Summary of my sermon, based on 2 Kings 5:1-5. Preached at Greenhills Christian Fellowship Toronto on September 17, 2023.
Last week, Pastor Robert preached from Philippians 1:27-30, emphasizing the importance of living in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Today, we continue to explore pertinent issues that challenge our Christian values in contemporary Western culture—Gender Ideology, Abortion, and Medical Aid in Dying. These issues are not just personal opinions but Gospel issues that test our faith in a world increasingly hostile to Christianity.
In today’s society, Gender Ideology, Abortion, and Medical Aid in Dying have become dominant cultural issues that stand in contrast to our Christian values. These challenges reflect a rejection of Yahweh, the God who created us male and female, knit us together in our mother’s wombs, and remains sovereign over all, including life and death. As Christians, we find ourselves in the midst of a cultural conflict where our beliefs are increasingly marginalized.
In a world filled with hostility towards our faith, the question arises: How do we remain faithful? This question seamlessly leads us to our scripture passage for today, 2 Kings 5, where we encounter the story of Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, and a nameless Israelite servant girl. Their lives exemplify important lessons for us in times of adversity.
Commander of the Army of the King of Syria
Naaman, despite his prestigious position as the commander of the Syrian army, suffered from leprosy, a debilitating and highly contagious disease. This affliction was a humbling reminder that earthly status cannot shield us from suffering. In Naaman, we see that even the mighty can experience vulnerability and seek redemption.
The Israelite Servant Girl
The nameless Israelite servant girl, captured during a Syrian raid, displayed extraordinary faith and compassion. Instead of harboring resentment towards Naaman, she directed him to the Prophet in Samaria, knowing that he could heal Naaman’s leprosy. Her response serves as a remarkable example of forgiveness and love in the face of adversity.
As Christians facing hostility in the world, we are called to emulate the faith and forgiveness demonstrated by the Israelite servant girl. While it may be tempting to respond with anger and resentment, the Bible instructs us differently. In Jeremiah 29:7, we are encouraged to seek the welfare of the city where we reside and pray for its well-being. Jesus Himself teaches us to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us (Luke 6:27–28).
Point to Christ
Our ultimate example of faith and forgiveness is found in Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us that God is patient, desiring that all should reach repentance, and 1 Timothy 4:10 highlights that God is the Savior of all people, especially those who believe. As followers of Christ, our mission is to spread His message of love, redemption, and forgiveness, even in the face of hostility.
Jim Elliot, a passionate Christian missionary, exemplified the principles of faith and forgiveness. Alongside his companions, he sought to bring the message of Jesus to the Huaorani tribe in the Amazon rainforest of Ecuador. Tragically, they were martyred by the tribe, but their widows, including Elisabeth Elliot, chose a path of forgiveness.
Elisabeth Elliot and Rachel Saint, instead of seeking revenge, chose to live among the Huaorani people. They learned their language and culture, ultimately introducing them to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The transformation that followed was profound, as former violent tribe members embraced forgiveness, love, and redemption through Christ.
In a world marked by hostility towards our faith, the stories of Naaman and Jim Elliot provide valuable lessons. We are called to respond to adversity with faith, forgiveness, and love. Just as the Israelite servant girl directed Naaman to healing, we are tasked with pointing others to the ultimate source of redemption—Jesus Christ. As we navigate the clash of values in our culture, may we remain faithful witnesses, living out our faith with grace and compassion, even when faced with hostility.
Excel Still More 