1 Samuel Chapter 6 Summary
Ark brought to Joshua.
Discussion Questions for 1 Samuel, Chapter 6
- Seven months is a long time; why do you think the Philistine rulers may have been reluctant to return the Ark of God? In what areas are you hoping that a current problem may resolve itself without repentance?
- What does the Philistine rulers’ choice of calling on priests and diviners reveal about their suspicions regarding the source of the destruction?
- What course of action do the priests recommend as appropriate? How are the details important? What do these details suggest about the Philistines?
- Why does God use bad things to accomplish his purposes? Is this consistent with his character as a good God? Why or why not?
- Why do the priests suggest that the gold items be given as a guilt offering? What are the Philistines guilty of? How does this compare/contrast with the Levitical guilt offering? (see Leviticus 5:14–6:7)
- The location of Beth Shemesh is near Philistia and has a special history. Read Joshua 21:13–16. What kind of town is Beth Shemesh? Why is it important that the Ark stops here? How does this confirm to the Philistine rulers that they made the correct decision?
- What do you think motivated the men of Beth Shemesh to look into the ark? Why was this inappropriate?
- Compare the Philistines and the men of Beth Shemesh. Who shows more respect for God's holiness? Does this surprise you? Why or why not?
- Enthusiasm and over-familiarity can lead to irreverence. How do you see this problem in the passage? In what areas do you forget the holiness of God?
- Why do the men of Beth Shemesh send the Ark to Kiriath Jearim? Was this wise? Why or why not?
Key Words/Phrase
Ark, v. 1.
Characters
God
Strong Verse(s)
13, 20.
