And if any man said to him, "The fat must be burned first; then you may take whatever you want," the servant would reply, "No, you must give it to me right now. If you refuse, I will take it by force!" And if any man said to him, “The fat must be burned first; then you may take whatever you want,”In the sacrificial system outlined in Leviticus, the fat of the offering was to be burned on the altar as a pleasing aroma to the Lord (Leviticus 3:16). This was a commandment given by God, signifying the best part of the sacrifice being offered to Him. The priests, however, were entitled to certain portions of the sacrifice after the fat was burned (Leviticus 7:31-34). The man’s insistence on burning the fat first reflects a desire to adhere to the proper worship practices and honor God’s commandments. This phrase highlights the tension between the corrupt practices of Eli’s sons and the faithful Israelites who sought to follow God’s law. the servant would reply, “No, you must give it to me right now. If you refuse, I will take it by force!” Persons / Places / Events 1. Eli's Sons (Hophni and Phinehas)The sons of Eli, the high priest, who were corrupt and abused their priestly duties, leading to God's judgment against them. 2. Shiloh The religious center where the tabernacle was located during this period, and where Eli and his sons served as priests. 3. The Sacrificial System The context of this verse involves the sacrificial offerings made by the Israelites, which were being mishandled by Eli's sons. 4. The Israelites The people bringing sacrifices to the tabernacle, who were being exploited by the priests. 5. The Servant Likely a servant of Eli's sons, who enforced their corrupt practices. Teaching Points Respect for God's CommandsThe actions of Eli's sons demonstrate a blatant disregard for God's instructions. As believers, we must prioritize obedience to God's Word, respecting His commands in all aspects of life. The Consequences of Sin The account of Eli's sons serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and corruption, especially for those in positions of spiritual leadership. Integrity in Leadership Spiritual leaders are called to a higher standard. Eli's sons failed in their duties, reminding us of the importance of integrity and accountability in leadership roles. The Importance of Proper Worship Worship should be conducted in a manner that honors God. The improper handling of sacrifices by Eli's sons underscores the need for reverence and adherence to God's instructions in worship. God's Justice The eventual judgment on Eli's house illustrates that God is just and will not tolerate ongoing sin, encouraging us to live righteously and seek His forgiveness. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the behavior of Eli's sons contrast with the instructions given in Leviticus regarding sacrifices, and what does this teach us about the importance of following God's commands?2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and service to God are conducted with integrity and reverence? 3. Reflect on a time when you faced a temptation to misuse a position of authority. How can the account of Eli's sons guide you in making righteous decisions? 4. How does the concept of God's justice, as seen in the judgment of Eli's house, influence your understanding of accountability in your spiritual walk? 5. What steps can you take to ensure that your actions and decisions align with God's will, especially when faced with pressure to conform to ungodly practices? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 3:16This verse outlines the proper handling of sacrificial offerings, emphasizing that the fat belongs to the Lord, highlighting the sin of Eli's sons in taking what was meant for God. 1 Samuel 2:12-17 Provides a broader context of the corrupt practices of Eli's sons, showing their disdain for the Lord's offerings. Malachi 1:6-14 Discusses the dishonor shown to God through improper sacrifices, paralleling the disrespect shown by Eli's sons. Hebrews 10:26-31 Warns against willful sin after receiving knowledge of the truth, relevant to the deliberate disobedience of Eli's sons.
People Eli, Elkanah, Hannah, Hophni, Israelites, Pharaoh, Phinehas, SamuelPlaces Egypt, Ramah, ShilohTopics Burn, Burned, Desire, Desires, Desireth, Entire, Fail, Fat, Force, I'll, Immediately, Nay, Perfume, Presently, Servant, Smoke, Soul, Strength, Surely, To-day, Whatever, WishDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 2:12-16 5311 extortion Library The Child Prophet'And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision. 2. And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; 8. And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; 4. That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. 5. And he ran onto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Reverence in Worship. The Knowledge of God Though the Fore-Mentioned Eternal Moral Obligations Letter xxix. To Marcella. A Private Enquiry Appendix xix. On Eternal Punishment, According to the Rabbis and the New Testament Covenanting a Privilege of Believers. The Mystery Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory. Sanctification. Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity. The Sun Rising Upon a Dark World Entire Sanctification The Holiness of God Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C. Samuel Links 1 Samuel 2:16 NIV1 Samuel 2:16 NLT 1 Samuel 2:16 ESV 1 Samuel 2:16 NASB 1 Samuel 2:16 KJV 1 Samuel 2:16 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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