Samson - A Life of Strength and Weakness

Outline

Text: Judges 13:1–16:31

Theme: God’s purposes in broken vessels; strength found in dependence on God.

Key Verse: Judges 16:28 – "Then Samson called to the Lord and said, 'O Lord God, please remember me and strengthen me only this once, O God, that I may be avenged on the Philistines for my two eyes.'"

Objective

To explore Samson's life, highlighting his God-given strength, personal weaknesses, and God’s sovereignty in using flawed people for His purposes.

Lesson Outline

1. Opening (10 minutes)

Icebreaker Question: 

"Who is someone you think of as 'strong' (physically, spiritually, or emotionally)? What makes them strong?"

Prayer: 

Ask for God’s guidance in understanding His Word and applying it to our lives.

2. Introduction (5 minutes)

Brief background on Israel’s state during Samson’s time: 

Israel had again fallen into sin, oppressed by the Philistines for 40 years (Judges 13:1).

Samson is a Nazarite, dedicated to God from birth, marked by unique vows (Judges 13:2-5).

Discussion Prompt:

What does it mean to be set apart for God? How does that apply to us today?

3. Samson’s Story: Strength and Weakness (30 minutes)

A. Samson’s Miraculous Birth (Judges 13:1–25)

Key Point: God’s plan for Samson was established before his birth.

Discussion Question: How does Samson’s calling reflect God’s sovereignty in our lives?

B. Samson’s Strength and Flaws (Judges 14:1–16:22)

Impulsive Decisions (Judges 14:1-20)

Samson’s marriage and riddle reveal his self-centeredness.

Question: How do our choices reflect trust (or lack of trust) in God?

2. Mighty Acts (Judges 15:1-20)

Samson uses his strength to defeat the Philistines but often for personal vengeance.

Question: How can we discern when we’re acting for God’s glory versus our own?

3. Delilah and Betrayal (Judges 16:1–22)

Samson’s repeated compromises lead to his downfall.

Question: What can we learn from Samson about the danger of ignoring God’s boundaries?

C. Samson’s Redemption (Judges 16:23–31)

In humility and dependence, Samson calls on God one last time.

Key Point: God’s power is displayed even in Samson’s repentance and weakness.

Discussion Question: How does Samson’s final act demonstrate both judgment and grace?

4. Application (10 minutes)

Personal Reflection:

Where have you seen God work through your weaknesses or failures?

Are there areas in your life where you’re relying on your own strength instead of God’s?

Group Discussion:

How does Samson’s story point us to Jesus, the ultimate Deliverer?

What does it mean to depend on God daily for strength?

5. Closing (5 minutes)

Summary:

God used Samson despite his flaws, reminding us of His faithfulness.

True strength comes from surrendering to God’s will.

Challenge for the Week:

Identify one area where you need to depend more on God and take a step of faith to surrender it to Him.

Prayer:

Thank God for His grace and for using us, despite our weaknesses.

Ask for strength to live a life fully surrendered to Him.