LEPROSY — A Warning That Showed the Need for God’s Healing

Bible Setting: Leviticus 13–14; Numbers 12; 2 Kings 5

In Bible times, leprosy was a serious skin disease that caused great fear. People with leprosy often had painful sores and patches on their skin. Because the disease could spread, God gave special laws to protect the community. Those with leprosy had to stay away from others so no one else would get sick.

God used leprosy in a few important stories to teach His people about obedience, respect, and the need for spiritual cleansing.

One example is Miriam, Moses’ sister. When she spoke pridefully against Moses, God allowed her to become leprous for a time. Moses prayed for her, and God healed her after seven days. This showed that God takes our words and attitudes seriously.

Another story is about Naaman, a great commander from Syria. He had leprosy and was desperate for help. God healed him through the prophet Elisha—but only after he humbled himself and obeyed God’s simple instruction to wash in the Jordan River seven times.

Leprosy in the Bible is more than a sickness—it’s a picture of how sin works. Just like leprosy spreads and harms the body, sin harms our hearts and relationships. And just like God provided healing for leprosy, He is the one who heals us from sin when we turn to Him.

Leprosy teaches kids that God cares about both our bodies and our hearts. It shows that pride and disobedience separate us from others, but humility and repentance bring healing and restoration.

In The Good Fight card game, Leprosy represents sin’s damage and the need for God’s healing power. When kids draw this card, they learn that turning to God brings cleansing, hope, and strength.