1 Samuel 5:6
Now the hand of the LORD was heavy on the people of Ashdod and its vicinity, ravaging them and afflicting them with tumors.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 5:6?

2. How does 1 Samuel 5:6 demonstrate God's power over false gods and idols?

3. What can we learn about God's judgment from 1 Samuel 5:6?

4. How does the affliction in 1 Samuel 5:6 relate to God's holiness?

5. How should we respond to God's discipline as seen in 1 Samuel 5:6?

6. What other biblical instances show God's power over nations opposing Him?

7. Why did God afflict the people of Ashdod with tumors in 1 Samuel 5:6?

8. What is the significance of God's hand being heavy against the Philistines?

9. How does 1 Samuel 5:6 demonstrate God's power over other nations?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 5?

11. 1 Samuel 5:6 – Is there any scientific or medical basis for the tumors supposedly afflicting the Philistines?

12. What are emerods in the Bible?

13. 1 Samuel 5 – Where is the historical or archaeological evidence that the Ark’s presence caused such devastation in Philistine cities?

14. How do we reconcile the differing accounts of the death toll (70 vs. 50,070) in 1 Samuel 6:19, and is there archaeological proof of such an event?
Discussion Questions
1. How does the affliction of the Philistines in Ashdod demonstrate God's sovereignty over all nations?

2. In what ways can we show respect for the sacred in our own lives, and what are the consequences of failing to do so?

3. How does the account of the Ark in Ashdod compare to other instances of divine judgment in the Bible, such as the plagues in Egypt?

4. What does this passage teach us about the nature of God's presence and its impact on those who encounter it?

5. How can we cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord in our daily lives, and what role does this play in our relationship with Him?1. How does the story of Dagon falling before the Ark of the Covenant demonstrate God's superiority over false gods?

2. What does the Ark of the Covenant symbolize in the context of this narrative?

3. Why do you think God afflicted the Philistines with plagues and tumors?

4. How do the Philistines' reactions to the afflictions reflect their understanding of the God of Israel?

5. In what ways might we disrespect or underestimate God in our own lives today? How can we correct this?

6. Why did God allow His Ark to be captured in the first place?

7. How does the narrative of 1 Samuel 5 relate to the concept of divine retribution?

8. How might the account of Dagon's destruction challenge our understanding of false gods today?

9. If faced with a similar situation, how might our modern societies react to the divine afflictions experienced by the Philistines?

10. Can you identify contemporary 'Arks' and 'Dagons' in your life or in the world?

11. How can we ensure respect and reverence for God in our daily lives?

12. Can you think of modern-day examples where God’s power is underestimated or disrespected?

13. How can the fear and repentance shown by the Philistines teach us about our response to divine power?

14. What are the consequences of idolatry in today's context?

15. How does 1 Samuel 5 enhance your understanding of God’s omnipotence?

16. How can we apply the lessons from this chapter to deal with the presence of ‘false gods’ in our society?

17. How might the Philistines have averted the calamities that befell them?

18. What does this chapter teach about the importance of the correct placement and treatment of what is holy?

19. Do you see any correlation between the Philistines' experience and the consequences people face today when they disregard God's supremacy?

20. What personal changes can you make in your life to ensure you're recognizing and respecting God's power and presence?

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