Returning to the Lord: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 1 Samuel 7

✨ Executive Summary

1 Samuel 7 narrates Israel’s repentance and return to God under Samuel’s leadership. After twenty years of suffering under Philistine oppression, Samuel calls the nation to forsake their idols and dedicate themselves wholly to the Lord. The Israelites gather at Mizpah, where they confess their sins, fast, and seek God’s forgiveness. As they offer a burnt offering, the Philistines attack, but God intervenes with a great thunder, causing confusion and defeat among the enemy. To commemorate this divine deliverance, Samuel erects a stone named Ebenezer, signifying “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” This chapter underscores the importance of repentance, sincere devotion, and God’s unwavering faithfulness to those who turn to Him. It also highlights the significance of spiritual leadership in guiding people towards repentance and restoration with God, offering profound lessons for our own lives today. [Focus Key Phrase: Returning to the Lord]

This chapter from 1 Samuel is a powerful illustration of God’s mercy and the transformative power of repentance. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, a sincere return to God can bring about miraculous deliverance and renewed hope.

📖 Commentary Sections

1 Samuel 7:1

(KJV) And the men of Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD.

(NKJV) Then the men of Kirjath Jearim came and took the ark of the LORD; they brought it to the house of Abinadab on the hill, and consecrated Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD.

The ark, a symbol of God’s presence, finds a temporary resting place in the house of Abinadab. The act of sanctifying Eleazar emphasizes the holiness associated with the ark and the reverence required in its care. This seemingly simple act sets the stage for the spiritual revival that will follow. Kirjathjearim, a town whose name means “city of forests”, was situated in the hill country of Judah, a geographical detail emphasizing the ark’s journey into a secure, albeit temporary, location. Think of the environment where this all took place. The act of taking the Ark to the mountains is symbolic as in the Bible, mountains are places where God is encountered (Exodus 19). Spiritually, we must create a sanctified space in our hearts to receive God’s presence, a space free from the idols of this world. We should strive to *sanctify* our thoughts and actions.

1 Samuel 7:2

(KJV) And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjathjearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty years: and all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD.

(NKJV) So it was that the ark remained in Kirjath Jearim a long time; it was there twenty years. And all the house of Israel lamented after the LORD.

Twenty years of silence and the ark’s absence stir a longing within the people of Israel. This lamentation signifies a turning point, a recognition of their spiritual emptiness without God’s manifest presence. The lengthy period underscores the depth of their spiritual decline and the gradual realization of their need for divine intervention. The Septuagint adds depth, using ἐστενάξεν (estenaxen) meaning “groaned,” to describe the lamentation. This intense yearning echoes David’s cry in Psalm 42:1, “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so my soul pants for You, O God.” We, too, must cultivate this spiritual thirst, recognizing our dependence on God and actively seeking His presence through prayer and repentance. We should allow lament to be a catalyst for repentance.

1 Samuel 7:3-4

(KJV) And Samuel spake unto all the house of Israel, saying, If ye do return unto the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the strange gods and Ashtaroth from among you, and prepare your hearts unto the LORD, and serve him only: and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines. Then the children of Israel did put away Baalim and Ashtaroth, and served the LORD only.

(NKJV) Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, and prepare your hearts for the LORD, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.” So the children of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and served the LORD only.

Samuel’s call to repentance is direct and uncompromising. He demands a complete renunciation of idolatry and a wholehearted devotion to God. The reference to “strange gods and Ashtaroth” highlights the syncretistic practices that had infiltrated Israelite worship. The *Ashtaroth* were Canaanite goddesses associated with fertility and war. The people’s obedience demonstrates a genuine desire to return to God, paving the way for divine deliverance.
Origen, in *Contra Celsum*, underscores that true repentance involves not merely ceasing from outward sin but also transforming the inner disposition of the heart. (Origen, *Contra Celsum*, Book VIII, Chapter 10). For us, this means examining our lives for any idols we might be harboring—be they material possessions, worldly ambitions, or selfish desires—and casting them out in favor of wholehearted devotion to God. Remember, [returning to the Lord] requires complete surrender and obedience.

1 Samuel 7:5-6

(KJV) And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD. And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the LORD, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh.

(NKJV) And Samuel said, “Gather all Israel to Mizpah, and I will pray to the LORD for you.” So they gathered together at Mizpah, drew water, and poured it out before the LORD. And they fasted that day, and said there, “We have sinned against the LORD.” And Samuel judged the children of Israel at Mizpah.

