God of Gods

After capturing the ark of God at Ebenezer, the Philistines bring it home to Ashdod to gloat in their victory. Has a wicked nation triumphed over Israel? Has Yahweh been defeated? In a comical turn of events, the Lord shows his supremacy and self-sufficiency, toppling idols and bringing judgment. The passage shows us that Yahweh is willing to suffer shame "down here"—among the idols of the earth, going into exile and being humiliated, in order that he might ultimately triumph over the powers and principalities of this age. This points us to Christ, who suffered "outside the camp" for us, delivering us from sin and shame.