trojan horse revisited - This story begins by informing the reader that Syria (Aram in nrsv) has defeated Israel. Since such history in uncomplimentary, the writer adds, "the LORD had given victory to the Syrian forces [against Israel]. " The story must have been a favorite around exilic dinner tables. Even in defeat, an lowly Israelite servant who is exported to Syria becomes a Trojan horse who accomplishes a reversal once inside - the conversion of a powerful military commander. [1]

stepping over the boundaries - The remarkable and clear message from the story is the God who brings saving help to those who call upon God’s name-even if the call for help comes across from non-covenantal types. The whole story-with the Gehazi episode-reveals the full irony. The Gentile (Naaman) is restored, while the Israelite Gehazi (covenantal person) is cursed. It is not surprising that later the plot will be repeated by Jesus (Mark 1:40ff) and will be used by Jesus to define his own ministry (Luke 4:27). [1]

the learning curve? - Like other stories in Hebrew scripture-Jonah and Ruth-this experience results in Naaman’s confession of faith in Yahweh. But notice the sequence: restoration first, confession second, not visa versa. God initiates the saving act-giving him victory over Israel-and once the instructions are obeyed, God heals him. Naaman’s confession is awkward: he confesses Yahweh as supreme and offers a payoff. No matter, Elisha sends him off with a blessing and he leaves healthy with skin "like that of a child" (verse 14).

 

[2] What do you think was Naaman’s biggest problem? Leprosy? Temper? Pride? Attitude?

Why was it difficult to follow the prophet’s instructions? Too unsophisticated? Not fitting to a dignitary? Not the common healing ritual of the day?

In what way have you experienced God’s saving help?

block #1 - Retell the story in a way that engages listeners and frees them to imagine the story. [3]

block #2 - Describe Naaman so that the listener is aware of need, motive, arrogance, and non-covenantal status to God of Israel.

block #3 - Draw lessons from the story: [possible ideas]: God is owned by no one and will cross boundaries and break through barriers to offer saving help to those who call on God’s name.

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[1] New Interpreter’s Bible III (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1999), page 197.
[2] Serendipity Bible (Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing Co., 1998), page 354.
[3] To get a sense of the movement and interplay of characters, read the story several times aloud in The Message (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002), page 622.