gehazi missing the mark

SDA Quarterly SDA Quarterly

December 11-17, 2010December 11-17, 2010

Material PresentedMaterial Presented• The material presented is additional The material presented is additional

study which study which needs sincere prayerneeds sincere prayer, the , the Holy SpiritHoly Spirit and the and the Word of GodWord of God. Please . Please remember these scriptures: remember these scriptures:

• ““It is better to trust in the LORD than to It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.” (Psa.118.8)put confidence in man.” (Psa.118.8)

• ““Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.” (Jer.17.5)departeth from the LORD.” (Jer.17.5)

Blessed KJV 1611 BibleBlessed KJV 1611 Bible

• ““It is the It is the firstfirst and and highest dutyhighest duty of every of every rational being to rational being to learn from the Scriptures learn from the Scriptures what is truthwhat is truth, and , and then to walk in the lightthen to walk in the light and and encourage others to follow his encourage others to follow his exampleexample. We . We should day by day study the should day by day study the Bible diligentlyBible diligently, , weighing every thoughtweighing every thought and and comparing scripture with scripturecomparing scripture with scripture. . With divine help we are to form our With divine help we are to form our opinions for ourselves as we are to answer opinions for ourselves as we are to answer for ourselves before Godfor ourselves before God.” (GC.598.002).” (GC.598.002)

UnwarnedUnwarned

• ““When God has given us light When God has given us light showing the dangers before usshowing the dangers before us, , how how can we stand clear in His sight if we can we stand clear in His sight if we neglect to put forth every effort in neglect to put forth every effort in our power to bring it before the our power to bring it before the peoplepeople? ? Can we be content to leave Can we be content to leave them to meet this momentous issue them to meet this momentous issue unwarnedunwarned?” (5T.712.002) ?” (5T.712.002)

WB = Worker's Bulletin, 1902 WorWB = Worker's Bulletin, 1902 Words of Admonitionds of Admonition

Bible Its Own ExpositorBible Its Own Expositor• ““In every place In every place God is working to bring men God is working to bring men

to a knowledge of Godto a knowledge of God and and His His righteousnessrighteousness. . He speaks to them in His He speaks to them in His WordWord. . The Bible is the key which unlocks the The Bible is the key which unlocks the mysteries which it is essential for human mysteries which it is essential for human beings to understand in order to know what beings to understand in order to know what they must do to gain eternal lifethey must do to gain eternal life. The . The Bible Bible is its own expositoris its own expositor. . Its bright beams are to Its bright beams are to shine in all parts of the world that sin may shine in all parts of the world that sin may be revealedbe revealed. . The Bible is a chart pointing The Bible is a chart pointing out the way-marks of truthout the way-marks of truth. . Those who are Those who are acquainted with this chart will be enabled to acquainted with this chart will be enabled to tread with certainty the path of duty tread with certainty the path of duty wherever they may be called to gowherever they may be called to go.” .” (WB.1902-09-09.011) (WB.1902-09-09.011)

Avoid ControversyAvoid Controversy• While Christians are not to sacrifice one While Christians are not to sacrifice one

principle of truthprinciple of truth, , they should avoid they should avoid controversy whenever it is possible to do controversy whenever it is possible to do soso. (DA.434.004). (DA.434.004)

• Your Your solemn challengesolemn challenge is “ is “study to show study to show thyself approved unto Godthyself approved unto God, a , a workman workman that needeth not to be ashamedthat needeth not to be ashamed, , rightly rightly dividing the word of truthdividing the word of truth.” 2Tim.2.15. .” 2Tim.2.15.

• May God Abundantly Bless Each May God Abundantly Bless Each

StudentStudent

Memory Verse KJV & nivMemory Verse KJV & niv

• Deut.13.4Deut.13.4

• YeYe shall walk after the LORD your Godshall walk after the LORD your God, and , and fear fear himhim, and , and keep his commandmentskeep his commandments, and , and obey obey his voicehis voice, and , and ye shall serve himye shall serve him, and , and cleave cleave unto himunto him..

• “ “It is the Lord your God you must follow, and It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him” (NIV)obey him; serve him and hold fast to him” (NIV)

Gehazi Hebrew MeaningGehazi Hebrew Meaning• GehaziGehazi ( (ge\®-ha\ge\®-ha\''z �z �). [Heb. ). [Heb. GeÆchazéÆGeÆchazéÆ, meaning , meaning

uncertainuncertain.] Elishas servant. He appears first in .] Elishas servant. He appears first in favorable light when he showed sympathy with a favorable light when he showed sympathy with a childless Shunammite woman (2 Ki 4:14), and when childless Shunammite woman (2 Ki 4:14), and when he showed zeal for the honor of the prophet, who he he showed zeal for the honor of the prophet, who he thought was not being shown the proper respect (v thought was not being shown the proper respect (v 27). Later he is pictured as covetous and lying. To 27). Later he is pictured as covetous and lying. To Naaman, the Syrian commander whom Elisha had Naaman, the Syrian commander whom Elisha had healed of leprosy, he made it appear that the healed of leprosy, he made it appear that the prophet had broken his word. As punishment the prophet had broken his word. As punishment the leprosy of Naaman fell on him (ch 5:20–27). His leprosy of Naaman fell on him (ch 5:20–27). His meeting with the king of Israel after a seven-year meeting with the king of Israel after a seven-year famine (ch 8:4–6) seems to have occurred before he famine (ch 8:4–6) seems to have occurred before he was punished with perpetual leprosy.was punished with perpetual leprosy.– Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary, Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary,

(Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1979.Association) 1979.

GreetingsGreetings• Greetings.Greetings. Many forms of greetings are recorded in Many forms of greetings are recorded in

the Biblethe Bible, such as, “God be gracious unto thee” (Gen , such as, “God be gracious unto thee” (Gen 43:29); “The Lord be with you” (Ruth 2:4); “Peace 43:29); “The Lord be with you” (Ruth 2:4); “Peace be to this house” (Lk 10:5). Greetings frequently be to this house” (Lk 10:5). Greetings frequently took the form of, or were accompanied by, kisses took the form of, or were accompanied by, kisses (Gen 48:10; Ex 18:7; etc.). Customarily the cheek, (Gen 48:10; Ex 18:7; etc.). Customarily the cheek, forehead, beard, hands, or feet were kissed. In the forehead, beard, hands, or feet were kissed. In the NT the term “holy kiss” is sometimes found, NT the term “holy kiss” is sometimes found, indicating a token of Christian affection among indicating a token of Christian affection among believers (Rom 16:16; 1 Cor 16:20; 1 Th 5:26). Judas believers (Rom 16:16; 1 Cor 16:20; 1 Th 5:26). Judas used a kiss to betray the Saviour (Mt. 26:49; cf. Prov used a kiss to betray the Saviour (Mt. 26:49; cf. Prov 27:6). Paul’s letters abound with greetings from 27:6). Paul’s letters abound with greetings from himself and those with him to friends and fellow himself and those with him to friends and fellow laborers in the churches addressed (Rom 16:3–16; 1 laborers in the churches addressed (Rom 16:3–16; 1 Cor 16:20; 2 Cor 13:12; Php 4:21; 1 Pe 5:14; 3 Jn 14; Cor 16:20; 2 Cor 13:12; Php 4:21; 1 Pe 5:14; 3 Jn 14; etc.). etc.). – Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary, Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary,

(Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1979.Association) 1979.

