DEEPER LIFE BIBLE CHURCH, LOCATION / REGION SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES Year of Full Restoration 30 JULY, 2017

LESSON 653: SAMSON’S VENGEANCE ON THE PHILISTINES MEMORY VERSE: “And Samson said concerning them, Now shall I be more blameless than the Philistines, though I do them a displeasure” – Judges 15:3 TEXT: Judges 15:1-20

SUMMARY (1) Our previous study dealt with Samson’s inordinate affection: Samson’s inordinate affection for a pagan woman led him to compromise. He eventually lost her to his friend because of anger. Power without purity is dangerous. Charisma without godly character is vain. The study of today touches three related points: The revenge of Samson The rout of the Philistines The relief of Samson

SUMMARY (2) The revenge of Samson (Judges 15:1-8) Samson could not reconcile with his ‘wife’ because she had been given to his friend. In anger, he burned the corn fields and vineyards of the Philistines. The Philistines also killed his wife and father-in-law. Beware of anger. Vengeance belongs to God. The rout of the Philistines (Judges 15:9-17) Samson allowed the frightened men of Judah to bind and deliver him to the Philistines. The Spirit of God came mightily upon Samson. He killed 1000 men with the jaw bone of an ass. God can use ‘insignificant’ things and unusual methods to make a way for you. The relief of Samson (Judges 15:18-20) After the battle, Samson was very thirsty. His plea for water focused on God’s honour. God provided water out of the same jaw bone. He was refreshed and revived. God takes care of those who serve Him. Make scriptural prayer your anchor.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 What are the pitfalls in the life of Samson that believers should avoid? 2 Corinthians 6:14 1 Corinthians 5:6-7

QUESTION 2 How should believers and ministers relate to unbelievers and fellow brethren? Matthew 5:16 Romans 12:18

QUESTION 3 What are the scriptural injunctions against retaliation? Quote Scripture verses to support your answers.

QUESTION 4 How can sinners and backsliders overcome sin? Acts 3:19 Romans 10:9-10 John 8:31-32

QUESTION 5 What is the place of prayer in the life of a believer? Jeremiah 33:3 Philippians 4:6,19

CONCLUSION Don’t seek revenge for ills done to you; let God fight your battle. Desire and pray for the baptism of the Holy Spirit so you can be more effective in God’s kingdom. Power is crucial to breakthrough. Make yourself available so God can use you even if you are ‘bound’. The Holy Spirit may lead you in an unconventional manner. Confirm His leading and do His bidding. Victory is sure. “If God be for us who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

TIME TO PRAY!