Samson: Hero

Introductions/ scripture

Judges 15:13–20 NIV

“Agreed,” they answered. “We will only tie you up and hand you over to them. We will not kill you.” So they bound him with two new ropes and led him up from the rock. As he approached Lehi, the Philistines came toward him shouting. The Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him. The ropes on his arms became like charred flax, and the bindings dropped from his hands. Finding a fresh jawbone of a donkey, he grabbed it and struck down a thousand men. Then Samson said, “With a donkey’s jawbone I have made donkeys of them. With a donkey’s jawbone I have killed a thousand men.” When he finished speaking, he threw away the jawbone; and the place was called Ramath Lehi. Because he was very thirsty, he cried out to the Lord, “You have given your servant this great victory. Must I now die of thirst and fall into the hands of the uncircumcised?” Then God opened up the hollow place in Lehi, and water came out of it. When Samson drank, his strength returned and he revived. So the spring was called En Hakkore, and it is still there in Lehi. Samson led Israel for twenty years in the days of the Philistines.

Pray.

Hero introduction….

The Book of Judges, a part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament, details the time in Israel's history between the death of Joshua and the establishment of the monarchy. It recounts the cyclical pattern of Israel's behavior: falling into sin and idolatry, suffering oppression from neighboring peoples, crying out to God for deliverance, and being rescued by leaders known as judges. These judges, who were more like military leaders than legal arbiters, included figures like Deborah, Gideon, and Samson. The book highlights the Israelites' repeated faithlessness and God's enduring patience and mercy. It concludes with stories illustrating the chaos and moral decline of the era, emphasizing the need for strong leadership.

Today, we delve into the story of one of the most enigmatic and powerful figures in the Bible—Samson. His story, beginning in Judges 13, is a fascinating tale of strength, faith, weakness, and redemption. Samson's life offers us valuable lessons on the power of God, the consequences of our choices, and the hope of redemption.

1. The Miracle of Samson's Birth

In Judges 13, we read about the miraculous circumstances surrounding Samson's birth. An angel of the Lord appeared to Manoah's wife, who was barren, and announced that she would conceive and bear a son. This child was to be set apart as a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth.

Key Lesson: God's plans often begin with a promise and a calling. Samson's life was purposed by God before he was even born. Similarly, each of us is called by God for a specific purpose. We are reminded that our lives are not accidents but are part of God's divine plan.

2. The Nazirite Vow: A holy commitment

Samson was to live under the Nazirite vow, which included abstaining from wine, not cutting his hair, and avoiding contact with dead bodies. These vows were symbols of his consecration to God.

Key Lesson: Consecration to God requires commitment and discipline. In our Christian walk, we are called to live lives that are set apart, reflecting God's holiness. This means making daily choices that honor God and uphold our commitment to Him.

We are saved by grace, but we live in response to it.

3. Samson's Strength and Weakness

Samson's incredible physical strength was a gift from God, meant to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Philistines. However, Samson had significant weaknesses, particularly his impulsive nature and susceptibility to temptation, as seen in his relationships with Philistine women.

Key Lesson: Our strengths are gifts from God, but we must be vigilant about our weaknesses. Samson's story teaches us that no matter how gifted we are, our weaknesses can lead us astray if we are not careful. We must rely on God's strength and wisdom to guide us and protect us from falling into sin.

4. The Consequences of Disobedience

Samson's repeated disobedience and eventual betrayal by Delilah led to his capture by the Philistines. His eyes were gouged out, and he was forced into hard labor.

Key Lesson: Disobedience to God has serious consequences. Samson's downfall was a result of his continual disregard for God's commands. We must take heed and understand that our actions have repercussions. Living in obedience to God brings blessings and protection, while disobedience leads to suffering and loss.

Generational Blessing and Generational curse

Daughters of divorced parents have a 60% higher divorce rate, while sons have a 35% higher rate.

5. Redemption and God's Mercy

In his final moments, Samson called out to God, asking for strength one last time to defeat the Philistines. God heard his prayer, and Samson's final act brought down the temple, killing many Philistines and himself.

Key Lesson: God's mercy and redemption are always available to us, no matter how far we have fallen. Samson's story ends with a powerful reminder that it is never too late to turn back to God. In our darkest moments, when we humble ourselves and cry out to Him, God is faithful to hear us and restore us.

Conclusion:

We want heros. Presidential debate the other night.