Main Highlights
Samson desires to marry a Philistine woman. At his wedding feast, he proposes a riddle, and when the Philistines cheat to solve it, he retaliates by killing thirty men and taking their garments.
Key Verses
Then the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon and struck down thirty men of the town and took their spoil and gave the garments to those who had told the riddle.- Judges 14:19
Related Scripture
Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.”- 1 Corinthians 15:33
Scholar Insight
"Samson's decision to marry a Philistine woman was not necessarily a wise one. God did not command him to marry outside the covenant people of Israel (Deuteronomy 7:1-4). But God in his sovereignty worked in Samson's life to bring about His intended result despite Samson's poor choice. (The Apologetics Study Bible, p. 419)"
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
God can use even flawed individuals and their sinful actions to accomplish His purposes, though that does not excuse or condone the sin. 'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.' (Isaiah 55:8)
Christological Connection
Jesus is referenced in this passage as the one who takes what man intends for evil and uses it for his glory.
Systematic Theology
The Providence of God. God ordains and governs all things, even evil actions, to fulfill his ultimate plan.
Law & Grace
Samson's initial pursuit of a Philistine woman could be seen as a failure to uphold the Law (separation from pagan influences). God still uses this for His purposes, which demonstrates Grace. 'For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.' (Romans 6:14)
Personal Application
Be careful about the influences they allow into their lives. Even when someone makes poor choices, they should be open to God's redemptive work. 'Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.' (Ephesians 5:17)