Eli was a priest who served the Lord but faced challenges with his family. His story provides lessons on faith, responsibility, and God’s justice. Today, we’ll see what we can learn from the life of Eli.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Elections
What Does The Bible Say About Eli
1 Samuel 1:9
“Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on his chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s house.”
This verse introduces us to Eli, a priest who served in the Lord’s house. His position as a priest implies his responsibility to represent the people before God and facilitate their worship.
As we dive deeper into the story, we will see how Eli’s character and actions play a significant role in the narrative and the lessons we can learn from his life.
1 Samuel 2:12
“Now the sons of Eli were scoundrels; they had no regard for the Lord.”
In this verse, we discover that Eli had two sons who were corrupted and had no reverence for God. This contrasts with Eli’s role as a priest and reveals a failure in his responsibilities as a father and spiritual leader.
The presence of the wicked sons emphasizes the importance of raising children in the ways of the Lord and the consequences of neglecting this duty. Eli’s lack of discipline and correction for his sons’ behavior will have significant implications for his family and his own standing with God.
1 Samuel 2:17
“This sin of the young men was very great in the Lord’s sight, for they were treating the Lord’s offering with contempt.”
This verse highlights the seriousness of the sin committed by Eli’s sons. They were not only corrupting themselves but also disrespecting the sacred offerings and rituals that belonged to the Lord. Their actions infringed upon the holiness and dignity of God’s temple.
As leaders, it is crucial for us to remember that our actions not only reflect upon ourselves but also impact the perception and reverence towards God in the eyes of others. Eli’s lack of correction and discipline towards his sons contributed to their disrespect of God’s sacred offerings.
1 Samuel 2:22
“Now Eli, who was very old, heard about everything his sons were doing to all Israel and how they slept with the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting.”
As an old man, Eli heard about the corrupt actions of his sons. They not only disrespected the Lord but also committed immoral acts with the women who served at the temple. Eli’s advanced age could have hindered his involvement or ability to address these issues effectively.
This verse serves as a reminder that neglecting to address sin and wrongdoing in our midst can have severe consequences. It is necessary for leaders to act with both authority and love, even when it may be uncomfortable or challenging. Eli’s inaction towards his sons’ behavior further exacerbates the consequences about to befall his family.
1 Samuel 3:1
“The boy Samuel ministered before the Lord under Eli. In those days, the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.”
This verse introduces another important character, Samuel, who would play a significant role in the story. Samuel served in the presence of the Lord under the guidance and mentorship of Eli. Interestingly, it mentions that during those days, the word of the Lord was rare, and visions were scarce.
This scarcity of divine communication sets the stage for God’s upcoming revelation to Samuel. It highlights the spiritual climate of the time and the importance of faithful individuals who can discern and relay God’s messages to the people.
1 Samuel 3:2
“One night, Eli, whose eyes were becoming so weak that he could barely see, was lying down in his usual place.”
This verse provides further insight into Eli’s physical condition as a very old man. His eyesight had deteriorated to the point where he could barely see. Eli’s physical limitations are a tangible representation of his spiritual condition and his ability to see and discern the will of God.
The diminishing eyesight of Eli symbolizes the spiritual blindness he had towards his sons’ wrongdoing. It serves as a reminder to us that as spiritual leaders, we must remain vigilant and diligent in our seeking of God’s will, even when our physical senses may fail us.
1 Samuel 4:13
“When he arrived, there was Eli sitting on his chair by the side of the road, watching, because his heart feared for the ark of God. When the man entered the town and told what had happened, the whole town sent up a cry.”
This verse depicts Eli’s response upon hearing about the capture of the ark of God by the Philistines. Despite his failures and shortcomings, Eli’s heart feared for the holiness and wellbeing of the ark. His concern and grief over the loss of the ark demonstrated a glimmer of his genuine love for the Lord.
Eli’s reaction in this moment teaches us that, even in our failures, it is possible for our hearts to still harbor love and devotion towards God. It shows us that there is hope for reconciliation and restoration, even when we have fallen short in our duties as leaders.
1 Samuel 4:18
“When Eli heard the outcry, he asked, ‘What is the meaning of this uproar?’ The man hurried over to Eli, who was ninety-eight years old and whose eyes had failed so that he could not see.”
In this verse, we witness the news of the ark’s capture and the death of his sons causing an uproar. Eli, despite his impaired eyesight and advanced age, sought to understand the cause of the commotion.
This display of genuine concern, even in the face of devastating circumstances, speaks to Eli’s character. It reminds us that effective leadership requires an unwavering commitment to serving and understanding the needs of those we lead. Eli’s response here serves as a testament to his desire to fulfill his priestly duties, even in his weakened state.
1 Samuel 4:19
“His daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, was pregnant and near the time of delivery. When she heard the news that the ark of God had been captured and that her father-in-law and her husband were dead, she went into labor and gave birth, but was overcome by her labor pains.”
