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Book of 1 Samuel - Chapter 2 - Verse 17

2:17
Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD.

Meaning

The verse "Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men abhorred the offering of the LORD." from the Bible highlights the serious consequences of the behavior of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were priests but were corrupt and disrespectful in their dealings with God's offerings. Their actions greatly displeased the Lord, as they not only sinned themselves but also caused others to despise the sacrifices being made. This verse serves as a warning about the importance of honoring and obeying God's commands, especially for those in positions of authority or leadership within the church. It emphasizes the significance of offering genuine and sincere worship to God, rather than going through the motions without true reverence and devotion. The verse reminds readers of the importance of living in obedience to God's will and reflecting His holiness in all aspects of life.

Theological Overview

This verse from 1 Samuel 2:17 highlights the serious nature of the sin committed by the young priests in the house of the Lord. The key word in this verse is "abhorred," which implies a strong feeling of disgust or hatred towards something. In this context, the men abhorred the offering of the Lord because the priests were not conducting themselves in a manner that was pleasing to God. The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of offering sincere and righteous worship to the Lord. When those entrusted with the spiritual leadership fail to uphold the standards set by God, it can lead to a rejection of their offerings and ultimately a distancing from God Himself. This verse serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unfaithfulness and disobedience in the service of the Lord. It also serves as a call to all believers to ensure that their worship and service are pleasing in the sight of God.

American Standard Version

And the sin of the young men was very great before Jehovah; for the men despised the offering of Jehovah.
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