THE ARK RETURNED TO ISRAEL SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES LESSON 707: THE ARK RETURNED TO ISRAEL

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY From our last study, entitled “God chastises the Philistines”, we learnt that God destroyed the Philistines because they captured and dishonoured His ark. Divine judgement awaits those who refuse to repent and do their restitution. God is omnipotent. If we obey Him, we will do valiantly: for He it is that shall tread down our enemies.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 707: THE ARK RETURNED TO ISRAEL MEMORY VERSE: “ And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise return him a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand is not removed from you” (I Samuel 6:3). TEXT: I Samuel 6:1-21.

SUMMARY Reluctance to return the and resultant punishment (1 Sam. 6:1-2; Proverbs 29:1) The Philistines sought further counsel instead of returning the ark immediately. Sincerity and prompt obedience to God’s revealed brings His blessings; delay is dangerous. Acknowledgement of God’s supremacy (1 Sam.6:3-9; Isaiah 43:7,21) The Philistines acknowledged their trespass; so must we acknowledge and confess sin. Even idolaters admonished giving glory to God: He created us for His glory and praise. Return and reception of the ark in Israel (1 Sam. 6:10-18; 1Sam.5:7-11; Deut.5:32-33) God’s instructions must be followed diligently. Christians should not consult diviners. Repercussion for ridiculous curiosity (1 Sam. 6:19-21; Ex. 19:21) We must not forget God’s law in time of merriment and celebration. In view of the Lord’s imminent return, we must be sober, watchful and prayerful.

DISCUSSION

QUESTION 1 What can believers learn from the reluctance of the Philistines to promptly return the ark to Israel? 1 Samuel 6:1,2 Proverbs 29:1

QUESTION 2 Cite other examples in the Scripture where people enquired about divine truth but treated the answer with levity. John 18:38 Numbers 22:12,19-22 Acts 24:26 Mark 10:17,21,22.

QUESTION 3 a) What can we learn from the continued chastisement of the Philistines? 1 Samuel 5:9-10 b) What can we learn from their final submission to divine plan? Deuteronomy 5:29

QUESTION 4 Does God’s acceptance of the heathen priests’ counsel imply that believers should consult or listen to idol worshippers ? Leviticus 19:31 Isaiah 8:19

QUESTION 5 1 Samuel 6:19 Luke 12:47-48 1Timothy 2:15 What admonitions can we learn from the chastisement of the men of Beth-shemesh? 1 Samuel 6:19 Luke 12:47-48 1Timothy 2:15

CONCLUSION To enjoy the blessings of God, there must be prompt obedience to His revealed will. There is danger in delay and hardness of heart can lead to sudden judgment. We must diligently follow God’s instructions. Things must be done decently and in order. The ark of God contains His law/word. God’s presence and power in His word will continue to prevail as it did among the Philistines.