1 Samuel 7:14

The cities from Ekron to Gath, which the Philistines had taken, were restored to Israel, who also delivered the surrounding territory from the hand of the Philistines. And there was peace between the Israelites and the Amorites.

Study Bible

So the cities from Ekron to Gath
This phrase refers to the Philistine cities that were significant in the ancient Near East. Ekron and Gath were part of the five major Philistine city-states. Historically, these cities were known for their strategic military and economic importance. The mention of these cities highlights the extent of Philistine control and the significance of their restoration to Israel. The Hebrew root for "Ekron" (עֶקְרוֹן) and "Gath" (גַּת) suggests a place of barrenness and a winepress, respectively, symbolizing the Philistines' oppressive hold and the subsequent liberation and fruitfulness for Israel.

which the Philistines had taken from Israel
The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during the time of the Judges and early monarchy. Their dominance over Israel was a result of Israel's disobedience to God. The Hebrew term for "taken" (לָקַח) implies a forceful seizure, indicating the Philistines' aggressive expansion. This context underscores the miraculous nature of Israel's recovery of these territories, as it was not by their might but by divine intervention.

were restored to Israel
The restoration of these cities signifies a divine reversal of fortune for Israel. The Hebrew word for "restored" (שׁוּב) carries the connotation of returning or bringing back. This restoration is not merely a political or military victory but a spiritual renewal, as it reflects God's faithfulness to His covenant people when they repent and turn back to Him.

and Israel delivered the surrounding territory
The deliverance of the surrounding territory indicates a broader liberation beyond just the cities. The Hebrew root for "delivered" (נָצַל) suggests a rescue or snatching away from danger. This deliverance is emblematic of God's saving power and His ability to protect and preserve His people when they are faithful to Him.

from the hand of the Philistines
The "hand" (יָד) in Hebrew often symbolizes power or control. The phrase indicates that the Philistines had a strong grip over the region, which was broken by God's intervention. This liberation from the Philistines' hand is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to break the chains of oppression.

And there was peace between the Israelites and the Amorites
The peace mentioned here is significant, as the Amorites were another group that frequently opposed Israel. The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם) encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also wholeness and well-being. This peace is a divine gift, resulting from Israel's renewed relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that true peace comes from aligning with God's will and experiencing His protection and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ekron and Gath
These were major Philistine cities. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel, and these cities represented significant strongholds.

2. Philistines
A powerful sea-faring people who were often in conflict with Israel. They had previously captured the Ark of the Covenant and were a persistent enemy.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were often in conflict with surrounding nations, including the Philistines.

4. Amorites
A group of people living in Canaan. The peace with the Amorites signifies a period of stability and security for Israel.

5. Restoration and Deliverance
The return of the cities and the deliverance from the Philistines symbolize God's intervention and faithfulness to Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Restoration
God is faithful to restore what has been lost or taken. Just as He restored the cities to Israel, He can restore areas of our lives that have been broken or lost.

Deliverance from Oppression
God delivers His people from their enemies. We can trust Him to deliver us from spiritual and physical oppression in our lives.

Peace as a Result of Obedience
The peace with the Amorites came after Israel turned back to God. Our obedience and faithfulness to God can lead to peace in our lives.

The Importance of Repentance
Prior to this restoration, Israel repented and turned back to God. Repentance is crucial for experiencing God's deliverance and restoration.

God's Sovereignty Over Nations
God is sovereign over all nations and peoples. He orchestrates events for His purposes and the good of His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the restoration of the cities from Ekron to Gath teach us about God's ability to restore what has been lost in our lives?

2. How can we apply the concept of deliverance from the Philistines to our own spiritual battles today?

3. In what ways does the peace between Israel and the Amorites reflect the peace that comes from a right relationship with God?

4. How does the theme of repentance in the broader context of 1 Samuel 7 inform our understanding of personal and communal restoration?

5. What other biblical examples can you find where God restores and delivers His people, and how do these examples encourage you in your faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 11:23
This verse speaks of the land being taken and given rest, similar to the restoration and peace described in 1 Samuel 7:14.

Judges 3:30
This passage describes a period of peace after deliverance from oppression, paralleling the peace between Israel and the Amorites.

Psalm 85:1
This psalm speaks of God restoring the fortunes of Jacob, akin to the restoration of the cities to Israel.