Greetings (cont’d)Greetings (cont’d)• Greetings…Greetings… The scribes and Pharisees fell under The scribes and Pharisees fell under

condemnation for their egocentric love of “greetings condemnation for their egocentric love of “greetings in the markets,” which were doubtless involved and in the markets,” which were doubtless involved and time consuming, as Oriental salutations sometimes time consuming, as Oriental salutations sometimes are (Mt 23:7; Lk 11:43). are (Mt 23:7; Lk 11:43). It was probably because of the It was probably because of the time involved in ancient greetings that Elishatime involved in ancient greetings that Elisha, , sending sending his servant Gehazi to lay a staff upon the dead son of his servant Gehazi to lay a staff upon the dead son of the Shunammite womanthe Shunammite woman, , directed him to salute no directed him to salute no oneone (2 Ki 4:29). Similarly, when Christ sent out the (2 Ki 4:29). Similarly, when Christ sent out the Seventy He told them to “Seventy He told them to “salute no man by the waysalute no man by the way” ” (Lk 10:4), (Lk 10:4), probably to impress upon them a sense of probably to impress upon them a sense of urgency in their preaching of the gospelurgency in their preaching of the gospel. Elsewhere . Elsewhere Christ admonished His followers not to be exclusive in Christ admonished His followers not to be exclusive in their greetings, but that all, Jew and Gentile, friend their greetings, but that all, Jew and Gentile, friend and enemy, were to be regarded as brethren (Mt and enemy, were to be regarded as brethren (Mt 5:43–47).5:43–47).– Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary, Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary,

(Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1979.1979.

Stand Before the LordStand Before the Lord

• Stand before the Lord. (Deuteronomy Stand before the Lord. (Deuteronomy 10:8)10:8) This is a phrase that denotes This is a phrase that denotes consecrated devotion to the Lord’s serviceconsecrated devotion to the Lord’s service, , in public ministry. They ministered to God as in public ministry. They ministered to God as court officials did before a king. The priests court officials did before a king. The priests were responsible to God. It is used also of were responsible to God. It is used also of the prophets as ministers of God (1 Kings the prophets as ministers of God (1 Kings 17:1; 18:15). 17:1; 18:15). It is used also of the It is used also of the attendance of Gehazi upon the prophet attendance of Gehazi upon the prophet ElishaElisha (2 Kings 5:25). (2 Kings 5:25).– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.

2 Kings 4:312 Kings 4:31

• 31. Neither voice, nor hearing.31. Neither voice, nor hearing. (2 Kings 4:31) (2 Kings 4:31) These words imply that Gehazi had expected God to These words imply that Gehazi had expected God to honor the placing of Elisha’s staff upon the ladhonor the placing of Elisha’s staff upon the lad. . Why Why life was not restored we are not toldlife was not restored we are not told. Perhaps if the . Perhaps if the woman had had faith that the Lord would answer her woman had had faith that the Lord would answer her through the agency of Elisha’s staff and his servant through the agency of Elisha’s staff and his servant Gehazi, the answer would have come that way. Or Gehazi, the answer would have come that way. Or perhaps there was some weakness in the life of Gehazi perhaps there was some weakness in the life of Gehazi that prevented the Lord from using him as a channel that prevented the Lord from using him as a channel for the performance of His wonderful deeds of powerfor the performance of His wonderful deeds of power. . It is It is not given man to know the reasons why the Lord not given man to know the reasons why the Lord does or does not choose to work in certain waysdoes or does not choose to work in certain ways..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Publishing Association) 1978.


• 20. But Gehazi.20. But Gehazi. The Biblical writer has just given a The Biblical writer has just given a beautiful picture of an important Syrian official beautiful picture of an important Syrian official leaving Israel as a new convert to Jehovah, with joy leaving Israel as a new convert to Jehovah, with joy and peace in his heart, healed of leprosy and and peace in his heart, healed of leprosy and converted in spirit. But the scene changes abruptly converted in spirit. But the scene changes abruptly with the words, “But Gehazi.” with the words, “But Gehazi.” When God gives men When God gives men happiness and peacehappiness and peace, Satan , Satan attempts to introduce attempts to introduce troubletrouble. . Into every symphony he seeks to introduce Into every symphony he seeks to introduce a discordant notea discordant note. . Here the servant of the prophet Here the servant of the prophet allows himself to become a tool in the enemy’s allows himself to become a tool in the enemy’s hand to all but spoil the picture so beautifully hand to all but spoil the picture so beautifully drawndrawn..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• Hath spared Naaman.Hath spared Naaman. These words reveal These words reveal the thoughts and spirit of Gehazithe thoughts and spirit of Gehazi. He . He thought of Naaman not as a new convert to thought of Naaman not as a new convert to God but as a soldier from an enemy landGod but as a soldier from an enemy land. . The The Syrians had spoiled IsraelSyrians had spoiled Israel; ; why should why should an Israelite now spare one of theman Israelite now spare one of them? ? Gehazi Gehazi probably thought of his master Elisha as probably thought of his master Elisha as weak and simple-minded in refusing to take weak and simple-minded in refusing to take from Naaman the gift he was so willing to from Naaman the gift he was so willing to givegive..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist



• As the Lord liveth.As the Lord liveth. These words are here a These words are here a profane oathprofane oath, , uttered by a man who is trying uttered by a man who is trying to persuade himself that he is doing to persuade himself that he is doing something in the service of God when he something in the service of God when he knows full well that he is doing wrongknows full well that he is doing wrong. . Blinded Blinded by avariceby avarice, , Gehazi will take pay for services he Gehazi will take pay for services he did not performdid not perform, , from a man from whom Elisha from a man from whom Elisha believed he should accept nothingbelieved he should accept nothing..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• 21. Lighted down.21. Lighted down. This was an Oriental mark of This was an Oriental mark of respectrespect. . Gehazi wasGehazi was, , after allafter all, , only the servant of only the servant of ElishaElisha, and , and Naaman was under no obligations to Naaman was under no obligations to show him this uncalled-for courtesyshow him this uncalled-for courtesy. But . But it indicates it indicates the strong feeling of gratitude that welled within his the strong feeling of gratitude that welled within his breastbreast. . Naaman had conquered his natural pride and Naaman had conquered his natural pride and animosityanimosity, and , and now the commander of the armies of now the commander of the armies of SyriaSyria, , which had been victorious over Israelwhich had been victorious over Israel, , descends from his chariot that he may deal on terms descends from his chariot that he may deal on terms of equality with the servant of a Hebrew prophetof equality with the servant of a Hebrew prophet..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• Is all well?Is all well? Naaman was startled as Naaman was startled as he saw Gehazi runninghe saw Gehazi running, and , and must must have thought that some ill had have thought that some ill had befallen the prophetbefallen the prophet or or that some that some other calamity had occurredother calamity had occurred..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary, Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Publishing Association) 1978.


