You will see distress in My dwelling place. Despite all that is good in Israel, no one in your house will ever again reach old age. You will see distress in My dwelling place.This phrase refers to the impending judgment on the house of Eli, the high priest, due to the corruption and wickedness of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. The "dwelling place" signifies the tabernacle at Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This distress foreshadows the capture of the Ark by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4:11) and the subsequent desolation of Shiloh. The distress also symbolizes the spiritual decline of Israel during this period, highlighting the need for faithful leadership. This serves as a reminder of the holiness required in God's service and the consequences of failing to uphold it. Despite all that is good in Israel, no one in your house will ever again reach old age. Persons / Places / Events 1. EliThe high priest of Israel during the time of Samuel's birth. His family is the subject of God's judgment due to the sins of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. 2. Hophni and Phinehas Eli's sons, who were priests but acted wickedly, showing contempt for the Lord's offerings and engaging in immoral behavior. 3. Shiloh The location of the tabernacle where Eli served as priest. It was the religious center of Israel before the temple was built in Jerusalem. 4. Samuel A young boy dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, who would later become a prophet and judge over Israel. 5. The House of Eli Refers to Eli's family line, which was under God's judgment due to their unfaithfulness and corruption. Teaching Points The Consequences of SinThe passage highlights the severe consequences of unrepentant sin, especially for those in spiritual leadership. It serves as a warning to maintain integrity and faithfulness to God's commands. God's Sovereignty and Justice God's judgment on Eli's house demonstrates His sovereignty and commitment to justice. He holds individuals accountable, especially those in positions of influence. The Importance of Godly Leadership The failure of Eli's sons underscores the need for godly leadership in the community of faith. Leaders are called to set an example and lead with righteousness. The Role of the Family in Spiritual Formation Eli's failure to discipline his sons serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual guidance and discipline within the family. Hope and Redemption Despite the judgment on Eli's house, God raises up Samuel, showing that He can bring about renewal and hope even in times of distress. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the judgment on Eli's house reflect the importance of holiness and integrity in spiritual leadership?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are not repeating the mistakes of Eli's sons in our own lives and communities? 3. How does the account of Eli and his sons challenge us to examine the spiritual health of our families and the influence we have on the next generation? 4. What does this passage teach us about God's character, particularly His justice and mercy? 5. How can we find hope and encouragement in God's ability to raise up faithful leaders like Samuel, even in times of spiritual decline? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 3:11-14God confirms His judgment on Eli's house, emphasizing the seriousness of their sins and the irrevocable nature of the punishment. 1 Kings 2:27 Solomon fulfills the prophecy by removing Abiathar, a descendant of Eli, from the priesthood, thus ending Eli's line in the priestly office. Psalm 78:60-64 Describes God's rejection of Shiloh and the consequences of Israel's unfaithfulness, which aligns with the judgment on Eli's house.
People Eli, Elkanah, Hannah, Hophni, Israelites, Pharaoh, Phinehas, SamuelPlaces Egypt, Ramah, ShilohTopics Adversary, Affliction, Although, Amidst, Beheld, Behold, Bestowed, Distress, Dwelling, Enemy, Envious, Eye, Family, Forever, Habitation, Hast, Line, Oppressor, Prosperity, Rival, Spite, WealthDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 2:27-36 5340 house 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 2:32 NIV1 Samuel 2:32 NLT 1 Samuel 2:32 ESV 1 Samuel 2:32 NASB 1 Samuel 2:32 KJV 1 Samuel 2:32 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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