Topical Bible: Miracles Wrought Through Servants of God: Samson: Dagon's House Pulled Down

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Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction

The account of Samson pulling down the house of Dagon is one of the most dramatic and powerful demonstrations of divine intervention through a servant of God. This event is recorded in the Book of Judges and highlights the strength and faith of Samson, a Nazirite dedicated to God from birth, who was endowed with extraordinary physical strength to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Philistines.

Biblical Context

The narrative of Samson is found in Judges 13-16. Samson was chosen by God to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines, who had been oppressing them for forty years (Judges 13:1-5). Despite his personal failings and moral weaknesses, Samson was used by God to fulfill His purposes. The culmination of Samson's life and mission occurs in Judges 16, where he brings down the temple of Dagon, the Philistine god.

The Event

After being betrayed by Delilah and captured by the Philistines, Samson was blinded and imprisoned. During a celebration in the temple of Dagon, the Philistines brought Samson out to entertain them. The temple was filled with men and women, including all the rulers of the Philistines, and about three thousand people were on the roof watching Samson (Judges 16:27).

In a moment of repentance and faith, Samson prayed to the Lord, saying, "O Lord GOD, please remember me. Strengthen me, O God, just once more, so that with one act of vengeance I may pay back the Philistines for my two eyes" (Judges 16:28). God granted his request, and Samson, placing his hands on the two central pillars of the temple, pushed with all his might. The temple collapsed, killing Samson and all the Philistines present, thus achieving a significant victory over Israel's enemies (Judges 16:29-30).

Theological Significance

The destruction of Dagon's temple serves as a powerful testament to God's sovereignty and ability to use flawed individuals to accomplish His divine purposes. Despite Samson's personal failures, his final act was one of faith and reliance on God's strength. This event underscores the theme of God's deliverance and judgment against idolatry and oppression.

Samson's prayer and subsequent action demonstrate the importance of repentance and faith in God's power. His willingness to sacrifice his life for the sake of his people foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for the salvation of humanity.

Conclusion

The account of Samson pulling down the house of Dagon is a profound example of how God can work through His servants, even in their weakness, to bring about His will. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, repentance, and reliance on God's strength to overcome the forces of evil and idolatry.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Judges 16:30
And Samson said, Let me die with the Philistines. And he bowed himself with all his might; and the house fell on the lords, and on all the people that were therein. So the dead which he slew at his death were more than they which he slew in his life.
Torrey's Topical Textbook