• 22. My master hath sent me.22. My master hath sent me. Gehazi now Gehazi now sought to cloak his avarice with a liesought to cloak his avarice with a lie. . Elisha Elisha was to be made responsible for the servant’s was to be made responsible for the servant’s greedgreed. . The worthy nameThe worthy name of the unselfish of the unselfish prophet was to be defamed by the cupidity of prophet was to be defamed by the cupidity of his unworthy servanthis unworthy servant. . One sin rarely stands One sin rarely stands alonealone, , for evil always leads the way to more for evil always leads the way to more and greater eviland greater evil..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• Two young men.Two young men. Gehazi did not wish to be Gehazi did not wish to be recognized as displaying his greedrecognized as displaying his greed. . RatherRather, , he he would play the part of a friend concerned would play the part of a friend concerned about two young men in needabout two young men in need. . Would not Would not Naaman be interested in them to the extent Naaman be interested in them to the extent of assisting them with one of his ten talents of of assisting them with one of his ten talents of silver and two of his ten changes of raimentsilver and two of his ten changes of raiment??– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• 23. Be content.23. Be content. The meaning is, The meaning is, “please,” or, ““please,” or, “kindly consent tokindly consent to,” ,” take not take not one talent but twoone talent but two. The . The grateful Naaman grateful Naaman would give double that which Gehazi had would give double that which Gehazi had asked forasked for, and , and he would also send two of he would also send two of his servants to bear the burden to the his servants to bear the burden to the prophet’s homeprophet’s home..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist



• 24. The tower.24. The tower. Heb. Heb. ÔophelÔophel, a “mound” or “hill”; , a “mound” or “hill”; often the structure on the hill whether a watchtower, a often the structure on the hill whether a watchtower, a house, a fort, or a lookout point. Elisha had his home house, a fort, or a lookout point. Elisha had his home in Samaria, probably on an eminence from which he in Samaria, probably on an eminence from which he could see men approaching afar (see ch. 6:30–32). could see men approaching afar (see ch. 6:30–32). But But on this occasion Gehazion this occasion Gehazi, , returning with the two talents returning with the two talents of silverof silver, , did not wish to be seen by his masterdid not wish to be seen by his master. So the . So the hill here referred to seems to have been one between hill here referred to seems to have been one between the home of Elisha and the place where Gehazi the home of Elisha and the place where Gehazi overtook Naaman, which interrupted the view. At that overtook Naaman, which interrupted the view. At that place Naaman’s servants were dismissed and Gehazi place Naaman’s servants were dismissed and Gehazi received the treasure and placed it in hiding.received the treasure and placed it in hiding.– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible


OphelOphel• OphelOphel ( (o\o\''fe¬lfe¬l). [Heb. ). [Heb. ÔOphelÔOphel, “knoll.”], “knoll.”]• 1.1. A part of Jerusalem. From Neh 3:26, 27 and A part of Jerusalem. From Neh 3:26, 27 and

several statements of Josephus (several statements of Josephus (WarWarii. 17. 9; v. 4. 1, 2; ii. 17. 9; v. 4. 1, 2; v. 6. 1; vi. 6. 3) it seems certain that Ophel was part of v. 6. 1; vi. 6. 3) it seems certain that Ophel was part of the eastern hill of Jerusalem, an area immediately the eastern hill of Jerusalem, an area immediately south of the Temple. Jerusalem From 20 B.C. to A.D. south of the Temple. Jerusalem From 20 B.C. to A.D. 70; see The Walls of Jerusalem in Ancient and Modern 70; see The Walls of Jerusalem in Ancient and Modern Times. King Jotham did some building on the wall of Times. King Jotham did some building on the wall of Ophel, and Manasseh increased its height (2 Chr 27:3; Ophel, and Manasseh increased its height (2 Chr 27:3; 33:14). The Nethinim, or Temple servants, had their 33:14). The Nethinim, or Temple servants, had their residence in this quarter (Neh 3:26; 11:21). The residence in this quarter (Neh 3:26; 11:21). The Hebrew term is found in Mic 4:8 as part of “Zion” and is Hebrew term is found in Mic 4:8 as part of “Zion” and is rendered “strong hold” in the KJV and “hill” in the RSV; rendered “strong hold” in the KJV and “hill” in the RSV; also in Is 32:14, where it is rendered “forts” in the KJV also in Is 32:14, where it is rendered “forts” in the KJV and “hill” in the RSV, and where its destruction is and “hill” in the RSV, and where its destruction is predicted.predicted.– Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary, Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Dictionary,


OphelOphel• OphelOphel ( (o\o\''fe¬lfe¬l). [Heb. ). [Heb. ÔOphelÔOphel, “knoll.”], “knoll.”]

• 2.2. An An ÔophelÔophel is also mentioned at is also mentioned at Samaria (2 Ki 5:24, rendered “tower” in Samaria (2 Ki 5:24, rendered “tower” in the KJV, “hill” in the RSV), the KJV, “hill” in the RSV), as the place as the place where Gehazi deposited the gifts received where Gehazi deposited the gifts received from Naamanfrom Naaman. King Mesha of Moab says . King Mesha of Moab says that he built the wall of that he built the wall of ÔophelÔophel in one of in one of his cities (*Moabite Stone, line 22, usually his cities (*Moabite Stone, line 22, usually rendered “citadel” in English translations).rendered “citadel” in English translations).– Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible Horn, Siegfried H., Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Dictionary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Dictionary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1979.Herald Publishing Association) 1979.


• 25. Went no whither.25. Went no whither. To shield himself To shield himself from his master’s censure, from his master’s censure, Gehazi now Gehazi now resorted to another falsehoodresorted to another falsehood. Again . Again sin led sin led to sinto sin, and , and one lie to anotherone lie to another. The . The trail of evil trail of evil has no endhas no end. . He who embarks upon a course He who embarks upon a course of deception will inevitably find himself of deception will inevitably find himself engaging in deception to cover up deceptionengaging in deception to cover up deception..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist

Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• 26. Went not mine heart?26. Went not mine heart? The Lord had The Lord had revealed to Elisha exactly what had taken revealed to Elisha exactly what had taken placeplace, , how Gehazi had run out after how Gehazi had run out after NaamanNaaman, , how he had lied to him and had how he had lied to him and had succeeded in securing the coveted giftsucceeded in securing the coveted gift, and , and how it had been hiddenhow it had been hidden. Man may lie to his . Man may lie to his fellow men, but fellow men, but he cannot lie to Godhe cannot lie to God. . Deeds Deeds of evil may be hidden from the eyes of man, of evil may be hidden from the eyes of man, but the eyes of the Lord see allbut the eyes of the Lord see all (see Heb. (see Heb. 4:13).4:13).– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist


2 Kings 5:262 Kings 5:26• It is a time to receive money?It is a time to receive money? What a terrible What a terrible

rebuke the words of Elisha brought home to the rebuke the words of Elisha brought home to the heart of his servant! A notable miracle had been heart of his servant! A notable miracle had been performed. performed. The commander of the armies of Syria The commander of the armies of Syria had been brought to believe in God and to rejoice in had been brought to believe in God and to rejoice in his new-found faithhis new-found faith. . God had been gracious to His God had been gracious to His servantsservants, and , and heaven had come very close to earthheaven had come very close to earth. . Gehazi’s heart should have been uplifted in praise Gehazi’s heart should have been uplifted in praise and thanksgiving to God for the wonderful blessings and thanksgiving to God for the wonderful blessings receivedreceived. . He should have thought of how Naaman’s He should have thought of how Naaman’s heart might be favorably impressed and how the heart might be favorably impressed and how the Syrian commander might be brought to feel that the Syrian commander might be brought to feel that the faith of the Israelites was the world’s only true faith of the Israelites was the world’s only true religion which made men unselfishreligion which made men unselfish, honest, and kind. , honest, and kind. But instead he thought only of himself and of his own But instead he thought only of himself and of his own interestsinterests..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible


