1 Samuel 2 contains Hannah’s song of praise (vv. 1-10), the corruption of Eli’s sons (vv. 11-26), and God’s judgment against Eli’s house (vv. 27-36). The chapter highlights themes of God’s sovereignty, divine justice, and the contrast between faithfulness and rebellion.
1. God Is Sovereign Over Exaltation and Humbling (vv. 1-10)
- Hannah’s song declares that God raises the humble and brings down the proud (v. 7).
- The barren woman (Hannah) is given children, while the proud are brought low (vv. 4-5).
- This foreshadows God’s dealings with Saul and David later in the book.
- Lesson: God alone controls promotion and downfall—He exalts the lowly and humbles the arrogant (James 4:6, Luke 1:52).
2. Prayer and Worship Should Focus on God’s Greatness (vv. 1-2)
- Hannah’s prayer is not just about her personal blessing but praises God’s power, holiness, and faithfulness.
- Lesson: True worship focuses on who God is, not just what He has done for us.
3. God Opposes the Wicked and Defends the Righteous (vv. 9-10)
- God protects His faithful ones while cutting off the wicked.
- This foreshadows His judgment on Eli’s corrupt sons and later on Saul.
- Lesson: God’s justice prevails—wickedness may prosper for a time, but He will bring it to an end (Gal. 6:7-8).
4. The Danger of Spiritual Corruption (vv. 12-17)
- Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were corrupt priests who abused sacrifices and acted immorally.
- They exploited their religious position for personal gain.
- Lesson: Religious leadership does not guarantee faithfulness—without true reverence for God, it leads to corruption (Matt. 7:21-23).
5. God Holds Leaders Accountable (vv. 22-36)
- Eli fails to properly discipline his wicked sons.
- A prophet warns Eli that his house will be judged, and his priestly line will end.
- Lesson: Leaders bear responsibility for the spiritual condition of those under their care (James 3:1).
6. God Raises Up the Faithful as Others Fall (vv. 18-21, 26)
- In contrast to Eli’s wicked sons, Samuel grows in favor with God and people.
- This foreshadows Samuel’s role as God’s faithful prophet.
- Lesson: Even in dark times, God preserves and raises up faithful servants (1 Sam. 16:7, Luke 2:52).
7. God’s Judgment Is Certain (vv. 27-36)
- The prophecy against Eli’s house warns of coming destruction.
- His descendants will lose their priestly role, and a faithful priest will take their place (likely referring to Zadok under Solomon).
- Lesson: When people reject God’s ways, His judgment is inevitable, but He always ensures a faithful remnant.
Conclusion
1 Samuel 2 teaches that God sovereignly exalts and humbles, opposes the wicked, and holds leaders accountable. It contrasts faithful worship (Hannah and Samuel) with corrupt leadership (Eli’s sons), reminding us that God’s justice will prevail.
