The Sons of ‘Eli
First Samuel 2: 12-36
Up to this point, the focus has been on Elkanah and his family (to see link click Ag – The Birth and Dedication of Samuel), but it will now switch to ‘Eli and his family. Throughout this section you will see a deliberate contrast between Samuel and the two sons of ‘Eli, Hophni and Phinehas. While Samuel was growing in favor with both ADONAI and with men (2:26), ‘Eli’s two sons, who also served as priests, were growing in wickedness. They abused their privileges when it came to eating the portion of the sacrifices given to the priests (Deuteronomy 18:3-5), and even had sex with the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle (Exodus 38:8). Because of their wickedness, Ha’Shem determined that the house of ‘Eli would forfeit their priesthood (see Au – God’s Rejection of ‘Eli’s House).64 From a human point of view, it looked like ‘Eli’s evil sons were getting away with their rebellion, but ADONAI was preparing judgment for them while He was preparing His servant Samuel to continue His sovereign will. This reminds us that YHVH is always at work behind the scenes, so that even amid wickedness and unbelief there is always hope for grace.64
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