1 Samuel 2:35 - A Faithful Priest
Introduction
In the book of 1 Samuel, chapter 2, verse 35, God speaks to the prophet Samuel about the fate of Eli's household. This verse marks a turning point in the history of Israel, as God prepares to raise up a new priest who will be faithful to Him.
The Context
In 1 Samuel 2:12-36, God rebukes Eli's household for their corruption and wickedness. Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, had become corrupt and disobedient, taking God's offerings for themselves and committing adultery with the women who served at the entrance of the tabernacle. God announces that He will raise up a faithful priest who will do His will, and that Eli's household will be punished for their sins.
The Promise of a Faithful Priest
1 Samuel 2:35 says, "And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind. And I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before my anointed for ever."
In this verse, God promises to raise up a new priest who will be faithful to Him. This priest will do God's will and obey His commands. God will establish a new dynasty of priests, one that will be faithful and obedient to Him.
The Significance of 1 Samuel 2:35
The promise of a faithful priest in 1 Samuel 2:35 is significant because it highlights God's desire for a relationship with His people. God is not interested in empty rituals or corrupt priests; He desires a genuine relationship with His people, led by faithful priests who will obey His commands.
This verse also points forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest who would mediate between God and humanity. Through Jesus, God would establish a new covenant with His people, one that would be based on faith and obedience, rather than empty rituals and sacrifices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 1 Samuel 2:35 is a significant verse that highlights God's desire for a faithful priest who will obey His commands. This verse marks a turning point in the history of Israel, as God prepares to raise up a new priest who will do His will. This promise ultimately points forward to the coming of Jesus Christ, the ultimate High Priest who would mediate between God and humanity.
