Gehazi: Profiting in African Christianity from diseases, poverty, demons and death

Abstract

This article examines the spiritual merchandising in African Christianity in light of the narrative regarding Gehazi in the Old Testament. In Africa, faith-based healing and deliverance are performed on an exploitative basis and for personal enrichment. Many Africans experience physical and spiritual challenges, making them vulnerable in the hands of these exploitative prophets and pastors. These challenges are the reasons why religious leaders commercialise healing, deliverance, exorcism and prophecy. Existing literature has failed to address this issue through the lens of Gehazi in 2 Kings 5:20–27. This study adopts the narrative method, using data from the pericope and relevant academic literature. The study shows that under no circumstances should spiritual gifts be for sale. This study further shows that deception attracts God’s judgement. Furthermore, the narrative shows that greed corrupts one’s ministry.
Contribution: The study highlights the importance of contentment. The church in Africa should prioritise spiritual growth, integrity, contentment and honesty in mission and ministerial work. Christian teachings should be centred on spiritual transformation rather than emphasising miracles and deliverance.