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Discussions Prophets and Writings

1st Samuel 2 — Hannah’s prophecy and the sins of Eli’s sons

Much of 1st Samuel 2 contains Hannah’s prayer of praise to God. Then we hear about high priest Eli’s wicked sons and how their actions made people despise following God’s instructions. A prophet comes to Eli and gives God’s message that his priestly line would end because he didn’t stop the behavior.

Food for thought from the recorded discussion

What did we learn about Hannah in 1st Samuel 1? Who were Hannah’s antagonists? 

Why does Hannah’s prayer start this chapter? What does Hannah say?

Why is Hannah considered a prophet? How does the tone of the chapter change from 1st Sam. 2:2 to 1st Sam. 2:3? Who are the topics of her prophecy?

What were Samuel’s qualifications to be an assistant to the High Priest?

Why is 1st Sam 2:6 so important for understanding God’s commands to kill all the people — sometimes women, children, and animals — in certain cities of Canaan during Israel’s entry into the land?

Who is Hannah speaking about in 1st Sam. 2:11? Who is the second prophet to confirm Hannah’s witness?

What kind of sins did Eli’s sons commit against the Tabernacle and the people of Israel? Which offerings were Eli’s sons stealing? Which types of sins were worse in the prophet’s eyes? 

How did Eli rebuke his sons? How should Eli have rebuked his sons? What punishment did God inflict upon the sons of Aaron who performed their priestly duties out of order?  What is the curse the prophet gives for the demise of Eli’s family? Does God care about our deeds or does He only care about our beliefs and words?

Why are we studying this? Why did Samuel record this? How is this relevant to our life?

What is the purpose of a prophet?

Reader: Ellie Agee. Speaker: Daniel Agee.