GLOOM & DOOM (6)

0. Introduction

a) It wasn't easy being a prophet. Most of the messages they had to give were very unpleasant to hear. They preached of repentance, judgment, impending destruction, sin, and in general, how displeased God was over the behavior of his people. Prophets were not the most popular people in town (unless they were false prophets and said what the people wanted to hear). But popularity was not the bottom line for true prophets of God - it was obedience to God and faithfully proclaiming his word. Samuel is a good example of a faithful prophet.

b) God has words for us to proclaim as well. And although his messages are loaded with "good news," there is also "bad news" to give. May we, like true prophets, faithfully deliver all God's words, regardless of their popularity or lack of it.

1. Message: "If you continue in sin, you will be destroyed by God" (1 Samuel 12:13-25)

2. What is the text all about?

a) Why did God make Israel "His people"? God did not choose them because they deserved it, but in order that they might become his channel of blessing to all people through the Messiah. Because God chose the people of Israel, he would never abandon them, but because they were his special people, he would often punish them for their disobedience in order to bring them back to a right relationship with him.

b) Is failing to pray for others a sin? Samuel's words seem to indicate that it is. His actions illustrate two of God's people's responsibilities:

@1. they should pray consistently for others, and,

@2. they should teach others the right way to God.

c) Samuel disagreed with the Israelites' demand for a king, but he assured them that he would continue to pray for them and teach them. We may disagree with others, but we shouldn't stop praying for them.

d) This is the second time in his farewell speech that Samuel reminded the people to take time to consider what great things God had done for them. Taking time for reflection allows us to focus our attention upon God's goodness and strengths our faith. Sometimes we are so progress- and future-oriented that we fail to take time to recall all that God has already done. Remember what God has done for you so that you may move ahead with gratitude.

e) If we "still do wickedly" (continue to sin), we will not enjoy fellowship with God, and we will end up destroying ourselves. Persisting in destructive habits, immoral thoughts, and harbored resentments and failing to heed God's Word are examples of continuing in sin. 

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