The Old Testament is often overlooked or dismissed by those who claim that because we are under the New Covenant, it no longer serves a purpose. However, the apostle Paul stated otherwise: “For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” (Romans 15:4, NASB). The lessons of the Old Testament are not irrelevant; they serve as powerful examples, shadows of New Testament truths, and warnings for those who seek to walk with God today.
One of the most striking examples of faith and obedience found in the Old Testament is the story of Naaman, a powerful Syrian commander afflicted with leprosy. His encounter with the prophet Elisha reveals key principles about faith, obedience, and submission to God’s word. Through his story, we see that faith is not just about belief—it must be expressed in action. The question for us today is: Do we have the kind of faith that moves us to obey God completely, even when His commands seem simple, inconvenient, or unnecessary?
1. The Reality of Faith and Obedience
Naaman was a great man, respected by his king and victorious in battle, but he was also a leper (2 Kings 5:1). No amount of wealth, power, or prestige could change his condition. Sin is much the same. No matter how successful or admired a person is, sin leaves them spiritually diseased and separated from God (Romans 3:23).
When Naaman was told about Elisha, the prophet of God, he went seeking healing. But instead of meeting Elisha in person, a messenger relayed simple instructions: “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh will be restored to you and you will be clean.” (2 Kings 5:10, NASB). Naaman was furious! He expected something grand, something dramatic. Instead, he was given an instruction that seemed beneath his dignity.
How many today respond the same way when confronted with God’s commands? Baptism, for instance, is seen by many as unnecessary or merely symbolic, yet Jesus said: “The one who has believed and has been baptized will be saved; but the one who has not believed will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16, NASB). Faith without action is incomplete. Naaman’s healing came only when he obeyed fully and washed seven times in the Jordan (2 Kings 5:14). Likewise, we must obey God’s word completely, without arguing or seeking alternatives that fit our own reasoning.
2. Faith That Moves Us to Action
Faith is never passive. Hebrews 11 gives numerous examples of those who acted on their belief. “By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household…” (Hebrews 11:7, NASB). “By faith Abraham, when he was called, obeyed by going out to a place which he was to receive for an inheritance; and he left, not knowing where he was going.” (Hebrews 11:8, NASB). True faith is accompanied by obedience.
James reinforces this truth: “Even so faith, if it has no works, is dead, being by itself.” (James 2:17, NASB). Many claim to believe in Christ but refuse to obey His commands fully. They rationalize partial obedience or rely on their feelings rather than the clear instructions of Scripture. Just as Naaman was not cleansed until he followed Elisha’s exact command, we cannot expect salvation if we only accept part of what God requires.
3. The Danger of Substituting Human Wisdom for God’s Word
Naaman initially rejected Elisha’s command, believing the rivers of Damascus were superior to the Jordan. He asked, “Are Abanah and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, not better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them and be clean?” (2 Kings 5:12, NASB). His pride almost cost him his healing.
Today, many reject the necessity of baptism, the exclusivity of the church, or the moral commands of Scripture because they believe their way is better. But God does not ask for our opinions—He asks for our submission. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. (Isaiah 55:8, NASB).
The world is full of religious traditions and human creeds, yet only God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). Adding to or taking away from His instructions is dangerous (Revelation 22:18-19). Just as Naaman had to trust that God’s way was the only way, we must put aside human reasoning and submit to divine authority.
4. The Cleansing Power of God’s Command
Naaman’s healing occurred not because the Jordan had magical properties, but because he obeyed in faith. The power was in God’s command, not the water itself. This parallels baptism, where the water itself does not save, but obedience to God’s command brings the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
Consider what Jesus said: “He who has believed and has been baptized will be saved; but he who has not believed will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16, NASB). Yet, many argue against baptism’s necessity, just as Naaman resisted washing in the Jordan. But God’s instructions are not open for debate. If we desire salvation, we must accept His terms without alteration.
Conclusion
Naaman’s story is a powerful illustration of faith, obedience, and the necessity of following God’s commands without alteration. His healing did not come until he humbled himself and obeyed completely. The same is true for us today.
Faith alone is not enough. “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” (James 2:24, NASB). We must act on our faith, trusting that God’s way is best even when it seems too simple, too difficult, or unnecessary in human reasoning.
Jesus is our ultimate example. He submitted fully to the will of the Father (Philippians 2:8), and He calls us to follow Him. Have you obeyed the gospel fully? Have you been baptized into Christ, as He commanded? Like Naaman, you have a choice: remain in your condition or humble yourself before God and be cleansed.
Will you obey, or will you walk away still in need of healing?
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