2 Kings 5:26 (cont’d)2 Kings 5:26 (cont’d)• It is a time to receive money?It is a time to receive money? … … Elisha’s words Elisha’s words

of rebuke were not only for his servant Gehaziof rebuke were not only for his servant Gehazi but but for those in God’s church today who manifest the for those in God’s church today who manifest the same spirit as did Gehazisame spirit as did Gehazi. . In our day God has again In our day God has again been very nearbeen very near, and , and wonderful miracles of grace wonderful miracles of grace have been wrought in many landshave been wrought in many lands. . Sinners Sinners everywhere are being reclaimed and songs of everywhere are being reclaimed and songs of thanksgiving and victory are ascending to Godthanksgiving and victory are ascending to God. . But But once more in the hearts of some the spirit of once more in the hearts of some the spirit of avarice and greed has been allowed to prevailavarice and greed has been allowed to prevail. . They are engaged in the service of selfThey are engaged in the service of self. . Silver is Silver is being hoarded and hidden that should be employed being hoarded and hidden that should be employed toward the salvation of mentoward the salvation of men. . Once more God is Once more God is looking down from heavenlooking down from heaven, and the question is , and the question is asked, “asked, “Is it a time to receiveIs it a time to receive money, and money, and to to receive garmentsreceive garments?”?”– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible


2 Kings 5:26 (cont’d)2 Kings 5:26 (cont’d)

• Oliveyards.Oliveyards. Gehazi had been thinking Gehazi had been thinking of the disposition he would make of his of the disposition he would make of his wealthwealth, and , and the prophet here probably the prophet here probably enumerates the purchases his servant enumerates the purchases his servant intended to makeintended to make..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day

Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Association) 1978.

2 Kings 5:272 Kings 5:27• 27. Cleave unto thee.27. Cleave unto thee. The day that brought so The day that brought so

great a blessing to Naaman the Syrian brought a great a blessing to Naaman the Syrian brought a terrible curse to the Hebrew servant of the terrible curse to the Hebrew servant of the prophet of Godprophet of God. . Naaman went on his way in Naaman went on his way in peacepeace, , his heart rejoicing in his new hope in Godhis heart rejoicing in his new hope in God. . Gehazi carried the results of his sin to his graveGehazi carried the results of his sin to his grave. . He He remained a leper to the day of his deathremained a leper to the day of his death, , cursed by Heavencursed by Heaven, , despised by his fellow mendespised by his fellow men, an , an object lesson for all time to come of the folly of object lesson for all time to come of the folly of greed and the emptiness of a life that seeks first greed and the emptiness of a life that seeks first the treasures of this world rather than the the treasures of this world rather than the treasures of the kingdom of Godtreasures of the kingdom of God. During his years . During his years of fellowship with Elisha, of fellowship with Elisha, Gehazi had had the Gehazi had had the opportunity of learning lessons of the joy and opportunity of learning lessons of the joy and satisfaction of a life of unselfish devotion and lovesatisfaction of a life of unselfish devotion and love. .

Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• 27. Cleave unto thee…27. Cleave unto thee… But But he had failed to learn he had failed to learn his lessonhis lesson. The . The gifts of Heaven were spurned while gifts of Heaven were spurned while he reached out for earthly treasurehe reached out for earthly treasure, which, , which, like like cancercancer, , eats away the souls of meneats away the souls of men. . Instead of Instead of developing a spirit of self-denial while engaged in developing a spirit of self-denial while engaged in the service of Godthe service of God, , he had allowed himself to he had allowed himself to become selfish and interested in material gainbecome selfish and interested in material gain. . His His interest was in shekels of silver rather than in the interest was in shekels of silver rather than in the souls of mensouls of men, , in garments of linen rather than in in garments of linen rather than in garments of righteousnessgarments of righteousness..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• For ever.For ever. It must not be thought that because of the It must not be thought that because of the sin of Gehazisin of Gehazi, , God was pronouncing a curse upon his God was pronouncing a curse upon his posterity that would endure for all timeposterity that would endure for all time. The . The Lord is Lord is kind and merciful and never brings unjust or kind and merciful and never brings unjust or unnecessary affliction upon anyoneunnecessary affliction upon anyone. Gehazi, . Gehazi, because because of his greedof his greed, , had brought a dreadful judgment upon had brought a dreadful judgment upon himselfhimself. . Because of that judgment his children would Because of that judgment his children would be forced to sufferbe forced to suffer. . Disease and its effects are often Disease and its effects are often passed on to an innocent posteritypassed on to an innocent posterity. . But to say that But to say that because Gehazi became a leperbecause Gehazi became a leper, , his descendants his descendants throughout all the ages to come would likewise be throughout all the ages to come would likewise be leperslepers, , is to say something that is not trueis to say something that is not true..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible


2 Kings 5:272 Kings 5:27• The Hebrew expression here used, The Hebrew expression here used, leÔolamleÔolam, does , does

not necessarily mean without cessation, or to all not necessarily mean without cessation, or to all eternity. The eternity. The word word ÔolamÔolam, , when applied to Godwhen applied to God, , means without endmeans without end; when ; when applied to man’s lifeapplied to man’s life, , it it extends only to the end of human existenceextends only to the end of human existence. In . In Ex. 21:6 Ex. 21:6 a servant was to serve his mastera servant was to serve his master “ “for for everever.” .” Of the strangers that sojourned in their land Of the strangers that sojourned in their land the Israelites were to makethe Israelites were to make “ “bondmen for everbondmen for ever” ” (Lev. 25:46). Shortly before the death of David, (Lev. 25:46). Shortly before the death of David, Bath-sheba bowed herself before the king with the Bath-sheba bowed herself before the king with the words, “Let my lord king David live for ever” (1 words, “Let my lord king David live for ever” (1 Kings 1:31). So also Nehemiah said to King Kings 1:31). So also Nehemiah said to King Artaxerxes, “Let the king live for ever” (Neh. 2:3). Artaxerxes, “Let the king live for ever” (Neh. 2:3). – Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• The The smoke of the earth in the day of the smoke of the earth in the day of the Lord’s vengeance is described as goingLord’s vengeance is described as going “ “up for up for everever” (Isa. 34:10). When Jonah pictured his ” (Isa. 34:10). When Jonah pictured his descent into the belly of the whale, he said descent into the belly of the whale, he said that the bars of the earth were about him “for that the bars of the earth were about him “for ever” (Jonah 2:6). The expression ever” (Jonah 2:6). The expression leÔolamleÔolam simply means “age lasting,” and the length of simply means “age lasting,” and the length of time involved must be deduced from the time involved must be deduced from the particular idea with which the expression is particular idea with which the expression is associated (see on Ex. 12:14; 21:6).associated (see on Ex. 12:14; 21:6).– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• 5. As he was telling.5. As he was telling. At the dramatic moment when At the dramatic moment when Gehazi was telling the king how the Shunammite Gehazi was telling the king how the Shunammite woman’s son had been restored from death to lifewoman’s son had been restored from death to life, the , the woman herself came inwoman herself came in. . Incidents such as this do not Incidents such as this do not just happenjust happen. . God lives and has a part in the daily God lives and has a part in the daily affairs of His children on earthaffairs of His children on earth. . Guardian angels are Guardian angels are ever at work to protect and direct the steps of those ever at work to protect and direct the steps of those under their charge into pathways of success and under their charge into pathways of success and blessingblessing. The same Lord who spoke through Elisha . The same Lord who spoke through Elisha worked through His angel messengers to direct the worked through His angel messengers to direct the woman of Shunem to the palace of the king at exactly woman of Shunem to the palace of the king at exactly the right moment, when her plea would prove most the right moment, when her plea would prove most effectiveeffective– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible

Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.Association) 1978.