This verse unveils the tragic news of Eli’s sons’ death and the capture of the ark, which caused great distress among the people. The weight of this news was so heavy that it directly impacted the daughter-in-law of Eli, causing her to go into labor prematurely and endure physical and emotional pain.
It is a poignant reminder that our actions as leaders not only affect us personally but have the potential to impact the lives of those around us. The consequences of Eli’s failures extended beyond himself and affected his family and those who relied on his spiritual guidance.
1 Samuel 4:22
“She said, ‘The Glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured.'”
These words spoken by the daughter-in-law of Eli, upon learning of the ark’s capture, reveal a profound truth. The loss of the ark was perceived as a departure of God’s glory from Israel. It symbolized the withdrawal of God’s presence and favor from the nation.
This verse underscores the significance of God’s presence in the midst of His people and serves as a reminder of the consequences that follow when we neglect to honor and reverence Him in our lives and leadership. The departure of God’s glory further highlights the need for righteous and faithful leaders who will safeguard the sacredness of His presence.
1 Samuel 4:18-22
“When Eli heard the outcry, he asked, ‘What is the meaning of this uproar?’ The man hurried over to Eli, who was ninety-eight years old and whose eyes had failed so that he could not see. He told Eli, ‘I have just come from the battle line; I fled from it this very day.’ Eli asked, ‘What happened, my son?’ The man who brought the news replied, ‘Israel fled before the Philistines, and the army has suffered heavy losses. Also, your two sons, Hophni and Phinehas, are dead, and the ark of God has been captured.’ When he mentioned the ark of God, Eli fell backward off his chair by the side of the gate. His neck was broken, and he died, for he was an old man, and he was heavy. He had led Israel forty years. His daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, was pregnant and near the time of delivery. When she heard the news that the ark of God had been captured and that her father-in-law and her husband were dead, she went into labor and gave birth, but was overcome by her labor pains. As she was dying, the women attending her said, ‘Don’t despair; you have given birth to a son.’ But she did not respond or pay any attention.”
This passage recounts the tragic end of Eli’s life and the consequences that befell his family. Eli’s advanced age, coupled with the devastating news of his sons’ death and the capture of the ark, caused him to fall backward off his chair and ultimately resulted in his death. The weight of these events was so heavy that it also affected his daughter-in-law, causing her premature labor and eventual death.
This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the severe consequences that can arise from neglecting our responsibilities as leaders, particularly in matters of spiritual importance. Although Eli had shown moments of concern and regret throughout the narrative, his failure to act decisively and correct his sons ultimately led to immense personal loss and tragedy.
1 Samuel 7:3
“So Samuel said to all the Israelites, ‘If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.'”
In this verse, Samuel, who succeeded Eli as a prophet and judge, called the Israelites to repentance and a complete return to the Lord. He urged them to renounce their worship of foreign gods and commit themselves wholeheartedly to God alone.
This verse highlights the importance of true repentance and the removal of all idols in our lives. It also reveals the hope and promise for deliverance when we turn back to God and dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to His service.
1 Samuel 7:8
“The Israelites said to Samuel, ‘Do not stop crying out to the Lord our God for us, that he may rescue us from the hand of the Philistines.'”
When the Israelites recognized the need for divine intervention and deliverance from their oppressors, they pleaded with Samuel to continue crying out to the Lord on their behalf.
This verse demonstrates the significance of intercession and the power of collective prayer. It emphasizes the importance of unified and persistent supplication to God, trusting in His faithfulness and provision for their needs.
1 Samuel 7:9
“Then Samuel took a suckling lamb and sacrificed it as a whole burnt offering to the Lord. He cried out to the Lord on Israel’s behalf, and the Lord answered him.”
Samuel’s response to the people’s request for deliverance involved offering a sacrificial lamb as a burnt offering to the Lord. He interceded on behalf of Israel, crying out to God for His intervention.
This verse demonstrates the significance of sacrificial worship and the power it has in eliciting God’s response. It serves as a reminder that our prayers must be accompanied by a surrender of our lives and a willingness to offer sacrifices that honor and please God.
1 Samuel 7:10
“While Samuel was sacrificing the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to engage Israel in battle. But that day the Lord thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them into such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites.”
As Samuel offered the burnt offering and interceded on Israel’s behalf, the Philistines approached to engage them in battle. However, the Lord intervened with loud thunder, causing confusion and panic among the Philistines. As a result, they were swiftly defeated by the Israelites.
This verse serves as a testament to the power and sovereignty of God. It demonstrates that when the people turn to Him with repentant hearts and offer sincere worship, He is faithful to deliver and fight their battles on their behalf.
1 Samuel 7:13
“So, the Philistines were subdued and they stopped invading Israel’s territory. Throughout Samuel’s lifetime, the hand of the Lord was against the Philistines.”
As a result of God’s intervention and Israel’s repentance, the Philistines were subdued, and they ceased their invasions into Israel’s territory. This victory and peace prevailed throughout Samuel’s lifetime, serving as an ongoing testimony to the faithfulness and power of God.
