Healing of Naaman

In this chapter, we learn about Naaman – captain of the army of Aram (Syria), valiant warrior, leper. Yet God miraculously healed him of his leprosy. This is more than just a history lesson or an interesting story. It provides important lessons for us today. How Naaman was healed PHYSICALLY helps show us how we can be healed SPIRITUALLY. What man thinks is important may not be. What is truly important is determined by the Lord.

Greatness Before Men Is Irrelevant

• Naaman was a great man (v. 1) – high ranking, well-accomplished, respected; “but he was a leper”; his position, connections, or resources could not remedy his condition
• No greatness on our part will prevent or cure the problem of sin (Matthew 16:26) – all have sinned (Romans 3:23); all will be judged, both small and great (Revelation 20:12-15); judgment according to our deeds, not our possessions
• [Side point] Remember how Naaman learned about the prophet (v. 3) – from a servant girl, an Israelite; do not underestimate the good you can do in leading others to the truth, even ones who are “greater” than you

Who Delivers the Message Is Irrelevant

• Naaman came with gifts and a company of men with him (v. 5, 9) – first went to the king (likely expected to be highly-respected and royally received); finally went to the prophet Elisha (likely felt slighted when Elisha did not come out to meet him); Elisha sent his messenger out to deliver instructions to Naaman (v. 10)
• Truth is truth, no matter who delivers it – the instructions to Naaman were the same, whether from Elisha or his servant; the gospel is the same today whether taught by one with a PhD or one with no formal education; Peter and John had no formal education in religious matters (Acts 4:13); also Jesus (cf. John 7:14-15)
• We need to have enough humility to accept the truth regardless of the teacher

What One Thinks Is Irrelevant

• Naaman was “furious” about the instructions (v. 11-12) – the message was not what he expected (v. 11), so he mocked and ridiculed the instructions (v. 12); the problem was not that he could not understand the instructions; they were very plain
• The same thing happens today when people reject the plain teachings of God’s word – it is not what they expect [briefly review plan of salvation]; so they mock/ridicule the instructions (“water salvation,” “salvation by works,” “earning salvation,” etc.); yet no amount of opposition changes what the word of God teaches (cf. Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:21)

What Matters Is Following God’s Instructions

• God’s grace is conditional (v. 10; cf. Romans 11:22; 2 Corinthians 6:1)
• God’s instructions are simple (v. 10; cf. Acts 2:38; Ephesians 3:4)
• God’s commandments are doable (1 John 5:3) – everyone can do them (Acts 10:34-35)
• Obedience will be rewarded (v. 14; cf. Hebrews 5:9; Revelation 22:14)

Conclusion

• Naaman was healed of his leprosy when he complied with God’s instructions and met His conditions
• We are saved in the same way today – we can be saved from our sin ONLY BY the grace of God; yet we are saved by His grace ONLY WHEN we obey His will and meet His conditions