Topical Encyclopedia Eli, a significant figure in the Old Testament, serves as a poignant example of resignation in the face of divine judgment. As the high priest and judge of Israel, Eli's life and actions are primarily documented in the First Book of Samuel. His account is a narrative of both spiritual leadership and personal tragedy, marked by his resignation to God's will despite the dire consequences foretold for his household.Background and Role Eli served as the high priest at Shiloh, where the Ark of the Covenant was housed. He was responsible for the spiritual leadership of Israel during a tumultuous period. Eli is introduced in 1 Samuel 1, where he encounters Hannah, the mother of Samuel, praying fervently for a child. Misunderstanding her silent prayers for drunkenness, Eli initially rebukes her but then blesses her upon realizing her sincerity (1 Samuel 1:12-17). Failure in Parental Responsibility Eli's resignation is intricately linked to his failure as a father. His sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are described as "worthless men" who "had no regard for the LORD" (1 Samuel 2:12). They abused their priestly positions, committing grievous sins that included taking the best portions of sacrifices for themselves and engaging in immoral acts with the women serving at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting (1 Samuel 2:13-17, 22). Despite being aware of their actions, Eli's rebuke of his sons was weak and ineffective. He confronted them, saying, "Why are you doing these things? For I hear about your wicked deeds from all these people" (1 Samuel 2:23). However, his failure to take decisive action against them demonstrated a lack of resolve and contributed to the downfall of his house. Divine Judgment and Resignation God's judgment against Eli's household is pronounced through a man of God who comes to Eli with a message of doom. The prophecy declares that Eli's lineage will be cut off from serving as priests, and that both of his sons will die on the same day (1 Samuel 2:27-34). This message is later confirmed by the young Samuel, whom God calls to be a prophet. When Samuel relays the divine message, Eli responds with a profound resignation: "He is the LORD. Let Him do what is good in His eyes" (1 Samuel 3:18). Eli's response reflects a deep acceptance of God's sovereignty, even in the face of personal loss and tragedy. His resignation is not one of indifference but rather an acknowledgment of God's ultimate authority and justice. The Fulfillment of Judgment The prophecy against Eli's house is fulfilled during a battle with the Philistines. The Israelites suffer a devastating defeat, the Ark of the Covenant is captured, and Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are killed (1 Samuel 4:10-11). Upon hearing the news, Eli, who was ninety-eight years old and blind, falls backward from his seat, breaks his neck, and dies (1 Samuel 4:15-18). Eli's life and resignation serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of failing to uphold God's standards, particularly in leadership and family. His acceptance of God's judgment underscores the importance of recognizing divine authority and the need for faithful obedience to God's commands. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 3:18And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the LORD: let him do what seems him good. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Of the Great Desolation Usually Following an Intellectual Passive ... Our Attitude Toward his Sovereignty The Last Two Verses of Chapterviii. ... The Contents. Chastisement The Value of this Doctrine Letter Lxxix. To Salvina. Resources What does the Bible say about acceptance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about fate / destiny? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to pray, “Thy will be done”? | GotQuestions.org Resignation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Resignation: Christ Set and Example of Resignation: General Scriptures Concerning Resignation: Motives to God's Faithfulness Resignation: Motives to God's Greatness Resignation: Motives to God's Justice Resignation: Motives to God's Love Resignation: Motives to God's Wisdom Resignation: Motives to Our own Sinfulness Resignation: Submission to the Sovereignty of God in his Purposes Resignation: Submission to the Will of God Resignation: The Prospect of Death Resignation: The Wicked are Devoid of Related Terms |
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