Judges 15:12

But they said to him, "We have come down to arrest you and hand you over to the Philistines." Samson replied, "Swear to me that you will not kill me yourselves."

Study Bible

But they said to him
This phrase introduces the response of the men of Judah to Samson. The context here is crucial; the men of Judah are speaking to Samson, who is one of their own, yet they are in a position of fear and subjugation under the Philistines. Historically, this reflects a period when the Israelites were often oppressed by surrounding nations due to their disobedience to God. The phrase sets the stage for a dialogue that reveals the tension between Samson's divine calling and the people's fear.

We have come down to bind you
The men of Judah express their intention to bind Samson. The Hebrew root for "bind" (אָסַר, 'asar) often implies a physical restraint but can also symbolize spiritual or moral constraints. This reflects the tragic irony of the situation: God's chosen deliverer is being handed over by his own people. It highlights the lack of faith and courage among the Israelites, who are willing to compromise with their oppressors rather than trust in God's deliverance.

so that we may deliver you into the hands of the Philistines
The phrase "deliver you into the hands" is significant in biblical literature, often indicating a transfer of power or control. The men of Judah are acting out of fear, prioritizing their immediate safety over the long-term freedom that Samson could secure. This reflects a recurring theme in the Book of Judges, where the Israelites repeatedly fail to trust in God's provision and protection, opting instead for short-term solutions that lead to further bondage.

Samson said to them
Samson's response is crucial. Despite being betrayed by his own people, he remains calm and composed. This moment underscores Samson's role as a judge and deliverer, chosen by God despite his personal flaws. His willingness to engage with the men of Judah rather than retaliate immediately shows a level of restraint and understanding of his divine mission.

Swear to me that you will not kill me yourselves
Samson's request for an oath reveals his strategic thinking and understanding of the situation. By asking for this promise, he ensures that his own people will not be the ones to harm him, maintaining a semblance of unity among the Israelites. This request also reflects the importance of oaths in ancient Israelite culture, where a sworn promise held significant weight and was considered binding before God. Samson's demand for an oath highlights his awareness of the spiritual and communal implications of their actions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samson
A judge of Israel known for his supernatural strength, which was a gift from God. His life was marked by conflict with the Philistines, who were oppressors of Israel during his time.

2. The Men of Judah
Fellow Israelites who, out of fear of the Philistines, sought to bind Samson and deliver him to their enemies. This reflects the internal strife and lack of unity among the Israelites.

3. The Philistines
A dominant and oppressive group during the time of the Judges, often in conflict with the Israelites. They sought to capture Samson due to his acts against them.

4. Lehi
The place where this event occurs, which later becomes significant as the site of Samson's victory over the Philistines with the jawbone of a donkey.

5. Binding and Deliverance
The act of binding Samson symbolizes the Israelites' submission to their oppressors, while Samson's deliverance foreshadows God's power to free His people.

Teaching Points

Fear and Compromise
The men of Judah's willingness to hand over Samson reflects how fear can lead to compromise. Believers are called to trust in God's deliverance rather than succumb to fear.

God's Sovereignty
Despite human actions and intentions, God's purposes prevail. Samson's account reminds us that God can use even flawed individuals to accomplish His will.

Unity Among Believers
The internal conflict among the Israelites serves as a warning against division within the body of Christ. Unity is essential for standing against common adversaries.

Courage in Adversity
Samson's request not to be killed by his own people shows a level of courage and trust in God's plan. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in faith, even when facing betrayal or adversity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fear of the Philistines influence the actions of the men of Judah, and what can we learn from this about the impact of fear on our decision-making?

2. In what ways does Samson's account illustrate the theme of God's strength being made perfect in human weakness?

3. How can the internal strife among the Israelites serve as a lesson for maintaining unity within the church today?

4. What does Samson's request to the men of Judah reveal about his character and his relationship with God?

5. How can we apply the lessons from Samson's life to our own struggles with sin and temptation, as seen in other parts of Scripture like Romans 7?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 16
The continuation of Samson's account, where his strength and eventual downfall are further explored, highlighting themes of God's sovereignty and human weakness.

Hebrews 11
Samson is mentioned in the "Hall of Faith," illustrating that despite his flaws, he was used by God to achieve His purposes.

Exodus 1
The Israelites' fear of the Philistines parallels their earlier fear of the Egyptians, showing a recurring theme of oppression and deliverance in Israel's history.