garments, and laid them upon two of his servants; and they bare them before him. And when he came to the tower, he took them from their hand, and bestowed them in the house: and he let the men go, and they departed. But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither. And he said unto him, Went not mine heart with thee, when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and oliveyards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow. (2 Kings 5:23-27)

Elisha, with his prophetic insight, confronted Gehazi and exposed his deception. As a result, Gehazi was struck with the very leprosy that had been healed in Naaman, the Syrian commander.

Lessons and Implications

This incident highlights several important lessons and implications:

1. The danger of greed and the need for spiritual leaders to maintain integrity and purity of heart.
2. The consequences of using one's position in spiritual service for personal gain.
3. The importance of maintaining a clear conscience and not compromising one's values, even when presented with an opportunity for personal enrichment.
4. The sobering reality that sin can have lasting, generational consequences, as seen in Gehazi's leprosy affecting his descendants.
5. The contrast between Gehazi's actions and Elisha's unwavering commitment to God's will, refusing Naaman's gifts.

Relevance for Today

The story of Gehazi's leprosy serves as a cautionary tale for modern believers, particularly those in positions of spiritual leadership or influence. It reminds us of the importance of guarding our hearts against the temptation of greed and the need to maintain a steadfast commitment to serving God and others, rather than ourselves.

Conclusion

The account of Gehazi's leprosy is a powerful illustration of the consequences of greed and the corruption of spiritual service. It challenges us to examine our own motivations and to pursue a life of integrity, honesty, and faithful service to God and His people.
Text by Zach Anderson (zmanderson@gmail.com). Placed in public domain at ultrafree.org. KJV text is used. Feel free to copy and share, free of charge.