This verse underscores the importance of aligning ourselves with God’s purposes and living in obedience to His commands. It reveals that when we walk in harmony with His will, He manifests His presence and favors us with peace and victory over our enemies.
1 Samuel 8:1
“When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as Israel’s leaders.”
As Samuel reached old age, he made the decision to appoint his sons as leaders over Israel. However, this decision would prove to have significant implications, as his sons did not walk in the ways of their father and turned away from God.
This verse serves as a stark reminder of the importance of discernment and wisdom in appointing leaders. It shows that even individuals with prior spiritual influence can make misjudgments and allow personal favoritism to cloud their judgment.
1 Samuel 8:3
“But his sons did not follow his ways. They turned aside after dishonest gain and accepted bribes and perverted justice.”
Despite Samuel’s intentions and appointment, his sons deviated from the righteous path and were driven by selfish desires. They engaged in bribery and perverted justice, causing great harm and undermining the principles of God’s governance.
This verse emphasizes the destructive consequences of appointing leaders who lack integrity and moral character. It underscores the responsibility of leaders to raise and train their children to walk in righteousness and to resist the temptations of worldly gain.
1 Samuel 8:4-5
“So, all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, ‘You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have.'”
In this passage, the elders of Israel approached Samuel, expressing their concerns about his age and the unfaithfulness of his sons. They demanded a king to lead them, wanting to conform to the practices of other nations rather than relying on divine guidance.
This verse highlights the contrast between God’s desires for His people and their inclination to adopt worldly patterns of leadership. It illustrates the inherent dangers of seeking conformity to cultural norms rather than seeking God’s perfect will.
1 Samuel 12:13
“Now here is the king you have chosen, the one you asked for; see, the Lord has set a king over you.”
In response to the Israelites’ demands for a king, Samuel acknowledged their request and declared that the Lord had granted their desire by establishing a king over them.
This verse emphasizes the importance of God’s sovereignty and His ability to work even through imperfect human systems. It serves as a reminder that our choices and desires are subject to God’s ultimate rule and that He can use them to fulfill His purposes.
1 Samuel 12:14
“If you fear the Lord and serve and obey him and do not rebel against his commands, and if both you and the king who reigns over you follow the Lord your God—good!”
In response to the appointment of a king, Samuel urged the Israelites to remain faithful to God by fearing, serving, and obeying Him. He emphasized the importance of both the people and the king following the Lord.
This verse highlights the centrality of obedience to God’s commands in both the lives of individuals and leaders. It reveals that the actions and choices of leaders can greatly influence the spiritual direction and well-being of the people they lead.
1 Samuel 15:30
“Saul replied, ‘I have sinned. But please honor me before the elders of my people and before Israel; come back with me, so that I may worship the Lord your God.'”
After being confronted by Samuel for his disobedience, King Saul confessed his sin and acknowledged his wrongdoing. Saul, longing to remain in honor and authority, humbly requested Samuel’s presence as he worshiped the Lord.
This verse illustrates the tension between true repentance and the desire for status and influence. Saul’s request to be honored before the elders reveals a reluctance to face the full consequences of his actions and a focus on the approval of others rather than the search for genuine reconciliation with God.
1 Samuel 15:22
“But Samuel replied, ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.'”
Samuel’s response to Saul’s plea for honor and worship highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands. He emphasizes that external acts of sacrifice and worship hold little value if they are not accompanied by true submission and obedience to God.
This verse teaches us that God values a heart that is yielded and obedient above mere religious rituals. It challenges us to evaluate the sincerity of our worship and to prioritize obedience to God’s will over outward displays of piety.
1 Samuel 15:23
“For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.'”
In response to Saul’s disobedience and his attempt to justify his actions, Samuel delivers a sobering message from the Lord. He declares that Saul’s rebellion and arrogance are equivalent to the practices of divination and idolatry. As a result, God has rejected Saul as king.
This verse underscores the severity of disobedience and the implications it holds for our standing before God. It reveals that even those in positions of power and authority are subject to God’s judgment and discipline when they choose to reject His word and go their own way.
1 Samuel 16:1
“The Lord said to Samuel, ‘How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.'”
After Saul’s rejection, God directs Samuel to stop mourning and instead anoint the next chosen king of Israel from the sons of Jesse of Bethlehem. God’s rejection of Saul is followed by His clear directive to Samuel to move forward in fulfilling His divine plan.
This verse demonstrates God’s sovereignty and His commitment to His purposes despite human failures and shortcomings. It reminds us that God always has a plan in motion, and as leaders, we must be willing to discern His leading and respond obediently.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
As Samuel evaluates Jesse’s sons to identify the next king, he initially assumes that Eliab, the eldest and seemingly impressive in appearance, would be God’s chosen one. However, the Lord reminds Samuel not to base his selection solely on outward appearances, but rather on the condition of the candidate’s heart.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our inner character and integrity matter more to God than our external qualities or achievements. It challenges us to prioritize developing a heart that is pleasing and devoted to Him above seeking validation and recognition based on superficial standards.