Commentary on 2 Kings 5:20

Verse Context: 2 Kings 5:20 says, "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."

Overview

This verse introduces a significant event in the life of Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. It marks a transition from the miraculous healing of Naaman to a moral failure driven by greed and deception. The actions of Gehazi in this narrative become a case study on the perils of discontentment and self-serving ambition.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry highlights the distinction between Gehazi and his master, Elisha. He notes that while Elisha displayed humility and obedience to God by refusing gifts from Naaman, Gehazi's covetousness led him to pursue material gain. Henry emphasizes that Gehazi's actions were not only rooted in greed but also exhibited a lack of faith in God’s provision.

Henry further remarks on the implications of Gehazi's deceitful intent. By claiming that his master wished to receive gifts from Naaman, Gehazi was not only lying but also misrepresenting the spiritual standards upheld by Elisha. Gehazi's actions exemplify how a servant of God can fall into temptation and lead others astray.

Albert Barnes' Commentary

Albert Barnes elaborates on Gehazi's character, portraying him as one who was deeply flawed, despite his role as a servant to one of God's prophets. Barnes suggests that Gehazi was driven by a desire to self-aggrandize; he saw an opportunity to elevate his status through wealth obtained from Naaman.

Barnes emphasizes that Gehazi’s decision to pursue materialism over spiritual integrity shows a stark contrast to Elisha's exemplary piety. He warns that Gehazi’s greed is a cautionary tale for all believers about the dangers of wealth and the temptation to compromise one’s character for personal gain.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke points out the duality of Gehazi’s nature. He served a powerful prophet yet allowed his desires to overrule his service to God. Clarke notes that Gehazi rationalized his actions by deceiving himself, thinking that taking from Naaman, who had just been healed, would not be seen as wrong. This form of reasoning reflects a disconnection from the holiness required in ministry.

Clarke also discusses God's providence as being sufficient beyond material wealth. He argues that Gehazi’s choice was indicative of an underlying spiritual malaise; it showed a lack of trust in God’s provision and a failure to understand the blessings that come not from material possessions but from spiritual alignment with God's will.

Theological Implications

• The Nature of Greed: Gehazi's greed offers a strong warning against letting desires for wealth overshadow spiritual integrity. Each believer is called to examine their own motives, especially when faced with opportunities that could tempt them towards material gain.
• Consequences of Dishonesty: This verse illustrates that dishonest actions can lead to dire consequences, as seen in the subsequent narrative where Gehazi faces judgment for his deception. It reminds theologians and pastors of the importance of transparency and truthfulness in all dealings.
• God's Provision: Elisha's refusal to accept gifts from Naaman signifies a powerful lesson in reliance on God. Substance and materials are transient, while spiritual abundance is eternal. The implication is that true service to God does not seek human reward.
• Role of Servants: Gehazi's failure serves as a reminder to those in ministry about the sanctity and importance of their roles. Service to God should not be mingled with personal agendas, reflecting the importance of integrity in pastoral and spiritual leadership.

Practical Applications

For pastors and lay leaders:

• Regularly assess motives in ministry to ensure they align with God’s call rather than personal ambition.
• Teach congregations about the pitfalls of materialism and the blessings of spiritual richness.
• Promote an environment of accountability and transparency within church leadership.

For students and scholars:

• Delve deeply into character studies of biblical figures like Gehazi to extract ethical and moral lessons applicable to contemporary contexts.
• Engage in exegesis that emphasizes the implications of individual decisions on broader theological themes such as integrity, providence, and wealth.
• Analyze the dichotomy between obeying God’s commands and the human tendency towards self-interest.

Conclusion

2 Kings 5:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of greed, dishonesty, and the moral compromises that can be made in the pursuit of material gain. It calls the faithful to a higher standard of living—a life committed to integrity, honesty, and reliance on God’s provision. The lessons from Gehazi’s failure are timeless and encourage both reflection and action in our own spiritual journeys.