Mizpah becomes the focal point of Israel’s repentance. The act of pouring out water symbolizes a cleansing, a shedding of their past sins. Fasting and confession demonstrate their humility and genuine remorse. Mizpah, meaning “watchtower,” fittingly becomes the place where Israel recommits itself to watching over its relationship with God. The pouring out of water before the Lord is particularly interesting. Some commentators see this as symbolic of pouring out their hearts before God. Other possible interpretations might suggest a parallel with ritual cleansing or even a symbolic representation of the tears of repentance. This powerful act mirrors the words of the Psalmist: “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and contrite heart” (Psalm 51:17).
Cyril of Alexandria, in his commentary on the Old Testament, elucidates that true prayer should be accompanied by acts of self-denial and contrition. (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Isaiah*, Book 2, Homily 4). Let us learn from the Israelites at Mizpah and make our prayer lives a true outpouring of the soul and a turning from sin.

1 Samuel 7:7-9

(KJV) And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid. And the children of Israel said to Samuel, Cease not to cry unto the LORD our God for us, that he will save us out of the hand of the Philistines. And Samuel took a sucking lamb, and offered it for a burnt offering wholly unto the LORD: and Samuel cried unto the LORD for Israel; and the LORD heard him.

(NKJV) Now when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel had gathered together at Mizpah, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard of it, they were afraid. So the children of Israel said to Samuel, “Do not cease to cry out to the LORD our God for us, that He may save us from the hand of the Philistines.” And Samuel took a nursing lamb and offered it as a whole burnt offering to the LORD. Then Samuel cried out to the LORD for Israel, and the LORD answered him.

The Philistines’ attack reveals the vulnerability of a repentant people. Yet, instead of resorting to their own strength, the Israelites turn to Samuel’s intercession. Samuel’s offering of a lamb signifies atonement and complete surrender to God’s will. The phrase “cease not to cry unto the Lord our God for us” underscores the power of persistent prayer. What a powerful testament to faith! Even amidst fear, their first reaction is to seek God. The Septuagint’s use of προσκυνέω (proskyneo) to describe Samuel’s worship highlights the depth of his devotion and reverence. (Septuagint, 1 Samuel 7:9). Consider this a call to constant prayer. *Pray without ceasing* is not merely a saying but a way of life.

1 Samuel 7:10-11

(KJV) And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel: but the LORD thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited them; and they were smitten before Israel. And the men of Israel went out of Mizpeh, and pursued the Philistines, and smote them, until they came under Bethcar.

(NKJV) Now as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel. But the LORD thundered with a loud thunder upon the Philistines, and confused them; and they were defeated before Israel. And the men of Israel went out of Mizpah and pursued the Philistines, and struck them down as far as below Beth Car.

God’s intervention is decisive and miraculous. The “great thunder” symbolizes His power and judgment. The Philistines are thrown into confusion, unable to withstand God’s might. The Israelites, emboldened by divine assistance, pursue and defeat their enemies. This emphasizes that when God fights for us, victory is assured. The phrase “the Lord thundered with a great thunder” is powerful. It reflects the awesome, divine power of God. In our own lives, we may face seemingly insurmountable challenges. But this passage reminds us that God can intervene in miraculous ways, discomfiting our enemies and securing our victory. This reminds us of the victory of the Cross of Christ over the powers of darkness.

1 Samuel 7:12

(KJV) Then Samuel took a stone, and set it between Mizpeh and Shen, and called the name of it Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us.

(NKJV) Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen, and called its name Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.”

The Ebenezer stone stands as a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness. It commemorates His past deliverance and serves as a beacon of hope for the future. The name *Ebenezer*, meaning “stone of help,” encapsulates the essence of God’s unwavering support. The positioning of the stone between Mizpah and Shen creates a boundary, marking both the site of repentance and the extent of God’s intervention. This act parallels Jacob’s erection of a pillar at Bethel (Genesis 28:18-19), symbolizing a covenant with God and a remembrance of His presence. We must remember our past victories, and never let doubt overtake our faith. This teaches us the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness in our lives. We can create our own “Ebenezer stones” by keeping a journal of answered prayers, sharing our testimonies with others, or simply reflecting on God’s blessings. Remembering God’s faithfulness strengthens our faith and empowers us to face future challenges with confidence. [Focus Key Phrase: Returning to the Lord]

1 Samuel 7:13-14

(KJV) So the Philistines were subdued, and they came no more into the coast of Israel: and the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. And the cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron even unto Gath; and the coasts thereof did Israel recover out of the hands of the Philistines. And there was peace between Israel and the Amorites.

