Judges - Chapter-16

Chapter Summary

Samson and Delilah; his fatal error and his death.

Discussion Questions for Judges, Chapter 16

  1. Despite Samson's blatant sinfulness in verse 1, God gives him supernatural strength to escape the Philistines. How does God carry out His purpose in our lives today despite our sin?
  2. Verse 4 says that Samson "fell in love with a woman named Delilah" (CSB). Do you believe Samson understood what true love is? What evidence would you give for your answer?
  3. According to verse 5, what is the motivating factor for Delilah's attempts to betray Samson? In what ways is this temptation a current reality today?
  4. Do you believe Samson was wrong to lie to Delilah? If yes, what should have Samson done instead?
  5. What was the true secret of Samson's strength? What lesson can we learn from that for our lives today?
  6. After Samson lies a second time in verse 11, it becomes clear that Samson wants to keep his secret to himself. Why do you think he wants to do this?
  7. Verse 16 tells us that Delilah "nagged him day after day and pleaded with him until she wore him out" (CSB). How does the enemy wear you down?
  8. According to verses 19-20, was the secret to Samson's strength found in his long hair or in the fact that the Lord had been with him? What would happen to us if the Lord left us?
  9. After Samson was captured, the Philistines began to openly worship their god. How do the enemies of the Lord celebrate today when they sense they have won a victory?
  10. Out of desperation, Samson finally calls out to the Lord. How does God answer his prayer in verses 28-30? What does this tell us about God and about prayer?

Key Words/Phrase

Strength, v. 6, (departed, v. 20).

Characters

God, Holy Spirit, Samson, Delilah.

Strong Verse(s)

20, 28.