Chapter Summary

Ark brought to Joshua.

Discussion Questions for 1 Samuel, Chapter 6

1. 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?
2. What does the Philistine rulers' choice of calling on priests and diviners reveal about their suspicions regarding the source of the destruction?
3. What course of action do the priests recommend as appropriate? How are the details important? What do these details suggest about the Philistines?
4. Why does God use bad things to accomplish his purposes? Is this consistent with his character as a good God? Why or why not?
5. 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)
6. 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?
7. What do you think motivated the men of Beth Shemesh look into the ark? Why was this inappropriate?
8. 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?
9. Enthusiasm and over-familiatiry can lead to irreverance. How do you see this problem in the passage? In what areas do you forget the holiness of God?
10. 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.