Scripture Reading: 2 Kings 7:3–9

Introduction

A. When famine engulfed the besieged city of Samaria and four lepers found the enemy’s camp deserted, they decided that they must report their discovery, for it was “a day of glad tidings.”

B. Good tidings have likewise been made known to us. Will we share them with others, or will we keep them to ourselves?

Discussion

I. We have learned some great news.

A. Like the four lepers, God has brought us back from the point of certain death (Ephesians 2:5; John 5:24).

B. The good news that revived us is that Christ died and rose again to save us from sin (Ephesians 2:6; Romans 6:4).

C. Not only has this news saved us; it has also enriched us beyond measure (Ephesians 2:7; 3:8; Hebrews 11:26).

II. What will happen if we keep these glad tidings to ourselves?

A. Millions will perish (2 Kings 7:10; Romans 11:13–14).

B. Some mischief will befall us (Ezekiel 3:18–21; 1 Corinthians 9:16).

III. There is no excuse for failing to spread the good news.

A. “No one will believe me” (cf. 2 Kings 7:12ff; 1 Corinthians 3:7).

B. “It could cause turmoil” (cf. 2 Kings 7:17; Acts 8:1).

C. “They don’t deserve it” (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:9–10).

Conclusion

A. We should earnestly desire to share the good news with others.

B. If the people Jesus healed physically couldn’t keep quiet when they were supposed to, why should we, whom Jesus has healed spiritually, fail to speak up when commanded to do just that!