(NKJV) So the Philistines were subdued, and they did not come anymore into the territory of Israel. And the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel. Then the cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron to Gath; and Israel recovered its territory from the hands of the Philistines. Also there was peace between Israel and the Amorites.

The result of Israel’s repentance and God’s intervention is lasting peace and restoration. The Philistines are subdued, and the lost territories are recovered. This demonstrates the transformative power of repentance and the blessings that flow from obedience to God. The mention of peace with the Amorites further emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God’s restoration. This reminds us of the fruits of the Spirit; peace, joy, and love.

1 Samuel 7:15-17

(KJV) And Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. And he went from year to year in circuit to Bethel, and Gilgal, and Mizpeh, and judged Israel in all those places. And his return was to Ramah; for there was his house; and there he judged Israel; and there he built an altar unto the LORD.

(NKJV) And Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life. He went from year to year on a circuit to Bethel, Gilgal, and Mizpah, and judged Israel in all those places. Then he would return to Ramah, for his home was there. There he judged Israel, and there he built an altar to the LORD.

Samuel’s continued leadership ensures the preservation of peace and justice. His circuit ministry to Bethel, Gilgal, and Mizpah highlights his commitment to serving the people and upholding God’s law. The construction of an altar in Ramah signifies his ongoing devotion to God and his role as a mediator between God and the people. Samuel’s actions showcase his role as priest, judge, and prophet. The Septuagint’s description of Samuel’s judging as δικαίως (dikaios) emphasizes the righteousness and impartiality of his leadership. (Septuagint, 1 Samuel 7:15). Even in leadership, it is important to remain humble and obedient to the Lord. This showcases a life dedicated to God and service to others. We can emulate Samuel by dedicating our talents and resources to serving others and building up the kingdom of God.

🤔 Key Reflections & Teachings

Let us consider the following reflections from this chapter:

• Repentance is the key to restoration: The chapter underscores that returning to the Lord with all your heart requires genuine repentance and forsaking idolatry.
• Prayer is a powerful weapon: Samuel’s intercession demonstrates the effectiveness of persistent prayer in seeking God’s intervention.
• God’s intervention is decisive: The Lord’s miraculous deliverance of Israel highlights His power to overcome any obstacle.
• Remembrance strengthens faith: The Ebenezer stone serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a source of hope for the future.
• Leadership requires devotion: Samuel’s example demonstrates that effective leadership must be rooted in unwavering devotion to God.
• God helps those who seek His name through website design and digital means.

❓ FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 1 Samuel 7:

• Q: Why did the Israelites gather at Mizpah?

  A: The Israelites gathered at Mizpah in response to Samuel’s call for repentance and a return to God. It was a designated place for confession, fasting, and prayer, symbolizing their desire to cleanse themselves from sin and seek God’s forgiveness.

• Q: What is the significance of the Ebenezer stone?

  A: The Ebenezer stone, meaning “stone of help,” served as a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness in delivering Israel from the Philistines. It commemorated His past intervention and inspired hope for future blessings.

• Q: How does this chapter relate to modern Christian life?

  A: 1 Samuel 7 offers valuable lessons for modern Christians, emphasizing the importance of repentance, prayer, and remembrance in maintaining a vibrant relationship with God. It encourages us to examine our hearts for any idols and to seek God’s intervention in our lives.

• Q: What can we learn from Samuel’s leadership?

  A: Samuel’s leadership serves as a model for effective ministry, highlighting the need for unwavering devotion to God, a commitment to serving others, and a dedication to upholding righteousness and justice.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 7 offers a timeless message of hope and restoration. It reminds us that no matter how far we may stray, a sincere return to God can bring about miraculous deliverance and renewed purpose. Like the Israelites at Mizpah, we must examine our hearts, confess our sins, and dedicate ourselves wholly to the Lord. As we do, we can trust in His unwavering faithfulness to guide us, protect us, and bless us. The *Ebenezer* serves as a constant reminder that “Thus far the Lord has helped us,” inspiring us to face the future with confidence and gratitude. Let us strive to be a people who are truly [Returning to the Lord], seeking His presence in every aspect of our lives. The message is clear: repentance leads to restoration, prayer invites intervention, and remembrance strengthens faith.

Tags

Samuel, Mizpah, Ebenezer, Repentance, Philistines, Prayer, Deliverance, Faithfulness, Coptic Orthodox, Old Testament

Meta Description

Explore 1 Samuel 7 with a Coptic Orthodox lens. Uncover the spiritual significance of Mizpah, Ebenezer, and the power of returning to the Lord through repentance and prayer.