Samson: How God Used A Womanizer (Judges 13-16)

Samson's story has many Hollywood themes: illicit sex, graphic violence, revenge, death and a Rambo style hero. But his story is perplexing. He was conceived miraculously, chosen by God, set apart to serve him from birth, blessed by God and empowered by his Spirit. Yet, he may be the most flawed character in Judges. He is violent, impulsive, sexually addicted, emotionally immature and selfish. Most troubling of all, the "Spirit of God" seems to anoint him and use his worst sins for God's purpose--especially his sexual addiction and violent temper. How can such a person ever be called and chosen by God to fulfill his purpose of redemption?

Whose Eyes Matter?

1. The phrase "did evil in the eyes of the Lord" is repeated (Judg 2:11; 3:7, 12; 4:1; 6:1; 10:6; 13:1). Do God's eyes matter more than your own eyes? How might you rationalize sin? 

Do You Like To Live According To Rules?

2. Why did Manaoh ask for rules to govern the life of his son (Judg 13:12), and for the name of the angel of the Lord (Judg 13:17)? How did the angel answer (Judg 13:13, 18)? What do you learn here? 

How Can God Use A Sex Addicted Womanizer?

3. Explain Judg 14:4. What does Judg 14:2-3 tell us about Samson? Why is it exciting, liberating and humbling to know that the Spirit of God works powerfully even through flawed people (Judg 14:6, 19; 15:14)? 

4. Contrast the gifts of the Spirit (1 Cor 12 and 14) with the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23). How do you not allow your own unique gifts (friendship, teaching, leadership) and mistake them for holiness, spirituality or maturity?

5. Why does Samson not learn anything from his past (Judg 16:1-4)? What is the danger of success? How does outward gains in your life become inward losses? Are there outward losses that God is using to cause inward gains? 

6. Contrast gift-love and need-love. How does this play out between Samson and Delilah (Judg 16:6-19)?

7. How does the manner and achievement of Samson's death (victorious defeat) move you to appreciate and praise the Lord Jesus for his (Judg 16:28-31; Col 2:15)?