68. What the Bible Says About Samson (pt1)

17/01/2025 1h 44min

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Episode Synopsis

What The Bible Says. Fortnightly bible study.Episode 68 - 17/01/25This Week we are looking at the life of Samson.Samson’s Story Is Our StoryThe life of Samson in Judges 13–16 was not written for his benefit, but for ours (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11). His journey reflects our own spiritual walk, with all its ups and downs. As we study his story, the right posture is not to criticize, but to ask, “Lord, what are you showing me about myself?”Chosen and Set Apart from BirthSamson’s birth was miraculous and marked by divine calling (Judges 13:3–5). The angel instructed his mother to avoid anything unclean because the child would be a Nazarite from the womb. In the same way, believers are spiritually reborn and chosen to fulfill God's purpose (Ephesians 2:10; Jeremiah 1:5).The Nazarite Vow and Christian ConsecrationNumbers 6:1–8 outlines the Nazarite vow—voluntary, visible separation unto God. Though not binding today, the principle applies: as those consecrated to God in Christ, our lives should reflect holiness and devotion (Romans 12:1–2; 1 Peter 1:15–16). The vow was a model of visible distinction in lifestyle, just as Christian living should be.The Danger of Disregarding God’s StandardsSamson’s desire to marry a Philistine woman (Judges 14:1–3) was against Israelite law (Deuteronomy 7:3–4). Though God used it to confront the Philistines (Judges 14:4), the choice still represented disobedience. 2 Corinthians 6:14–15 reminds us not to be unequally yoked—God’s purposes do not justify going against His commands.Growth Precedes EmpowermentJudges 13:24–25 tells us that Samson grew and was blessed by the Lord, and only then did the Spirit begin to stir him. Likewise, Luke 2:40 and 1 Samuel 2:26 highlight the growth and spiritual maturity of Jesus and Samuel before their ministries began. Spiritual growth is the foundation for fruitful service.God’s Spirit Empowers Us, Not Our StrengthSamson’s acts of power (tearing the lion in Judges 14:5–6; killing 1,000 men with a jawbone in Judges 15:14–15) only happened when the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. Zechariah 4:6 emphasizes that God's work is accomplished “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” reminding us that true strength comes from Him.Don’t Discard What God Has UsedAfter achieving great victory with the jawbone of a donkey, Samson threw it away (Judges 15:17). This prompted a reflection in the study: we must not discard the very Word or tools God uses to equip and strengthen us (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Proverbs 4:13). Instead, we should hold fast to what has nourished and shaped our faith.