Commentary on 2 Kings 5:19
Verse Context: 2 Kings 5:19 reads, “And he said unto him, Go in peace. So he departed from him a little way.” This verse concludes the narrative of Naaman’s healing by the prophet Elisha and serves as a crucial point in understanding the implications of faith, grace, and the responses to divine intervention.
Historical Background
Naaman’s Background: Naaman was a commander of the Syrian army, an esteemed man with great honor, but he was also a leper. His story illustrates the intersection of faith across cultural and national boundaries. The healing signifies not only physical restoration but also spiritual renewal.
Elisha’s Role: Elisha, the prophet of God, represents divine authority and the mediator between God and man. His instructions for Naaman to wash in the Jordan River were simple but required faith and obedience.
Theological Insights
Peace as a Divine Gift: The farewell “Go in peace” represents the complete healing that Naaman experienced not just in body but in spirit. It signifies the peace of God that transcends understanding (Philippians 4:7), a state of wholeness that only God can bestow.
- Peace with God: Naaman’s acceptance of God’s grace symbolizes a newfound relationship with the Lord.
- Transformation through Faith: The command to “go in peace” indicates Naaman’s transformation; his former identity as a leper is replaced by a new status as a follower of God.
Practical Application
Embracing Faith: Naaman’s journey is a reminder of how God operates in the lives of those who are humble enough to seek Him. Pastors and theologians encourage believers to step out in faith like Naaman, who was initially hesitant but ultimately obedient.
- Responding to God’s Call: Each person's encounter with God requires a response. Naaman had to act on faith to receive healing.
- Obedience Over Understanding: Naaman's initial struggle with the command highlights that understanding God’s methods is not as important as obeying His will.
Insights from Commentators
Matthew Henry: In his commentary, Henry emphasizes the grace of God extending beyond Israel’s borders. He notes that Naaman’s healing was an indication of God’s mercy for the Gentiles, showing how the Gospel's reach was foreshadowed even in the Old Testament.
Albert Barnes: Barnes highlights the importance of the phrase “Go in peace,” which indicates the certainty and completeness of Naaman’s healing. It is not just a farewell; it is a blessing that underscores the peace brought forth through true faith.
Adam Clarke: Clarke elaborates on the significance of Elisha’s role in providing assurance. He points out that the instruction to depart in peace reiterates the importance of understanding that life in God is characterized by tranquility in the heart, a gift that follows forgiveness and restoration.
Conclusion
2 Kings 5:19 holds profound significance for believers. It serves as a reminder of God’s willingness to heal and restore anyone who seeks Him with a humble heart. In a world filled with turmoil, the message of peace that Elisha gives to Naaman resonates deeply, reminding pastors, students, and theologians alike of the importance of faith in God’s redemptive plan.
