1 Samuel 7:4

So the Israelites put away the Baals and Ashtoreths and served only the LORD.

Study Bible

So the Israelites
This phrase refers to the collective people of Israel, God's chosen nation. Historically, the Israelites were descendants of Jacob, also known as Israel, and were set apart by God to be a holy nation. In the context of 1 Samuel, the Israelites were experiencing a period of spiritual renewal under the leadership of Samuel. This phrase indicates a communal action, emphasizing the unity and collective responsibility of the people in their relationship with God.

put away
The Hebrew root for "put away" is "סוּר" (sur), which means to turn aside, remove, or depart. This action signifies a deliberate and decisive rejection of idolatry. It implies a conscious choice to abandon practices that were contrary to God's commandments. The act of putting away idols is a physical and spiritual cleansing, demonstrating repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness.

the Baals
"Baal" was a title meaning "lord" or "master" and was used for various local deities in the ancient Near East. The worship of Baal was widespread among the Canaanites and often involved rituals that were abhorrent to the God of Israel. Archaeological findings have uncovered numerous Baal idols, highlighting the pervasive nature of this cult. By putting away the Baals, the Israelites were rejecting the influence of surrounding pagan cultures and reaffirming their allegiance to Yahweh.

and Ashtoreths
"Ashtoreths" refers to the Canaanite goddess Astarte, associated with fertility, love, and war. The worship of Ashtoreth often included immoral practices. The plural form suggests the presence of multiple representations or manifestations of this goddess. The Israelites' decision to put away the Ashtoreths indicates a renunciation of these corrupt practices and a commitment to purity and holiness.

and served
The Hebrew word for "served" is "עָבַד" (avad), which means to work, worship, or serve. This term conveys the idea of devotion and obedience. Serving God involves both worship and the practical outworking of faith in daily life. It is an active, ongoing commitment to live according to God's will and commands.

only the LORD
The word "only" underscores the exclusivity of the Israelites' worship and devotion. The LORD, represented by the Hebrew name "Yahweh," is the covenant God of Israel, who delivered them from Egypt and established them as His people. This phrase highlights the monotheistic faith of Israel, distinguishing their worship from the polytheistic practices of surrounding nations. Serving only the LORD is a declaration of loyalty and trust in the one true God, who is sovereign and worthy of all worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are called to return to Him by putting away foreign gods.

2. Baals
Canaanite deities associated with fertility and weather, often worshipped by the Israelites in times of spiritual decline.

3. Ashtoreths
Canaanite goddesses of love and war, often worshipped alongside Baals, representing a significant temptation for the Israelites.

4. Samuel
The prophet and judge who leads Israel in spiritual renewal and calls them to repentance.

5. Mizpah
The place where Samuel gathers the Israelites for repentance and renewal of their covenant with God.

Teaching Points

Exclusive Worship
The Israelites' decision to serve only the LORD underscores the importance of exclusive devotion to God. Believers today must examine their lives for modern "idols" that compete for their allegiance.

Repentance and Renewal
The act of putting away foreign gods signifies true repentance. Christians are called to continually turn away from sin and renew their commitment to God.

Leadership in Faith
Samuel's role as a leader in calling Israel to repentance highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding others toward spiritual renewal.

Covenant Faithfulness
The Israelites' return to serving the LORD reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people. Believers are reminded of their covenant responsibilities and the blessings of faithfulness.

Spiritual Warfare
The struggle against idolatry is a form of spiritual warfare. Christians must be vigilant in identifying and resisting influences that draw them away from God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What modern "idols" might compete for our devotion today, and how can we put them away to serve only the LORD?

2. How does the cycle of idolatry and repentance in Israel's history inform our understanding of God's patience and mercy?

3. In what ways can we, like Samuel, lead others toward spiritual renewal and repentance in our communities?

4. How does the concept of covenant faithfulness in the Old Testament apply to our relationship with God through Christ?

5. What practical steps can we take to engage in spiritual warfare against influences that lead us away from God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:3-5
The commandment against idolatry, emphasizing the exclusive worship of the LORD.

Judges 2:11-13
Describes the cycle of Israel's idolatry and the consequences of serving Baals and Ashtoreths.

1 Kings 18:21
Elijah's challenge to Israel to choose between the LORD and Baal, highlighting the need for decisive commitment.

Matthew 6:24
Jesus' teaching on serving two masters, which parallels the call to serve only the LORD.

James 4:8
The call to draw near to God and purify one's heart, echoing the Israelites' need for repentance.