What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 2:25? If a man sins against another man “If a man sins against another man…” (1 Samuel 2:25a) • Scripture recognizes offenses committed on the human level—wrongs that can be righted through restitution, repentance, and godly mediation (Exodus 22:9; Matthew 5:23-24). • Such sins, though serious, remain within the realm of interpersonal justice. Earthly judges or elders can arbitrate (Deuteronomy 19:17-18). God can intercede for him “…God can intercede for him” (v. 25a). • Even if human efforts fail, the Lord stands ready to vindicate the innocent and forgive the repentant (Job 42:8-9). • Under the old covenant, priests offered sacrifices on behalf of the sinner (Leviticus 4:27-31). These foreshadowed the perfect mediation of Christ (1 Timothy 2:5). But if a man sins against the LORD, who can intercede for him? “…but if a man sins against the LORD, who can intercede for him?” (v. 25b). • Direct, defiant sin against God—especially by priests who know better—has no human advocate (Numbers 15:30-31). • Persisting in such rebellion rejects the very means of atonement; therefore no earthly priest or parent can shield the offender (Hebrews 10:26-27). • Ultimately, only God Himself can provide a mediator; in the new covenant He does so through His Son (Hebrews 7:25). But they would not listen to their father “But they would not listen to their father” (v. 25c). • Hophni and Phinehas close their ears to Eli’s warning, displaying hearts already hardened (Proverbs 29:1). • Refusal to heed godly counsel reveals contempt for both earthly and heavenly authority (Luke 16:31). Since the LORD intended to put them to death “…since the LORD intended to put them to death” (v. 25d). • God’s foreordained judgment is now in motion (Exodus 4:21; Romans 9:18). • Their persistent sin fulfills the principle that willful rebellion can cross a line where divine patience ends and justice prevails (Proverbs 16:4). • This is not arbitrary; it is righteous retribution for despising holy things (1 Samuel 2:17). summary 1 Samuel 2:25 contrasts two categories of sin: offenses between people, where reconciliation is possible, and high-handed sin against God, where no human intercessor suffices. Hophni and Phinehas illustrate the latter; their refusal to repent seals their fate under God’s just decree. The passage underscores both the availability of mercy for the penitent and the certainty of judgment for defiantly unrepentant sinners, pointing ultimately to the sole sufficiency of God-provided mediation in Jesus Christ. |
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