Was Samson too much in love with the Philistines, or with himself? Either way, he had a fatal flaw. Or flaws.
Ark at Beth Shemesh
1 Samuel 6:13-18
The people destroyed
1 Samuel 6:19-21
The ark taken to Kiriath Jearim
1 Samuel 7:1-2
12th Judge, Ibzan
Judges 12:8-10
Samson and the Philistines
Judges 15:3-19
Samson’s escape
1 Samuel 16: 1-3
Saul’s marriage and family
1 Samuel 14:49-50
13th Judge, Elon
Judges 12:11-12
Samson & Delilah
Judges 16:4-22
Samson’s death
Judges 16:23-31
Revival at Mizpeh
1 Samuel 7:3-8
The ark returns to Israel, but it is a dangerous thing. 70 people die for looking into it )curiosity got the better of them) and the people of Beth Shemesh want it moved on. The good folk at Kiriath Jearim look after it more carefully, and make a temporary home for it for 20 years.
Now the tragedy of Samson unfolds. First we have number 3 in the list of unusual deaths, as Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey as his weapon of choice. But the Philistines find his weakness - he cannot refuse a woman. Delilah wheedles the secret of his strength out of him, he is captured, blinded and imprisoned. The final act of the drama is his revenge on the triumphant Philistines, bringing down their temple on their heads in the midst of their celebrations.
Finally, there is a sign that the people are ready for a heartfelt turning back to God. Ashamed of their loss of the ark, they turn to Samuel to lead them back to God. This time, instead of fighting the Philistines, they ask Samuel to pray. Will the outcome be better? Tomorrow will tell.
No comments:
Post a Comment