7. The Book of Judges 13:1 - 16:311

Almighty and eternal God,
you have revealed your glory to all nations.
God of power and might, wisdom and justice,
through you authority is rightly administered,
laws are enacted, and judgment is decreed.
Assist with your spirit of Counsel and fortitude,
the President of these United States
that his administration may be conducted in righteousness,
and be eminently useful to your people over whom he presides.
May he encourage due respect for virtue and religion.
May he execute the laws with justice and mercy.
May he seek to restrain crime, vice and immorality.
We likewise commend to your unbounded mercy
all who dwell in the United States.
Bless us and all people with the peace which the world cannot give.
We pray to you, who are Lord and God, forever and ever. Amen.

Archbishop John Carroll

Review

Presentation Sins of the Leaders and Social Conscience
Glossary

Levite = 1) a member of the tribe of Levi; 2) a male assigned to assist in Jewish worship.
Nazirite = one consecrated to God by a vow to avoid drinking alcohol, cutting his hair, or being defiled by a corpose
Philistine = a sea-faring people that occupied the shephelah or coastal region of Palestine

Find these Locations on a Map

Zorah
Timnah
Ashkelon
Gaza

Identify these Famous Persons

Samson

Where do we find the passage about him? Jdgs 13-16 --- Jdgs 13:5
Background

Where was he born? Where did he live?
Zorah, Timnah, Ashkelon, Gaza, Valley of Sorek
Who were in his/her family?
the parents? Manoah
Tribe & clan? Dan

Strengths and Accomplishments?

Dedicated to God from birth as a Nazirite
Known for his feats of strength
Ruled for 20 years
Began to free Israel from Philistine oppression

Weaknesses and mistakes?

Violated his vow and God's law on many occasions
Was controlled by sensuality
ConfiDed in the wrong people
Used his gifts and abilities unwisely

Lessons from his life?

Great strength in one area of life does not make up for great weaknesses in other areas
God's presence does not overwhelm a person's will

Connections with other parts of the Bible? Heb 11:32

Faith sharing Questions

What does the Catholic Church teach about mixed marriages?

Samson had a proclivity towards women of pagan religion which eventually led to his downfall. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1633-1637

Intercesssory Prayer
Assignment for this Week
Kay Arthur Choosing victory; Overcoming Defeat Week 7 p. 87