The Destruction of the Philistines

Judges 16:23-30

    Samson is brought forth during a public celebration of the Philistine God Dagon. The Philistine kings were celebrating their victory over Samson. They had too much wine and food.

      "Our God Dagon has given us great victory over our enemy Samson!" they prayed. Of course, their god Dagon had nothing to do with it. There is no god Dagon at all. It was the one and only God who brought Samson to the Philistines. And it wasn't going to be a victory for them.

     "Let's bring Samson out here, so we can have some fun!" the kings said, thinking they were so powerful, and Samson was blind and weak. They made Samson stand by the columns of the great temple they were feasting in. Remember now that Samson's hair is starting to grow back.

     "Let me touch the columns that hold up the temple, so I can lean against them," Samson whispered to the boy who was leading him. The temple was crowded with over three thousand men and women, and they were all having a great time, making fun of Samson and his God. But Samson was quietly praying.

     "Dear Lord, my King," he prayed, "please remember me, your servant. Give me strength just one more time." And then Samson put his hands on the columns, one on each side. He pushed with all his might. The pillars gave way, and the great stones of the building came crashing down in a thundering roar and cloud of dust. It all came tumbling down on the five evil kings and all the evil people who were celebrating there.

     It was Samson's victory after all. Samson was dedicated to God. His uncut hair was sign that he was set apart for God. He was like the spotless lambs the Jews would set aside as an offering to God in payment for their sins. John the Baptist called Jesus "The Lamb of God." Jesus came to be a spotless offering for our sins.