Theory question 102
Greed and Its Effects(a) What circumstances led to the dismissal of Gehazi? (b) State three lessons that can be learnt from Gehazi's conduct.
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(a) Elisha healed Naaman of leprosy and refused his gifts (2 Kings 5:14-16).
Gehazi thought his master had spared Naaman and resolved to get something from him (2 Kings 5:20).
He ran after Naaman, who stopped and asked if all was well (2 Kings 5:21).
He lied that Elisha had sent him to ask for a talent of silver and two festal garments for two young prophets (2 Kings 5:22).
Naaman gave him two talents and two garments, carried by servants (2 Kings 5:23).
Gehazi hid them in the house and sent the men away (2 Kings 5:24).
Elisha asked where he had been; he lied, "Your servant went nowhere" (2 Kings 5:25).
Elisha said his spirit had gone with him; was it a time to accept money and goods? (2 Kings 5:26).
Naaman's leprosy would cling to Gehazi and his descendants for ever; he went out a leper white as snow (2 Kings 5:27).
(b) Any three: greed leads to lying and other sins; nothing is hidden from God; greed brings disgrace and punishment; servants should be loyal to their masters; God's gifts should not be turned into business; be content.
Narrate 2 Kings 5:20-27, then three lessons.