Acts 5:2Acts 5:2• The approval with which The approval with which Luke tells the story of the Luke tells the story of the

self-sacrifice of Barnabas must have reflected the self-sacrifice of Barnabas must have reflected the approval of the churchapproval of the church. . Ananias apparently thought Ananias apparently thought that he could gain the same approvalthat he could gain the same approval, but , but with less with less sacrifice on his partsacrifice on his part. The . The desire to please was strong desire to please was strong enough to gain a partial victory over greedenough to gain a partial victory over greed. But . But greed was strong enough to triumph over honestygreed was strong enough to triumph over honesty. . The The impulse to sell came from the Spirit of Godimpulse to sell came from the Spirit of God; the ; the impulse to retain part of the price was evilimpulse to retain part of the price was evil. The . The act act was an attempt to serve both God and mammonwas an attempt to serve both God and mammon. . The The sin was in some respects like that of Gehazisin was in some respects like that of Gehazi (see on 2 (see on 2 Kings 5:20–27), Kings 5:20–27), but seen against the background of but seen against the background of the miracles of Pentecost and the extraordinary the miracles of Pentecost and the extraordinary progress of the church under the Spirit’s guidanceprogress of the church under the Spirit’s guidance, , it it was more heinous and was visited with severer was more heinous and was visited with severer punishmentpunishment..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible


Health ProspectiveHealth Prospective

• THE FOLLOWING INSIGHTS ARE ON THE FOLLOWING INSIGHTS ARE ON LEPROSY REFERRED IN GEHAZI’S LEPROSY REFERRED IN GEHAZI’S CURSE AND WORTH MENTIONING CURSE AND WORTH MENTIONING

AND TAKEN FROM LEVITICUS AND TAKEN FROM LEVITICUS CHAPTER 13 AND 14CHAPTER 13 AND 14

Leprosy Leviticus Chapter Leprosy Leviticus Chapter 1313

• Many of the symptoms listed in this chapter Many of the symptoms listed in this chapter for various types of “leprosy” are different for various types of “leprosy” are different from the symptoms of the disease now from the symptoms of the disease now commonly known by that name. commonly known by that name. Furthermore, Furthermore, Mosaic provisions for Mosaic provisions for ceremonial cleansing imply that those ceremonial cleansing imply that those suffering from some forms ofsuffering from some forms of “ “leprosyleprosy” ” recovered in a short timerecovered in a short time. Until recently no . Until recently no way was known to treat true leprosy way was known to treat true leprosy successfully.successfully.

– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• The word translated “leprosy” is from the Heb. The word translated “leprosy” is from the Heb. s\araÔs\araÔ, , which means to “which means to “strike downstrike down.” A .” A person afflicted withperson afflicted with “l“leprosyeprosy” ” was stricken downwas stricken down, , presumably as a divine presumably as a divine punishment for sinful actspunishment for sinful acts. This was true in the cases of . This was true in the cases of Miriam (Num. 12:10), Gehazi (2 Kings 5:27), Uzziah (2 Miriam (Num. 12:10), Gehazi (2 Kings 5:27), Uzziah (2 Kings 15:5). In other cases mentioned in the OT it is not Kings 15:5). In other cases mentioned in the OT it is not clear whether this principle holds true (2 Kings 5:1; clear whether this principle holds true (2 Kings 5:1; 7:3). Gesenius considers that 7:3). Gesenius considers that s\araÔs\araÔ is interchangeable is interchangeable with with garaÔgaraÔ, and thus contains the idea of scabbiness. , and thus contains the idea of scabbiness. The Greek word The Greek word leproslepros, from which our word , from which our word leprosyleprosy comes, meant “scaly,” “scabby,” “rough.” comes, meant “scaly,” “scabby,” “rough.” Modern Modern leprosyleprosy, , elephantiasis graecorumelephantiasis graecorum, , is of three kindsis of three kinds, , lepra tuberculoideslepra tuberculoides, , characterized by tuberclescharacterized by tubercles, , lepra lepra maculosamaculosa, , characterized by spots or streakscharacterized by spots or streaks, and , and lepra lepra anaestheticaanaesthetica, or , or that which affects the nervous systemthat which affects the nervous system..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• It seems most probable that the “leprosy” of Lev. It seems most probable that the “leprosy” of Lev. 13 is a 13 is a general term descriptive of various skin general term descriptive of various skin diseasesdiseases, such , such as psoriasis and vitiligoas psoriasis and vitiligo, as well as , as well as true leprosy. Most of the symptoms here described true leprosy. Most of the symptoms here described more closely resemble more closely resemble lepra mosaicalepra mosaica, or psoriasis. , or psoriasis. The “rising” mentioned in v. 2 may be similar to the The “rising” mentioned in v. 2 may be similar to the tubercles characteristic of tubercles characteristic of lepra tuberculoideslepra tuberculoides or or possibly possibly lepra anaestheticalepra anaesthetica. The “bright spot” . The “bright spot” repeatedly mentioned is thought by some to repeatedly mentioned is thought by some to resemble vitiligo, resemble vitiligo, a tropical disease of which this is a tropical disease of which this is a distinctive symptoma distinctive symptom. In vitiligo . In vitiligo the hairs of the the hairs of the affected parts turn whiteaffected parts turn white, as in v. 3. , as in v. 3. The disease The disease begins as small patchesbegins as small patches, , spreadsspreads, and , and often often involves large areas of the skininvolves large areas of the skin. It . It is harmlessis harmless, but , but disfigures the appearancedisfigures the appearance, , particularly of those with particularly of those with a swarthy complexiona swarthy complexion..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• The The fact that there are variations in the symptomsfact that there are variations in the symptoms of of the “leprosy” mentioned in this chapter, the “leprosy” mentioned in this chapter, further further supports the idea that several diseases which supports the idea that several diseases which strikingly affected the skin are included under the strikingly affected the skin are included under the general termgeneral term “ “leprosyleprosy.” In a day when .” In a day when medical medical science as such did not exist it wouldscience as such did not exist it would have been a have been a difficult thing for the priests to give a differential difficult thing for the priests to give a differential diagnosis of various diseases affecting the skindiagnosis of various diseases affecting the skin, , when when they were in many respects similarthey were in many respects similar, and , and for which for which there were no specific namesthere were no specific names. . Moses apparently Moses apparently grouped these related diseases under one general grouped these related diseases under one general headhead, , s\araÔs\araÔ, which our English versions have , which our English versions have translated “leprosy.”translated “leprosy.”– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• The The idea of quarantining those afflicted with idea of quarantining those afflicted with contagious diseases seems to have contagious diseases seems to have originated with the Hebrew peopleoriginated with the Hebrew people, a , a safeguard given them by God Himselfsafeguard given them by God Himself. . It has It has been thought by some that the Biblical idea been thought by some that the Biblical idea of segregating persons havingof segregating persons having “ “leprosyleprosy” ” led led to the medieval practice of isolating those to the medieval practice of isolating those with true leprosywith true leprosy. . Some commentators have Some commentators have held that true leprosy originated in Egyptheld that true leprosy originated in Egypt, but , but its origin is unknownits origin is unknown. . Long before Israelite Long before Israelite times it was widespread in the Far Easttimes it was widespread in the Far East, , IndiaIndia, , and and AfricaAfrica, and , and around the Mediterranean around the Mediterranean coastscoasts..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist



• The “The “leprosyleprosy” ” in the walls of houses or in the walls of houses or garments took the form of red-green garments took the form of red-green streaks or spotsstreaks or spots. . This seems to have been This seems to have been a mildew or a fungusa mildew or a fungus, and , and although although different from thedifferent from the “ “leprosyleprosy” ” in human in human beings, probably indicated that the house beings, probably indicated that the house was not a safe dwelling placewas not a safe dwelling place. . Affected Affected clothing might also perhaps spread a clothing might also perhaps spread a fungus disease to human beingsfungus disease to human beings..

– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review Bible Commentary, (Washington, D.C.: Review and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.and Herald Publishing Association) 1978.


• Ellen G. White commentsEllen G. White comments• 4545 DA 262, 776 and 46-52MH 278DA 262, 776 and 46-52MH 278• Leviticus chapter 14Leviticus chapter 14• 1 1 The rites and sacrifices in cleansing of the leper.The rites and sacrifices in cleansing of the leper. 33 33

The signs of leprosy in a house.The signs of leprosy in a house. 43 43 The cleansing of that The cleansing of that house.house.

• 2. The law of the leper.2. The law of the leper. The purification of a leper is The purification of a leper is given in more detail than that of the purification for any given in more detail than that of the purification for any other defilementother defilement. As . As the leper was excluded not only the leper was excluded not only from the sanctuary but from the campfrom the sanctuary but from the camp, , there were two there were two ceremonies included in the restorationceremonies included in the restoration. The . The first entitled first entitled him to reenter the camp and associate with his brethrenhim to reenter the camp and associate with his brethren. . The The secondsecond, a , a week laterweek later, was , was performed in the court of performed in the court of the tabernacle and restored him to full fellowship and to the tabernacle and restored him to full fellowship and to all the privileges of the covenant relationshipall the privileges of the covenant relationship..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• The The attitude toward leprosyattitude toward leprosy, , leading to leading to exclusion from the campexclusion from the camp, , doubtless has its doubtless has its origin in the peculiar character of the diseaseorigin in the peculiar character of the disease. . True leprosy was especially associated with True leprosy was especially associated with deathdeath, in , in which it ordinarily eventuatedwhich it ordinarily eventuated, and , and in in its later stages was a sort ofits later stages was a sort of “ “living deathliving death,” ,” in in which various members of the body died and which various members of the body died and sloughed offsloughed off. . Toward the last the leper was a Toward the last the leper was a specter of deathspecter of death, and , and illustrated in a graphic illustrated in a graphic manner the wages of sinmanner the wages of sin. . For this reason For this reason leprosy has throughout the ages been leprosy has throughout the ages been consideredconsidered, , among both Jewish and Christian among both Jewish and Christian commentatorscommentators, a , a symbol of sin and its resultssymbol of sin and its results..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• One who had been placed outside the camp on One who had been placed outside the camp on suspicion ofsuspicion of “ “leprosyleprosy” ” could call for a priest if he had could call for a priest if he had the slightest indication that he was improvingthe slightest indication that he was improving. . It was It was the duty of the priest to go when he was calledthe duty of the priest to go when he was called, but , but we may suppose that at times he did so with we may suppose that at times he did so with reluctancereluctance. . Feeling sure that there had been no Feeling sure that there had been no improvementimprovement, , he would be tempted to become he would be tempted to become impatient and reluctant to respondimpatient and reluctant to respond. . He needed He needed patiencepatience, , so as never to lose the feeling of so as never to lose the feeling of compassion the leper so much neededcompassion the leper so much needed. . He must He must learn not to shun the leperlearn not to shun the leper, but , but to pity and help himto pity and help him. . This is a lesson for the servants of God todayThis is a lesson for the servants of God today. . Like Like the priest of oldthe priest of old, the , the minister of God today mustminister of God today must ““have compassionhave compassion” (Heb. 5:2).” (Heb. 5:2).– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible



• Leprosy was not specifically painfulLeprosy was not specifically painful, but , but the dread and the dread and horror of it must have vitally affected the whole life of the horror of it must have vitally affected the whole life of the sufferersufferer. . In like manner sin may not be felt so keenlyIn like manner sin may not be felt so keenly, and , and a man may hardly be conscious of its malignant naturea man may hardly be conscious of its malignant nature. . Leprosy was corrosiveLeprosy was corrosive, and , and penetrated almost unfelt and penetrated almost unfelt and unseen until it blossomed in ulcers and raw fleshunseen until it blossomed in ulcers and raw flesh, and , and wasted away parts of the bodywasted away parts of the body. . So sin also eats out all So sin also eats out all spiritual life and beautyspiritual life and beauty, , even though outwardly there even though outwardly there may be no striking evidence of the condition withinmay be no striking evidence of the condition within. . Finally, Finally, the disease broke forth externallythe disease broke forth externally, and , and the man the man became a living skeletonbecame a living skeleton, a , a mass of loathsome mass of loathsome corruptioncorruption. . So sin at last comes to fruitionSo sin at last comes to fruition, , until the until the image of God in man is practically obliteratedimage of God in man is practically obliterated. As . As leprosy leprosy ended in deathended in death, , so sin ends in deathso sin ends in death. . It would seemIt would seem, , therefore, therefore, that leprosy is a disease especially adapted to that leprosy is a disease especially adapted to typify sin in its various features as no other malady couldtypify sin in its various features as no other malady could..– Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Nichol, Francis D., The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,


SDA QUARTERLY DEC-12SDA QUARTERLY DEC-12

• Although the job of prophet depended on a Although the job of prophet depended on a divine call, it would seem that this special divine call, it would seem that this special time of serving together helped the would-be time of serving together helped the would-be prophet develop his faith and trust in God. By prophet develop his faith and trust in God. By serving his master Elijah, serving his master Elijah, Elisha would be Elisha would be learning to put himself aside and serve learning to put himself aside and serve othersothers. This would . This would prove to be the best prove to be the best qualification for any future ministryqualification for any future ministry. . We have We have no record of Gehazi’s callingno record of Gehazi’s calling, but , but we will see we will see the opportunities that he was giventhe opportunities that he was given. .


• This This servant ideaservant idea is by is by no means no means restricted to Old Testament timesrestricted to Old Testament times. . Jesus said that the willingness to be a Jesus said that the willingness to be a servant was a prerequisite for any servant was a prerequisite for any leadership position in the churchleadership position in the church (Mark 9:35).(Mark 9:35).


