Ichabod: Where Is The Glory? Series

Ichabod: Where is the Glory?

Introduction:

In our study of the book of Samuel, we come across a tragic event that signifies the departure of the glory of God from His people. The story of the Ark of the Covenant and its capture by the Philistines reveals the consequences of sin and disobedience. However, it also teaches us about the faith and spiritual insight of an unexpected character.

Ichabod (the son of Phinehas, a priest at the shrine of Shiloh) is a biblical figure mentioned in the First Book of Samuel. His name is derived from Hebrew and carries significant symbolism in the context of the narrative.

1. Background:

To set the stage, let's begin with a brief understanding of the historical and biblical context. The book of 1 Samuel transports us back in time to a period when the Israelites were living under the leadership of judges, and the priesthood was marred by corruption. It was a time when the people of Israel were facing numerous challenges, both from external foes and internal moral decay.

Our focus today is on a specific incident that unfolded during this tumultuous era. In 1 Samuel 4:19-22, we encounter a narrative that encapsulates the spiritual condition of Israel at the time. It tells the story of Phinehas's wife, who was expecting a child. When she heard that the Ark of the Covenant, a symbol of God's presence and glory, had been taken into battle against the Philistines, she went into labor. The news of the Ark's capture and the death of her husband and father-in-law was so devastating that she named her child "Ichabod," which means "the glory has departed," saying, "The glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured."

This poignant moment in Israel's history raises questions that continue to resonate with us today: What happens when the glory of God departs from a people? How do we recognize His presence in our lives, and what are the consequences of neglecting it?

2. The Situation:

As we continue our exploration of the story of Ichabod and the departure of God's glory, it's essential to understand the situation that had developed among God's people during this time.

The narrative in 1 Samuel 1-4 provides us with a window into the spiritual climate of Israel at that moment. It was a period marked by moral decay, a wavering commitment to God's ways, and a compromised priesthood. Let's briefly examine the situation:

- Hannah's Desperation: The story begins with Hannah, a barren woman who fervently prays for a child. Her earnest prayer and dedication to God serve as a stark contrast to the spiritual condition of the nation. Hannah's faith and trust in God's promises stand out as a beacon of hope.

- Eli's Sons and Their Corruption: Meanwhile, the priesthood, entrusted with the sacred duty of serving God and leading the people in worship, was riddled with corruption. Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were engaged in flagrant sins, including taking the best portions of sacrifices for themselves and committing immorality at the entrance of the tabernacle (1 Samuel 2:12-17).

- The Ark of the Covenant: The Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence, was being used as a talisman of victory rather than a symbol of reverence and holiness. It was brought into battle against the Philistines, presuming that its presence alone would ensure victory, but the result was disastrous (1 Samuel 4).

This situation paints a picture of a nation that had lost its spiritual moorings, where God's glory was often disregarded or misused. It serves as a stark warning about what can happen when we neglect God's presence and glory in our own lives and communities.

In the next part of our sermon, we will delve into the consequences of these actions, the etymology of Ichabod, and the importance of understanding the significance of the Ark of the Covenant.

II. Where is the Glory of God:

As we continue our journey through the story of Ichabod and the departure of God's glory, we come to a crucial question: Where is the glory of God in our lives and in our world today?

1. The Glory Of God and His People:

In the Scriptures, God's glory is often depicted as a radiant cloud or a consuming fire. In Exodus 40:34-35, we read about the moment when the cloud of God's glory filled the tabernacle. It was a tangible manifestation of His presence among His people. The significance of this cannot be overstated. God's glory wasn't an abstract concept; it was a reality that the Israelites could see and experience.

Similarly, in Psalm 24:7-10, we encounter the declaration, "Lift up your heads, O gates! And be lifted up, O ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in." God's glory is associated with His kingship and authority. It's a call for us to recognize His majesty and welcome His presence into our lives.