Original Broadcast: January 2010
Monthly Theme: First Commandment, Graven Images
Now the lords of the Philistines gathered to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to rejoice,
and they said, "Our god has given Samson our enemy into our hand."
(Judges 16:23)
Samson had been captured by the Philistines. His head had been shaved and his strength was gone. The Philistines believed they could now conquer Israel once and for all. To celebrate their great fortune, they gather together for a great feast. They're thanking Dagon, their god, for his provision.
They brought Samson out to entertain them since he was now just a circus act for their personal amusement.
Samson, acknowledging his own sin and self-idolatry, asked God for one more moment of strength. Not for himself and his own glory, but for God's glory. God granted his wish and Samson literally brought the house down.
He destroyed the temple of Dagon by pushing apart its supporting pillars. In his life, Samson glorified himself. In his death, Samson glorified God. He learned a little too late this great meaning of life. Learn from Samson's mistake and glorify God through your life. Amen.
