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Bruce Hempel delivers a sermon contrasting the faithfulness of Hannah with the unfaithfulness of Eli’s sons in 1 Samuel 1-2. He emphasizes devotion, keeping promises to God, and the importance of worship as a lifestyle of sacrifice. The message warns against self-centeredness and calls believers to live as faithful priests, honoring God in all areas of life.
- [00:00:00] Bruce opens by sharing his absence due to prison ministry during the holidays and his reflection on Bill’s prior teaching from 1 Samuel 3.
- [00:00:57] He introduces 1 Samuel 2, dividing it into Hannah’s exaltation (vv. 1-11) and Eli’s sons’ corruption (vv. 12-36).
- [00:01:43] Hannah’s barrenness and vow to dedicate Samuel to God (1 Samuel 1:11) exemplify faithfulness. Bruce stresses keeping promises to God, citing two Vietnam veterans’ contrasting responses to vows made in crisis.
- [00:06:36] Hannah’s song (1 Samuel 2:1-11) celebrates God’s sovereignty and her sacrificial worship. Bruce defines worship as a 24/7 offering of life to God, not just singing.
- [00:13:16] Eli’s sons are condemned for greed and immorality (1 Samuel 2:12-17, 22-25). Their disregard for God’s offerings contrasts with Hannah’s devotion.
- [00:17:35] A prophet rebukes Eli for honoring his sons above God (1 Samuel 2:27-36), foretelling their judgment. Bruce notes Eli’s weak reproof and complicity.
- [00:22:53] The prophecy of a “faithful priest” (1 Samuel 2:35) points ultimately to Christ as the perfect High Priest (Hebrews 4:14-16). Believers are called to be royal priests (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 1:6).
- [00:26:32] Application: Bruce urges faithfulness in temptation, rejecting self-glory, and living to honor God “in all I do.” He closes with prayer for sacrificial worship and purity.
Scripture References
- 1 Samuel 1
- 1 Samuel 2
- 1 Samuel 2:1-11
- 1 Samuel 2:12-17
- 1 Samuel 2:22-25
- 1 Samuel 2:27-36
- Hebrews 4:14-16
- 1 Peter 2:9
- Revelation 1:6
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