(Now his father and mother did not know this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines; for at that time the Philistines were ruling over Israel.) Now his father and mother did not knowThis phrase highlights the limited understanding of Samson's parents regarding the divine plan. In Hebrew culture, parental guidance was highly esteemed, yet here, their lack of knowledge underscores the mysterious ways in which God operates. The Hebrew root for "know" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate understanding, suggesting that God's plans often transcend human comprehension. that this was from the LORD who was seeking an occasion to move against the Philistines for at that time the Philistines were ruling over Israel Persons / Places / Events 1. SamsonA judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God. He was set apart as a Nazirite from birth. 2. Philistines A group of people who were enemies of Israel. They occupied the land and often oppressed the Israelites during the time of the Judges. 3. Timnah A town in Philistine territory where Samson went to find a wife, which was against the traditional Israelite custom of marrying within their own people. 4. Samson's Parents Manoah and his wife, who were initially hesitant about Samson's desire to marry a Philistine woman, as it went against their cultural and religious norms. 5. The LORD The sovereign God of Israel, who had a divine plan that was unfolding through Samson's actions, even when they seemed contrary to His laws. Teaching Points God's Sovereignty in Human AffairsDespite human choices that seem contrary to God's commands, His sovereign plan prevails. Samson's desire to marry a Philistine woman was part of God's plan to confront the Philistines. Divine Purpose in Unlikely Circumstances God can use even our flawed decisions to fulfill His purposes. Samson's actions, though questionable, were used by God to begin delivering Israel from Philistine oppression. The Importance of Seeking God's Will While God can use our mistakes, it is crucial to seek His guidance and align our actions with His will to avoid unnecessary consequences. Cultural and Spiritual Discernment Believers are called to discern cultural practices and relationships that may lead them away from God's commands, as seen in the tension between Samson's desires and Israelite law. Trust in God's Greater Plan Even when circumstances seem confusing or contrary to God's laws, trust that He is working out a greater plan for His glory and our good. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Samson's choice to marry a Philistine woman reflect the tension between cultural desires and spiritual obedience?2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in situations that seem contrary to His commands, as seen in Judges 14:4? 3. How can Romans 8:28 provide comfort when we make decisions that don't align perfectly with God's will? 4. What lessons can we learn from Samson's account about the importance of seeking God's guidance in our relationships and decisions? 5. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God's greater plan to our own lives, especially when facing confusing or challenging circumstances? Connections to Other Scriptures Judges 13Provides background on Samson's birth and the Nazirite vow, setting the stage for his role as a judge and his unique relationship with God. Deuteronomy 7 Discusses the command for Israelites not to intermarry with other nations, highlighting the tension in Samson's choice to pursue a Philistine woman. Romans 8:28 Illustrates the principle that God can work through all situations for the good of those who love Him, even when human actions seem misguided.
People Samson, TimnahPlaces Ashkelon, TimnahTopics Confront, Destruction, Didn't, Dominion, However, Meeting, Mind, Occasion, Philistines, Purpose, Rule, Ruling, Seeking, SoughtDictionary of Bible Themes Judges 14:48410 decision-making, examples Library Introductory Remarks. We present here, by way of an Appendix to our argument for the Divinity of Christ, a collection of the more remarkable testimonies of unbelievers to the character of Christ, arranged in chronological order, and accompanied with explanatory notes. Dr. Nathaniel Lardner (born in 1684, died in 1768), although a Socinian, or Unitarian, in his views on Christ's person, did excellent service to the cause of revealed religion against the Deism of his day by his truly learned and valuable work on the "Credibility … Philip Schaff—The Person of Christ Whether the Temptation of God Consists in Certain Deeds, Wherein the Expected Result is Ascribed to the Power of God Alone? The Exile --Continued. The Earliest Chapters in Divine Revelation Jesus Works his First Miracle at Cana in Galilee. Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners: The Hebrew Sages and their Proverbs Josiah, a Pattern for the Ignorant. Judges Links Judges 14:4 NIVJudges 14:4 NLT Judges 14:4 ESV Judges 14:4 NASB Judges 14:4 KJV Judges 14:4 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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