What does 1 Samuel 2:17 teach about the consequences of sin?

◄ 1 Samuel 2:17: Sin's consequences? ►

• Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were priests charged with handling Israel’s sacrifices.

• They seized the best portions by force (vv. 13-16), robbed worshipers, and indulged their own appetites.

• 1 Samuel 2:17: “Thus the sin of the young men was very great in the sight of the LORD, for they were treating the LORD’s offering with contempt.”

Observations From the Verse

• “Very great” shows sin is not graded on a curve; open contempt is a high offense.

• “In the sight of the LORD” reminds us that every act, public or private, is done before God.

• “Treating the LORD’s offering with contempt” equates disrespect for worship with disrespect for God Himself.

Consequences of Sin Highlighted

1. Divine Displeasure

– Their actions angered the LORD immediately, not eventually (Psalm 5:4-5).

2. Loss of Ministry and Influence

– God declares, “Those who despise Me will be disdained” (1 Samuel 2:30). Eli’s lineage forfeits a lasting priesthood.

3. Physical Judgment

– Prophecy: “This will be the sign to you … both of your sons will die on the same day” (1 Samuel 2:34). Fulfilled in 1 Samuel 4:11.

4. National Ramifications

– Israel loses 30,000 soldiers and the ark (1 Samuel 4:10-11). Private sin by leaders brings public disaster.

5. Death as the Ultimate Wage

– The pattern echoes Romans 6:23; James 1:15—sin culminates in death unless atoned for.

Broader Biblical Witness

• Numbers 15:30-31—the one who acts “with a high hand” shows contempt and is cut off.

• Galatians 6:7—“Do not be deceived: God is not mocked.”

• Hebrews 10:26-31—deliberate sin after knowing truth invites “a fearful expectation of judgment.”

Personal Application Today

• God’s standards do not shift with culture; contempt for holy things still reaps severe consequences.

• Spiritual leadership comes with heightened accountability (Luke 12:48; James 3:1).

• True worship demands reverence; shortcuts and self-indulgence betray a heart far from God.

• The only safe refuge is repentance and faith in the perfect High Priest, Jesus Christ, who offered Himself without blemish (Hebrews 7:23-27; 9:14).