We just got back from chapel–Jeff Anderson (brother of Chris) did a great job. He preached without notes! It was from 1 Sam. 7–with lots of background from chapters 2-6.

The glory of the Lord departs when
- God’s people overlook sin in their lives and their leaders (Hophni and Phineas)
- Relics replace true Christianity (ark brought as symbol of God’s presence instead of seeking God’s presence; illustrated by Christian bumper stickers, jewelry, t-shirts)
- Emotionalism replaces true worship (“great shout” when ark arrives on battlefield; he illustrated how he would try to create the Wilds’ fireside service at home to get back to where he had been emotionally during camp)

(ch. 7)
True spiritual leaders lead people to
- return to God

- rely on God (Samuel’s prayer for the people)

- remember God (“Ebenezer”–the Lord was our help)

Today he focused more on the 1st point–returning to God, and gave an excellent summary of necessary repentance:

- Turning from sin

Sin offends a holy God

Sin hurts people

- Turning from self

- Turning to the Savior

The encouraging thing is that just this week, I taught the story of Samuel’s childlike obedience to God from ch. 4. I also included the contrast of Eli’s sons, as well as the ark’s journey to the battlefield and the birth of Ichabod.

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