Obedience in the Atmosphere of Contempt
1 Samuel 2:17–18 (ESV) Thus the sin of the young men was very great in the sight of the Lord , for the men treated the offering of the Lord with contempt. 18 Samuel was ministering before the Lord , a boy clothed with a linen ephod. The first two chapters of Samuel provide a theme for the rest of the narrative. In the midst of corrupt political power, God is raising up His servants to faithfully obey Him and establish His kingdom on the Earth. I can't think of a more important truth for Christian service in any age. Consider Hannah's fervent prayer in chapter one amidst the ignorance, arrogance, and indifference to her struggle from all those around her (her rival wife, arrogant Eli and indifferent Elkanah). Now her son will be placed in a situation much like her own. Samuel will grow up in the Temple. But this Temple is far removed from Aaron's priesthood. The priesthood is corrupt and Eli's family was fragmented. His sons are wicked and will not listen to hi...