2 Kings 5:20
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 (KJV)
Context
The opening chapters of 2 Kings 5 tell how Naaman, commander of the Syrian army, was healed of leprosy by following Elisha’s instruction to wash seven times in the Jordan River. After his cleansing, Naaman returned to Elisha and offered gifts in gratitude, but Elisha refused them. This refusal was not an act of mercy toward Naaman but a deliberate rejection of material reward, showing that the prophet would not profit from God’s power.
Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, watched this exchange and was troubled by his master’s decision. In 2 Kings 5:20 he speaks to himself, resolving to run after Naaman and take something from him. His words reveal a heart set on personal gain, and the oath “as the Lord liveth” is significant: he invokes the name of the Lord to support a selfish and deceptive plan. The verses that follow (2 Kings 5:21-27) show Gehazi lying to Naaman, hiding the goods, and being struck with Naaman’s leprosy when Elisha confronts him.
Meaning
Gehazi’s words expose a spirit of greed and covetousness. He is not content with what God has provided through his master; he desires what Naaman offered, even though Elisha had refused it. The tenth commandment in Exodus 20:17 warns against coveting what belongs to one’s neighbour, and Gehazi’s resolve to take “somewhat of him” runs contrary to that command. His sin is not merely an inward desire but a deliberate plan to act on it.
The phrase “my master” is a respectful title for Elisha, so Gehazi’s disrespect is not in his words but in his actions. He acts behind Elisha’s back, taking gifts that his master had declined. His behaviour shows that a person can serve God’s servant while not truly serving God, and that religious language can be misused to justify sin.
Biblical connections
The contrast between Elisha and Gehazi is central to this passage. Elisha refused Naaman’s gifts to demonstrate that God’s grace cannot be bought, while Gehazi sought to profit from that same grace. This echoes the principle that the work of God must not be used for personal gain. The narrative also connects to the broader biblical warning against greed, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:10, where the love of money is called a root of all kinds of evil.
Application
Gehazi’s example warns us against the dangers of greed and discontentment. We are called to cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude for what God provides, learning to be satisfied with what we have. His behaviour reminds us to uphold integrity, honesty, and righteousness in all areas of life, and to obey God’s commandments, including not coveting what rightfully belongs to others.
Recognising God’s work is another key point. Although the text does not explicitly say that Gehazi failed to recognise Naaman’s miracle, his focus on personal gain rather than rejoicing over the miracle underscores the importance of giving glory to God for the blessings we witness. By acknowledging God’s work, we cultivate a humble and grateful heart.
Finally, trusting in God’s provision is essential. Instead of seeking personal gain, Gehazi should have trusted that God would meet his needs. When we trust in God’s faithfulness, we can rest assured that He will provide according to His perfect plan.
Reflection
2 Kings 5:20 presents a cautionary tale about greed, disobedience, and a lack of gratitude. It reminds us to cultivate contentment, obedience to God’s commandments, and a heart that recognises and glorifies God’s work. May we learn from Gehazi’s negative example and seek to follow the path of righteousness and humility in our own lives.
