Just Because You're In, Does Not Mean You're All In
In this message, Brother Damon delivers a powerful sermon rooted in 2 Kings 5, focusing on the story of Naaman, Elisha, and Gehazi. He begins by recounting Naaman’s journey to healing from leprosy—a disease that rendered him an outcast—through obedience to Elisha’s instructions, given by the power of God. Despite his initial reluctance and pride, Naaman follows Elisha’s directive to dip in the Jordan River seven times and is miraculously healed. This transformative act leads Naaman to acknowledge the one true God.
However, Brother Damon shifts the focus from Naaman to Gehazi, Elisha’s servant, who represents a tragic example of misplaced priorities. Gehazi, despite being constantly in the presence of God’s work and miracles, is driven by greed and self-interest. After Elisha refuses Naaman’s gifts as a testament to God’s grace, Gehazi deceitfully pursues Naaman, asking for the gifts under false pretenses. This act of dishonesty results in Gehazi being cursed with the very leprosy that Naaman was healed from, illustrating the consequences of self-serving actions in contrast to faithfulness and humility.
The sermon emphasizes that simply being in a godly environment, participating in church activities, or holding a position in ministry does not equate to a genuine relationship with God. Brother Damon warns against complacency and performing religious duties out of habit or for personal gain. He challenges listeners to examine their motives, asking if their actions are truly centered on glorifying God or if they are driven by self-interest or routine.
Drawing on examples of false prophets and misguided church members, he stresses the importance of aligning one’s heart with Christ and striving for sanctification—a lifelong process of becoming more like Christ in thought, attitude, and action. Sanctification, he explains, is not about perfection but about consistent growth and a genuine desire to honor God.
The message concludes with a call for self-evaluation. Brother Damon encourages believers to reflect on their spiritual growth, rediscover their love for God, and ensure their faith is not merely performative but rooted in a deep, transformative relationship with Christ. He reminds the congregation that true faith involves not just being present in church or ministry but being fully committed—“all in”—for God.