• How do we getHow do we get the the humilityhumility and the and the death to selfdeath to self needed in order to needed in order to serve othersserve others? ? How do we learn to How do we learn to serve othersserve others with an attitudewith an attitude of of seeking nothing back for ourselvesseeking nothing back for ourselves??


• It It sometimes is easy to be so self-sometimes is easy to be so self-centeredcentered and and self-absorbed that we self-absorbed that we become insensitive to the feelings and become insensitive to the feelings and needs of othersneeds of others. . Who hasn’t been on Who hasn’t been on both ends of that equationboth ends of that equation? ? How can you How can you learn to be more sensitive to the feelings learn to be more sensitive to the feelings and needs of othersand needs of others? Also, ? Also, how can you how can you learn to bear gracefully the insensitivity learn to bear gracefully the insensitivity of others toward youof others toward you??


• Consider This: Consider This: Which Which admirable admirable qualities does Gehazi exhibitqualities does Gehazi exhibit? How ? How does self-centeredness usher in does self-centeredness usher in insensitivityinsensitivity? ?


• GEHAZI’S FALL - It’s hard, at least from GEHAZI’S FALL - It’s hard, at least from our our perspective todayperspective today, to , to understand why understand why characters in the Bible did what they did at characters in the Bible did what they did at timestimes, , especially in the face of so many especially in the face of so many miraculous eventsmiraculous events. The incredible healing of . The incredible healing of Naaman happened right before Gehazi. Naaman happened right before Gehazi. He He saw not only the power of God but the actions saw not only the power of God but the actions of his masterof his master, , who refused to take any money who refused to take any money from the captainfrom the captain. . One would think that would One would think that would have been more than enough to humble him have been more than enough to humble him before God and manbefore God and man, but , but apparently it didn’tapparently it didn’t..


• It is strange that It is strange that Gehazi swears to Gehazi swears to himself by the living God and then himself by the living God and then goes off to deceivegoes off to deceive. . Does he think Does he think that the living God does not see himthat the living God does not see him? ? What a powerful testimony to the What a powerful testimony to the power of our own corrupt hearts to power of our own corrupt hearts to deceive usdeceive us! !

SPIRIT OF PROPHECY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY

• THE FOLLOWING ARE REFERENCES THE FOLLOWING ARE REFERENCES FROM THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY FROM THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY

WORTH MENTIONINGWORTH MENTIONING

SPIRIT OF PROPHECYSPIRIT OF PROPHECY• PK.250.004 PK.250.004 • Gehazi, Elisha's servant, Gehazi, Elisha's servant, had had opportunity had had opportunity

during the years to develop the spirit of self-denial during the years to develop the spirit of self-denial characterizing his master's lifeworkcharacterizing his master's lifework. It had been his . It had been his privilege to become a noble standard-bearer in the privilege to become a noble standard-bearer in the army of the Lordarmy of the Lord. The . The best gifts of Heaven had long best gifts of Heaven had long been within his reachbeen within his reach; yet, ; yet, turning from theseturning from these, , he he had coveted instead the base alloy of worldly had coveted instead the base alloy of worldly wealthwealth. And . And now the hidden longings of his now the hidden longings of his avaricious spirit led him to yield to an avaricious spirit led him to yield to an overmastering temptationovermastering temptation. "Behold," he reasoned . "Behold," he reasoned within himself, "my master hath spared Naaman within himself, "my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but . . . I will run after him, and take he brought: but . . . I will run after him, and take somewhat of him." And somewhat of him." And thus it came about that in thus it came about that in secrecysecrecy "Gehazi followed after Naaman." "Gehazi followed after Naaman."

SPIRIT OF PROPHECYSPIRIT OF PROPHECY

• PK.251.001 PK.251.001 • When When Naaman saw him running after himNaaman saw him running after him, , he he

lighted down from the chariot to meet himlighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, , and said, Is all well? And he said, All is well." Is all well? And he said, All is well." Then Gehazi Then Gehazi uttered a deliberate lieuttered a deliberate lie. "My master," he said, "hath . "My master," he said, "hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from Mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of me from Mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments." and two changes of garments." To the request To the request Naaman gladly accededNaaman gladly acceded, , pressing upon Gehazi two pressing upon Gehazi two talents of silver instead of onetalents of silver instead of one, "with two changes of , "with two changes of garments," and garments," and commissioning servants to bear the commissioning servants to bear the treasure backtreasure back. .


• PK.251.003 PK.251.003 • Then came the stern denunciationThen came the stern denunciation, , showing showing

that Elisha knew allthat Elisha knew all. "Went not mine heart with . "Went not mine heart with thee," he asked, "when the man turned again thee," he asked, "when the man turned again from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to from his chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and receive money, and to receive garments, and olive yards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, olive yards, and vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants? The leprosy and menservants, and maidservants? The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed forever." unto thy seed forever." Swift was the retribution Swift was the retribution that overtook the guilty manthat overtook the guilty man. . He went out from He went out from Elisha's presenceElisha's presence "a leper as white as snow." "a leper as white as snow."


• PK.252.001 PK.252.001 • Solemn are the lessons taught by this Solemn are the lessons taught by this

experience of one to whom had been given experience of one to whom had been given high and holy privilegeshigh and holy privileges. The . The course of Gehazi course of Gehazi was such as to was such as to place a stumbling blockplace a stumbling block in in the pathway of Naamanthe pathway of Naaman, , upon whose mind upon whose mind had broken a wonderful lighthad broken a wonderful light, and , and who was who was favorably disposed toward the service of the favorably disposed toward the service of the living Godliving God. . For the deception practiced by For the deception practiced by Gehazi there could be pleaded no excuseGehazi there could be pleaded no excuse. . To To the day of his death he remained a leperthe day of his death he remained a leper, , cursed of Godcursed of God and and shunned by his fellow menshunned by his fellow men. .


• PK.252.002 PK.252.002 • "A "A false witness shall not be unpunishedfalse witness shall not be unpunished, ,

and and he that speaketh lies shall not escapehe that speaketh lies shall not escape." ." Proverbs 19:5. Proverbs 19:5. Men may think to hide their evil Men may think to hide their evil deeds from human eyesdeeds from human eyes, but , but they cannot they cannot deceive Goddeceive God. ". "All things are naked and opened All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to dounto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." ." Heb. 4:13. Heb. 4:13. Gehazi thought to deceive ElishaGehazi thought to deceive Elisha, but , but God revealed to His prophet the words that God revealed to His prophet the words that Gehazi had spoken to NaamanGehazi had spoken to Naaman, and , and every detail every detail of the scene between the two menof the scene between the two men. .


• PK.252.003 PK.252.003 • Truth is of GodTruth is of God; ; deception in all its myriad deception in all its myriad

forms isforms is of Satan, and of Satan, and whoever in any way whoever in any way departs from the straight line of truth is departs from the straight line of truth is betraying himself into the power of the wicked betraying himself into the power of the wicked oneone. . Those who have learned of ChristThose who have learned of Christ will will ""have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darknessdarkness." Ephesians 5:11. ." Ephesians 5:11. In speechIn speech, , as in as in lifelife, , they will be simplethey will be simple, , straightforwardstraightforward, and , and truetrue, for , for they are preparing for the fellowship they are preparing for the fellowship of thoseof those holy onesholy ones in whose mouth is found no in whose mouth is found no guileguile. See Revelation 14:5. . See Revelation 14:5.

