Samuel's Prophecy Fulfilled

After their initial defeat, what strategy did Israel take in approaching the next battle? (v. 3)

Let us bring the ark of God into the battlefield with us. Then we will be victorious.

How many of us can relate to this event in our own lives? (v. 4-10)

An unknown author once wrote:

A lion met a Tiger, as they drank beside the pool. Said the Tiger to the Lion, “Why do you roar like a fool?”

“That’s not foolish,” said the Lion, With a twinkle in his eyes. “They call me king of all beasts, because I advertise.”

A Rabbit heard them talking, and ran home like a streak. He though he’d try the Lion’s plan, but his roar was just a squeak.

A Fox heard the Rabbit. He had dinner in the woods. So when you advertise, my friends, be sure you got the goods!

Why do you think their second battle was significantly worse than the first? (v. 10)

Not only were they not in the will of God at this time, now they were bringing further dishonor to God by having the ark of God, a symbol of God’s presence, there with them. This did nothing but bring further shame to the name of God.

How do we see God’s hand upon this situation? Why such loss? (v. 11)

God had decreed this would happen.

The priests in 2:12-16

The people in 2:17, 24

Eli in 2:27-36

Eli’s descendants in 2:31-32

What other loss was suffered, even outside of the battle? (v. 18, 20)

Eli himself dies, as well as his daughter-in-law.

What does the name “Ichabod” say about Israel during this time? (v. 21)

“Ichabod” literally means “inglorious” or “there is no glory”.

Israel had turned from God and therefore the glory of the Lord was not upon them.

Why isn’t it safe to assume that the presence of the symbols of God guarantee the presence of God?

The symbols of God are great, but if the person’s heart is not in tune with God, God may not be there.

What symbol of God’s presence and power can you resolve not to take for granted?

Church Building

The Bible

The Cross