No, my sons; it is not a good report I hear circulating among the LORD's people. No, my sonsThis phrase is a direct address from Eli, the high priest, to his sons, Hophni and Phinehas. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which not only denotes a biological relationship but also implies a responsibility for guidance and correction. Eli's use of "No" indicates a strong disapproval and a call to attention. In the context of ancient Israel, a father's role was to instruct and discipline his children in the ways of the Lord, making this rebuke both a familial and spiritual duty. it is not a good report that I hear circulating among the LORD’s people Persons / Places / Events 1. EliThe high priest of Israel at the time, Eli is addressing his sons in this verse. He is a significant figure in the early chapters of 1 Samuel, serving as both a priest and a judge over Israel. 2. Hophni and Phinehas The sons of Eli, who were priests serving at the tabernacle. They are known for their corrupt and sinful behavior, which included taking advantage of their priestly position for personal gain. 3. The Tabernacle at Shiloh The central place of worship for the Israelites during this period. It is where Eli and his sons served and where the Ark of the Covenant was housed. 4. The Israelites The people of God, who are affected by the actions of Eli's sons. Their complaints about the sons' behavior reach Eli, prompting his rebuke. 5. The LORD The God of Israel, whose laws and commands are being violated by the actions of Eli's sons. The LORD's standards are central to the account and the rebuke Eli gives. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly LeadershipLeaders in the church and community must uphold God's standards. Eli's failure to correct his sons' behavior serves as a warning about the consequences of neglecting this responsibility. The Impact of Sin on Community The sins of Hophni and Phinehas affected the entire community of Israel. Our actions, especially those in leadership, have a ripple effect on others. The Necessity of Accountability Eli's rebuke, though late, underscores the need for accountability among God's people. We must hold each other accountable to live according to God's Word. The Value of a Good Reputation A good report among God's people is crucial. As believers, we should strive to maintain a reputation that honors God and reflects His character. The Consequences of Ignoring Sin Ignoring or downplaying sin can lead to severe consequences, both personally and communally. Eli's account reminds us of the importance of addressing sin promptly and decisively. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Eli's response to his sons' behavior reflect the responsibilities of spiritual leaders today?2. In what ways can unchecked sin within a community affect its overall health and witness? 3. How can we ensure that we maintain a good reputation among both believers and non-believers? 4. What steps can we take to hold ourselves and others accountable to God's standards? 5. How do the accounts of Eli's sons and Nadab and Abihu serve as warnings for us in our personal and communal lives? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 10The account of Nadab and Abihu, who also faced consequences for improper conduct in their priestly duties, parallels the misconduct of Hophni and Phinehas. Proverbs 22:1 This verse emphasizes the importance of a good reputation, which is relevant to Eli's concern about the report circulating among the people. 1 Timothy 3:1-7 The qualifications for church leaders in the New Testament highlight the importance of character and reputation, similar to the expectations for priests in the Old Testament.
People Eli, Elkanah, Hannah, Hophni, Israelites, Pharaoh, Phinehas, SamuelPlaces Egypt, Ramah, ShilohTopics Abroad, Account, Causing, Circulating, Disobey, Hearing, Lord's, Nay, Report, Sending, Sons, Spread, Spreading, TransgressDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 2:22-25Library 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 2:24 NIV1 Samuel 2:24 NLT 1 Samuel 2:24 ESV 1 Samuel 2:24 NASB 1 Samuel 2:24 KJV 1 Samuel 2:24 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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