Chapter Summary

Parents of Samson and Samson's birth.

Discussion Questions for Judges, Chapter 13

1. What are some evil things that God's children do that might cause God to hand us over to our enemies?
2. In verses 2-3, the angel of the Lord told a barren woman that she would give birth to a son. Why would this be important for the woman? What do you believe the Lord's role is in childbearing?
3. Verse 5 says that the boy that would be born is said "will be a Nazirite to God from birth" (CSB). What does this say about God's sovereignty?
4. Do you believe the boy would have a choice in being a Nazirite? Describe how you think God's sovereignty and man's free will work together.
5. Why did Manoah pray in verse 8? What does this indicate about him?
6. Verse 9 begins, "God listened to Manoah" (CSB). What difference does it make when a person truly believes that God listens to his or her prayers?
7. According to verse 12, does Manoah seem to have any doubts about what is wife told him earlier? How do you believe Manoah's wife felt, knowing that her husband trusted her?
8. Why did Manoah ask the angel of the Lord about the boy's responsibilities and work in verse 12? Did the angel of the Lord answer his question in verses 13-14? Why or why not?
9. In your opinion, what was it about the angel of the Lord that made his name "beyond understanding" (verse 18, CSB)? Why do you believe Manoah was incapable to understanding the angel's name?
10. When the angel of the Lord departed in the flame, what was the immediate reaction of Manoah and his wife in verse 20? Why would Manoah believe that seeing God would cost him his life (see verse 22)?

Key Words/Phrase

Conceive, 3, 24.

Characters

God, Angel (Jesus), Holy Spirit, Manoah.

Strong Verse(s)

18, 23.