SPIRIT OF PROPHECYSPIRIT OF PROPHECY• PK.252.004 PK.252.004 • Centuries after Naaman returned to his Syrian Centuries after Naaman returned to his Syrian

homehome, , healed in body and converted in spirithealed in body and converted in spirit, , his his wonderful faith was referred to and commended wonderful faith was referred to and commended by the Saviour as an object lesson for all who by the Saviour as an object lesson for all who claim to serve Godclaim to serve God. ". "Many lepers were in Israel in Many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophetthe time of Eliseus the prophet," the Saviour ," the Saviour declared; "and declared; "and none of them was cleansednone of them was cleansed, , saving Naaman the Syriansaving Naaman the Syrian." Luke 4:27. ." Luke 4:27. God God passed over the many lepers in Israel because passed over the many lepers in Israel because their unbelief closed the door of good to themtheir unbelief closed the door of good to them. A . A heathen nobleman who had been true to his heathen nobleman who had been true to his convictions of rightconvictions of right, and , and who felt his need of helpwho felt his need of help, , was in the sight of God more worthy of His was in the sight of God more worthy of His blessing than were the afflicted in Israelblessing than were the afflicted in Israel, , who had who had slighted and despised their God-given privilegesslighted and despised their God-given privileges. . God works for those who appreciate His favors God works for those who appreciate His favors and respond to the light given them from heavenand respond to the light given them from heaven. .


• PK.253.001 PK.253.001

• Today in every land there are those who Today in every land there are those who are honest in heartare honest in heart, and , and upon these the light upon these the light of heaven is shiningof heaven is shining. . If they continue faithful If they continue faithful in following that which they understand to in following that which they understand to be dutybe duty, , they will be given increased lightthey will be given increased light, , untiluntil, , like Naaman of oldlike Naaman of old, , they will be they will be constrained to acknowledge thatconstrained to acknowledge that " "there is no there is no God in all the earthGod in all the earth," ," save the living Godsave the living God, , the the CreatorCreator. .


• PK.253.002 PK.253.002 • To every sincere soulTo every sincere soul "that walketh in "that walketh in

darkness, and hath no light," darkness, and hath no light," is given the is given the invitationinvitation, ", "Let him trust in the name of the Let him trust in the name of the LordLord, and , and stay upon his Godstay upon his God." "." "For since the For since the beginning of the world men have not heardbeginning of the world men have not heard, , nor perceived by the earnor perceived by the ear, , neither hath the neither hath the eye seeneye seen, , O GodO God, , beside Theebeside Thee, , what He hath what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Himprepared for him that waiteth for Him. . Thou Thou meetest him that rejoicethmeetest him that rejoiceth and and worketh worketh righteousnessrighteousness, , those that remember Thee in those that remember Thee in Thy waysThy ways." Isaiah 50:10; 64:4, 5. ." Isaiah 50:10; 64:4, 5.

AWAKE, MY SOUL, AND WITH THE AWAKE, MY SOUL, AND WITH THE SUNSUN

• Thomas Ken wrote this hymn at a time when the es Thomas Ken wrote this hymn at a time when the es tab lished church be lieved on ly Script ure should be tab lished church be lieved on ly Script ure should be sung as hymns—with an em pha sis on the Psalms. sung as hymns—with an em pha sis on the Psalms. Some con sid ered it sin ful and blas phe mous to write Some con sid ered it sin ful and blas phe mous to write new lyr ics for church mu sic, akin to ad ding to the new lyr ics for church mu sic, akin to ad ding to the Script ures. In that at mo sphere, Ken wrote this and Script ures. In that at mo sphere, Ken wrote this and sev er al other hymns for the boys at Win chest er Col sev er al other hymns for the boys at Win chest er Col lege, with strict in struct ions that they use them on ly lege, with strict in struct ions that they use them on ly in their rooms, for pri vate de vo tions. Iron ic al ly, the in their rooms, for pri vate de vo tions. Iron ic al ly, the last stan za has come into wide spread use as the last stan za has come into wide spread use as the Dox ol o gyDox ol o gy, per haps the most fr equent ly used piece of , per haps the most fr equent ly used piece of mu sic in pub lic wor ship. At Ken’s request, the hymn mu sic in pub lic wor ship. At Ken’s request, the hymn was sung at his fun er al, fit tingly held at sun rise.was sung at his fun er al, fit tingly held at sun rise.

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/p/r/praisegf.htm

AWAKE, MY SOUL, AND WITH AWAKE, MY SOUL, AND WITH THE SUNTHE SUN

• Awake, my soul, and with the sunAwake, my soul, and with the sunThy daily stage of duty run;Thy daily stage of duty run;Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise,Shake off dull sloth, and joyful rise,To pay thy morning sacrifice.To pay thy morning sacrifice.

• Thy precious time misspent, redeem,Thy precious time misspent, redeem,Each present day thy last esteem,Each present day thy last esteem,Improve thy talent with due care;Improve thy talent with due care;For the great day thyself prepare.For the great day thyself prepare.


• By influence of the Light divineBy influence of the Light divineLet thy own light to others shine.Let thy own light to others shine.Reflect all Heaven’s propitious waysReflect all Heaven’s propitious waysIn ardent love, and cheerful praise.In ardent love, and cheerful praise.

• In conversation be sincere;In conversation be sincere;Keep conscience as the noontide clear;Keep conscience as the noontide clear;Think how all seeing God thy waysThink how all seeing God thy waysAnd all thy secret thoughts surveys.And all thy secret thoughts surveys.


• Wake, and lift up thyself, my heart,Wake, and lift up thyself, my heart,And with the angels bear thy part,And with the angels bear thy part,Who all night long unwearied singWho all night long unwearied singHigh praise to the eternal King.High praise to the eternal King.

• All praise to Thee, who safe has keptAll praise to Thee, who safe has keptAnd hast refreshed me while I sleptAnd hast refreshed me while I sleptGrant, Lord, when I from death shall wakeGrant, Lord, when I from death shall wakeI may of endless light partake.I may of endless light partake.


• Heav’n is, dear Lord, where’er Thou art,Heav’n is, dear Lord, where’er Thou art,O never then from me depart;O never then from me depart;For to my soul ’tis hell to beFor to my soul ’tis hell to beBut for one moment void of Thee.But for one moment void of Thee.

• Lord, I my vows to Thee renew;Lord, I my vows to Thee renew;Disperse my sins as morning dew.Disperse my sins as morning dew.Guard my first springs of thought and will,Guard my first springs of thought and will,And with Thyself my spirit fill.And with Thyself my spirit fill.


• Direct, control, suggest, this day,Direct, control, suggest, this day,All I design, or do, or say,All I design, or do, or say,That all my powers, with all their might,That all my powers, with all their might,In Thy sole glory may unite.In Thy sole glory may unite.

• I would not wake nor rise againI would not wake nor rise againAnd Heaven itself I would disdain,And Heaven itself I would disdain,Wert Thou not there to be enjoyed,Wert Thou not there to be enjoyed,And I in hymns to be employed.And I in hymns to be employed.


• Praise God, from Whom all blessings Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;flow;Praise Him, all creatures here below;Praise Him, all creatures here below;Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

THANK THE LORD JESUS CHRISTTHANK THE LORD JESUS CHRIST

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