Judges 16:3

But Samson lay there only until midnight, when he got up, took hold of the doors of the city gate and both gateposts, and pulled them out, bar and all. Then he put them on his shoulders and took them to the top of the mountain overlooking Hebron.

Study Bible

But Samson lay there only until midnight
Samson's actions in Gaza, a Philistine city, reflect his complex character. His decision to stay until midnight suggests a strategic move, possibly to avoid detection. Midnight often symbolizes a time of transition or divine intervention in Scripture, as seen in the Passover event in Exodus 12:29-31.

when he got up, took hold of the doors of the city gate and both gateposts
The city gate was a symbol of strength and security. By taking hold of the gates, Samson demonstrates his extraordinary God-given strength. Gates were central to a city's defense, and removing them would leave the city vulnerable, symbolizing the power of God over the Philistines.

and pulled them out, bar and all
This phrase emphasizes the completeness of Samson's feat. The bar was a locking mechanism, and removing it along with the gates signifies total domination. This act foreshadows the ultimate victory of God over His enemies, reminiscent of Christ's triumph over sin and death.

Then he put them on his shoulders
Carrying the gates on his shoulders highlights Samson as a type of Christ, who bore the weight of the world's sins on His shoulders. This imagery connects to Isaiah 9:6, where the government is said to be upon the Messiah's shoulders.

and took them to the top of the mountain overlooking Hebron
Hebron, a significant city in Israel's history, was a place of refuge and the burial site of the patriarchs. By taking the gates to a mountain near Hebron, Samson not only humiliates the Philistines but also symbolically returns the strength and glory to Israel. This act prefigures Christ's ascension, where He leads captivity captive (Ephesians 4:8).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his extraordinary strength, which was a gift from God. His life is a mixture of great feats and personal failings.

2. Gaza
A Philistine city where Samson was staying. The Philistines were enemies of Israel, and Gaza was one of their principal cities.

3. City Gate
The gates of a city were significant for defense and commerce. Samson's act of removing the gates was a symbolic gesture of defiance and strength.

4. Hebron
A city in Judah, significant in Israelite history. Samson carrying the gates to a hill facing Hebron symbolizes a triumph over the Philistines.

5. Philistines
The people who ruled over parts of Israel during Samson's time. They were often in conflict with the Israelites.

Teaching Points

God's Strength in Our Weakness
Samson's physical strength was a gift from God, reminding us that our abilities and successes are not of our own making but are given by God for His purposes.

Symbolic Acts of Defiance
Samson's removal of the gates was not just a physical act but a symbolic one, demonstrating God's power over the enemies of Israel. We are called to stand firm in faith, knowing that God is greater than any opposition we face.

The Importance of Obedience
Despite his strength, Samson's life was marred by disobedience and personal failings. This serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of aligning our lives with God's will.

God's Sovereignty and Redemption
Even in Samson's flawed life, God worked His purposes. This encourages us that God can use us despite our imperfections.

The Role of Faith
Samson's inclusion in Hebrews 11 reminds us that faith is not about perfection but about trusting God and His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Samson's act of carrying the city gates to Hebron symbolize about God's power over our enemies?

2. How can we apply the lesson of God's strength in our weakness to our personal challenges today?

3. In what ways does Samson's life serve as both an example and a warning for us as believers?

4. How does the account of Samson connect with other biblical accounts of God empowering individuals to overcome great odds?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's strength in your life. How did it change your perspective on your own abilities and limitations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 13-16
The broader account of Samson's life, including his birth, exploits, and eventual downfall, provides context for his actions in Judges 16:3.

Hebrews 11:32-34
Samson is mentioned in the "Faith Hall of Fame," highlighting his faith despite his flaws.

1 Samuel 17
David's victory over Goliath, another instance of God empowering an individual to overcome Israel's enemies.