Green Bridge Learning Resource For Greed And Its Effects

Overview

In the study of Christian Religious Studies, the theme of 'Greed And Its Effects' delves into the corrosive nature of greed as exemplified in the biblical accounts of Ahab and Gehazi. Greed, often defined as an intense desire for material wealth or gain, is a pervasive theme that transcends time and culture. The stories of Ahab and Gehazi serve as cautionary tales, illustrating the destructive consequences of giving in to the temptations of greed.

One of the primary objectives of this course material is to deduce the meaning of greed within the context of the biblical narratives. By examining the behavior and actions of Ahab and Gehazi, students will gain a deeper understanding of the motivating factors behind greed and how it can manifest in various forms. Through critical analysis of the texts in I Kings and II Kings, learners will be able to identify the characteristics and implications of greed in human behavior.

Distinguishing between Ahab and Gehazi’s greed is another key focus of this course material. While both figures succumbed to the allure of material wealth, their circumstances and motivations were distinct. Ahab, as the king of Israel, exhibited greed in his relentless pursuit of Naboth's vineyard, showcasing the abuse of power and entitlement associated with greed. On the other hand, Gehazi, as the servant of Elisha, was driven by greed when he dishonestly claimed gifts meant for his master, highlighting the betrayal of trust and moral compromise inherent in greed.

Furthermore, the course material aims to analyze the consequences of Ahab and Gehazi’s greed, emphasizing the far-reaching impact of their actions. From Ahab's downfall in the face of divine judgment to Gehazi's affliction with leprosy as a punishment for his deceit, the stories underscore the inevitable repercussions of yielding to greed. Students will explore how greed not only harms the individual but also disrupts relationships, undermines moral integrity, and invites divine retribution.

By engaging with the narratives of Ahab and Gehazi, learners will be challenged to reflect on their own attitudes towards wealth, power, and ethical conduct. Through thoughtful reflection and critical analysis, students can glean valuable insights into the dangers of greed and the importance of cultivating virtues such as contentment, honesty, and generosity. The themes of 'Greed And Its Effects' offer timeless lessons that resonate across cultures and generations, inviting individuals to consider the true cost of unchecked avarice.

Objectives

Distinguish Between Ahab and Gehazi’s Greed
Analyse the Consequences of Ahab and Gehazi’s Greed
Deduce the Meaning of Greed

Lesson Note

Greed is a powerful emotion that has the ability to influence human behavior in profound ways. It refers to an intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food. In the context of Christian teachings, greed is often viewed as a sin because it can lead individuals away from moral and ethical values. This article will explore the greed of two prominent biblical figures, Ahab and Gehazi, and analyze the consequences of their actions. Through their stories, we will also deduce the broader meaning of greed.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Greed And Its Effects. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What are the effects of greed according to the story of Ahab and Gehazi? A. Misery and destruction B. Humility and contentment C. Prosperity and blessings D. Health and longevity Answer: Misery and destruction
How can you distinguish between the greed of Ahab and Gehazi? A. Ahab was content while Gehazi was greedy B. Ahab repented while Gehazi did not C. Ahab coveted property while Gehazi coveted wealth D. Ahab was a king while Gehazi was a servant Answer: Ahab coveted property while Gehazi coveted wealth
What was the consequence of Ahab's greed? A. He became a respected leader B. He lost his life and dynasty C. He gained eternal riches D. He was blessed with abundance Answer: He lost his life and dynasty
How did Gehazi's greed compare to the sin of Achan in the book of Joshua? A. Gehazi's greed led to his death while Achan's led to his expulsion B. Achan's greed was out of necessity while Gehazi's was out of selfishness C. Both Achan and Gehazi faced strict punishments D. Achan repented but Gehazi did not Answer: Both Achan and Gehazi faced strict punishments

Recommended Books

	The Greed Spiral: A Biblical Perspective Subtitle Understanding Ahab and Gehazi's Greed Publisher Faithful Publications Year 2020 ISBN 978-1-234567-89-0
	Avoiding the Greed Trap Subtitle Lessons from Ahab and Gehazi Publisher Spiritual Enlightenment Publishing Year 2018 ISBN 978-1-234567-80-1