The Return of the Ark

The Philistines have recognized the heavy hand of the God of the Israelites upon them as they bear negative consequences after bringing the Ark into their camp.

From this account we see how God works through pagans to bring His will to pass for the accomplishing of His purposes. In doing so, we have the Philistines being incited to return the Ark to Israel. These pagans acknowledge their 'guilt' before the God of Israel, but it was not a repentance that led them to saving faith. They remained godless people.

As Israel faces another battle, Samuel calls the people to repentance and complete allegiance to God. For them to have God's blessing upon them in their next battle with the Philistines they must remove all the pagan objects of worship they had been mixing in with their worship of God. They must trust in Him alone and cease their revering of the Ark as a 'power-source.'

Summary points from this study include:

1. God can, and does use godless men in accomplishing His purposes.
2. Sinful men want to be rid of the presence of God.
3. The holiness of God is demanding and dangerous.
4. Godly repentance requires turning from all sin to serve God alone and completely.
5. Godly repentance means humbling ourselves before the Lord.
6. God acts mightily on behalf of those who humble themselves.
7. We need to remember God's faithfulness in the past.