Sermons

Summary: The story of the lepers teaches us that no one is too broken, too rejected, or too far gone to be used by God. Divine purpose is not confined by human labels or limitations.

WHEN GOD USES THE REJECTED

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 2 Kings 7:3-11

Supporting Texts: 1 Corinthians 1:27-29; Judges 6:14-16; Isaiah 61:1-3; Psalm 118:22; Acts 4:13

INTRODUCTION:

This portion of 2 Kings 7 introduces us to four leprous men—men rejected by society, dwelling at the entrance of the city gate during a time of national famine. While the king and his officials were locked in panic and helplessness, it was these outcasts who became the unlikely instruments of divine breakthrough.

Their decision to move in spite of their condition brought about not only their own deliverance but also the salvation of the entire city. God bypassed the palace and the elite, and chose the despised and discarded to fulfil prophecy. This is the nature of God: He delights in using the weak to confound the strong.

Their story teaches us that no one is too broken, too rejected, or too far gone to be used by God. Divine purpose is not confined by human labels or limitations.

1. GOD OFTEN CHOOSES THE REJECTED FOR HIS PURPOSES

These lepers were social outcasts, yet they became divine messengers.

a) They sat at the gate—excluded from normal life (v.3)

Life had written them off, but God had not.

b) They could have died in pity, but they dared to move forward

They asked, “Why sit we here until we die?”—a question of destiny.

c) God can use those the world avoids

Man’s rejection often becomes God’s platform.

d) Being unwanted by men does not make you unusable by God

God does not choose by appearance but by purpose.

Biblical Example: David was left out when Samuel came to anoint a king (1 Samuel 16:11-13).

2. DESPERATION CAN BIRTH DESTINY

Their situation was bad—but their response was bold.

a) The lepers evaluated their options and chose movement over stagnation (v.4)

Faith is often wrapped in risky decisions.

b) God responds when we take steps in spite of fear

Their journey triggered divine intervention.

c) Great changes often begin with small, desperate decisions

Don’t wait for ideal conditions—move in faith.

d) Your miracle may be on the other side of a difficult choice

They walked into the camp—and found abundance.

Biblical Example: The woman with the issue of blood reached out in her desperation and was healed (Mark 5:25-29).

3. DIVINE INTERVENTION MEETS HUMAN OBEDIENCE

While they moved, God acted.

a) God made their footsteps sound like a mighty army (v.6)

He amplified their effort to cause fear in the enemy’s camp.

b) Heaven supports the obedient—even if they’re weak in the natural

Little steps of faith carry supernatural weight.

c) God often waits for man to move before He manifests

Faith is the trigger for heaven’s involvement.

d) What looked like a foolish risk became a national deliverance

Their obedience opened the door for prophecy to be fulfilled.

Biblical Example: The Red Sea only parted after Moses stretched out his rod (Exodus 14:16).

4. THE GOOD NEWS IS MEANT TO BE SHARED

They didn’t keep the miracle to themselves.

a) After enjoying the spoils, their conscience spoke (v.9)

A true encounter with divine provision leads to responsibility.

b) They said, “We do not well”—convicted to inform others

Selfishness in seasons of breakthrough can hinder future favour.

c) Good news is only good when it is shared

They returned to the city and reported what they found.

d) Evangelism is often powered by those who have tasted God’s mercy

From outcasts to messengers—they became bearers of hope.

Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman told her city after meeting Jesus (John 4:28-30).

5. GOD’S VESSELS ARE NOT LIMITED BY THEIR CONDITION

Your past or affliction doesn’t disqualify you from divine use.

a) Leprosy did not hinder their usefulness in God’s plan

Their physical state didn’t block their prophetic role.

b) God sees the willing, not just the worthy

Their hearts and obedience made them candidates for glory.

c) Divine purpose can flow through broken vessels

What matters is availability, not perfection.

d) Your scars can be the platform for someone else’s salvation

Don’t disqualify yourself—God hasn’t.

Biblical Example: Rahab the harlot became part of Jesus’ lineage (Matthew 1:5).

CONCLUSION:

The story of the four lepers in 2 Kings 7 is a testimony that God delights in using unlikely people. They were outside the system, yet central to God's plan. They had no credentials, yet carried the solution. What made the difference? They moved when others froze in fear.

No matter your background, pain, or condition, God can still use you. Don’t sit in self-pity—rise and move. Your steps of obedience may just unlock the miracle for a generation.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, use me despite my weakness and limitations.

2. Help me to respond in faith, even when the odds are against me.

3. Father, let my life become a channel of deliverance to others.

4. I break free from fear, stagnation, and self-pity in Jesus’ name.

5. Let my obedience provoke supernatural breakthroughs.

Copy Sermon to Clipboard with PRO

Talk about it...

Nobody has commented yet. Be the first!

Join the discussion
;