READ: 1 Sam. 2:11-26
Therefore the Lord God of Israel says: ‘I said indeed that your house and the house of your father would walk before Me forever.’ But now the Lord says: ‘Far be it from Me; for those who honor Me I will honor, and those who despise Me shall be lightly esteemed.’ – 1 Sam. 2:30
The sons of the high priest Eli are priests, but their priestly service is disgraceful. They are corrupt men who do not know the LORD and do not take Him into account (v.12). They commit injustices to the people. They steal what belongs to God, the best part of the offering, and that in God’s sanctuary.
In doing so, they openly dishonor God before the eyes of the people, who can no longer approach the LORD appropriately. Religion is seen as something profitable (1 Tim. 3:3).
In addition, they engage in reprehensible practices regarding sexual relations with women from Israel who serve at the entrance of the house of God. The church has become worldly, a disgrace even to the heathens.
Only when the entire people speak ill of them does Eli warn his sons, but he does not take disciplinary measures. This illustrates the deformation for which Eli is particularly guilty.
He is addressed by a man in the service of God (v.27ff), who points out Eli’s guilty failure. Eli has abused the privileged position of the priesthood and, thereby, forfeited God’s promise that His house will always serve Him. For thus says the LORD: “Those who honor Me I will honor, but those who despise Me will be lightly esteemed.”
A serious statement from God that still applies today in cases of unfaithfulness in the church. It means especially crushing judgment for Eli: God withdraws His favor for him and his sons, even for his entire descendancy. They are no longer allowed to serve in God’s presence, will not grow old, and will suffer material lack, begging for bread.
Are there examples of unfaithful office-bearers?
Singing: Ps. 5:2,3