>The Ark is Captured I Samuel 4

 

I Samuel 4. The Ark is captured

 

With no thought of seeking God’s direction, the Israelites go out to battle against the Philistines. They are defeated.

 

They send to Shiloh for the ark of the covenant. Because Aaron’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas are “paid preachers”, they are going to do what they are told to do. When the ark is brought into the camp, the Israelites have a great rally.  They think they are getting somewhere spiritually, but this is nothing but idolatry. They are worshiping a box – not God.

 

The Philistines are afraid for they say, “God is come into camp.” To them the ark is an idol. This shows that the Philistines are both superstitious and ignorant. Although they have heard of His power, they are ignorant of the true and living God. The Philistines and the Israelites fight, and the Israelites lose the battle. There is a great slaughter, the ark of God is captured, and Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas are slain.

 

When the news of Israel’s terrible defeat reached the city, a great wail arose. Eli, old and blind, asks the reason for it. He maintains his composure when he is told about the death of his sons, but when he learns that the ark of God has been captured, he falls backwards and dies.

 

Eli’s death brings Samuel into the position of God’s spokesman.

 

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J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.