When Leadership Fails Series

WHEN LEADERSHIP FAILS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 2:12-36

Supporting Texts: Ezekiel 34:1–10, Malachi 2:7–9, Matthew 23:1–4, James 3:1, 1 Peter 5:2–4

INTRODUCTION:

Leadership is one of the most powerful and influential positions in both the spiritual and secular realms. When leaders walk in righteousness, they elevate those they lead, but when leadership fails, the consequences are widespread and devastating. In the house of God, spiritual leadership is not only a position of authority but also a sacred trust that must be handled with fear and reverence. Leaders are called to reflect the character of God and to represent His will among His people.

In the days of Eli the priest, the corruption and moral decay of his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, revealed a deep-seated rot in the priesthood. These were men who were supposed to stand in the gap between God and His people, yet they defiled the altar and desecrated the sacred office they held. Their actions brought reproach upon the sanctuary and provoked divine judgment. The failure of Eli to restrain them compounded the tragedy, showing how leadership negligence can perpetuate generational sin.

This passage challenges every leader, parent, minister, and spiritual authority to examine their conduct, motives, and stewardship. It exposes the danger of compromising holiness, ignoring accountability, and tolerating sin within the house of God. When leadership fails, the consequences extend far beyond the individual—they affect families, institutions, and the destiny of nations.

1. THE SINS OF CORRUPT PRIESTS

a) They Knew Not the Lord (1 Samuel 2:12)

The Bible explicitly calls the sons of Eli “sons of Belial” and states that they did not know the Lord. They held positions of spiritual authority, yet had no personal relationship with the God they were meant to serve. Their lack of spiritual intimacy led to immoral actions.

b) They Abused Their Office for Greed (1 Samuel 2:13–16)

Instead of honouring the sacrificial system established by God, they used violence and coercion to take the best parts of the offerings for themselves. They treated holy things as common and used their position to enrich themselves.

c) They Committed Sexual Immorality (1 Samuel 2:22)

They lay with the women who came to serve at the tabernacle. This shameful behaviour not only defiled their priestly garments but also brought scandal to the house of God.

d) They Had No Fear of God

Their actions showed complete disregard for God’s holiness and for the office they held. They were religious men outwardly but corrupt and reprobate inwardly.

e) Biblical Example: In the days of Jeremiah, the prophets and priests became corrupt and led the people astray (Jeremiah 23:11–12). God declared judgment on them for defiling His temple and polluting His name.

2. ELI’S FAILURE AS A SPIRITUAL FATHER

a) He Was Aware of Their Actions (1 Samuel 2:22–24)

Eli heard of all that his sons were doing, both in their abuse of offerings and their sexual misconduct. Though he rebuked them with words, his actions lacked enforcement and urgency.

b) He Placed Family Above God (1 Samuel 2:29)

God rebuked Eli for honouring his sons above the Lord. He allowed them to continue in ministry, despite their blatant sins. Leadership that refuses to discipline in love dishonours God.

c) He Failed in Stewardship of the Priesthood

Eli was entrusted with the priestly office not only to perform rituals but to uphold God’s standards. His neglect showed a breach of responsibility that invited judgment.

d) He Did Not Restrain Them (1 Samuel 3:13)

God later made it clear that Eli’s failure was not just about ignorance but inaction. He knew and did nothing. Failing to correct sin among those we lead is complicity.

e) Biblical Example: Aaron’s failure to restrain the people during the golden calf incident (Exodus 32:1–4, 21–25) led to moral collapse and divine anger.

3. GOD’S RESPONSE TO FAILED LEADERSHIP

a) Prophetic Confrontation (1 Samuel 2:27–29)

God sent a man of God to confront Eli and expose the sins of his house. When leadership fails, God often raises a prophetic voice to call out the error and pronounce warning.

b) Removal of Honour (1 Samuel 2:30)

God declared that those who honour Him would be honoured, but those who despise Him would be lightly esteemed. Eli’s family forfeited a lasting legacy because of dishonour.

c) Generational Judgment (1 Samuel 2:31–33)

The judgment was not just for Eli but extended to his lineage. Leadership failure can affect generations if not repented of.

d) God Raised Another Faithful Priest (1 Samuel 2:35)

While judgment was being pronounced, God already had a replacement in view—someone who would walk faithfully and do all His heart desires. God always preserves a remnant.

e) Biblical Example: Saul’s disobedience led to God choosing David as king (1 Samuel 13:13–14). When leaders fail, God raises another who will do His will.