The Price of Silence in Teaching Children about the Lord- A Personal Journey Through the Unseen Consequences of Spiritual Neglect

Father sitting on a chair spending quality time with his sons

In the Book of 1 Samuel, the account of Eli and his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, unfolds as a cautionary tale of leadership, corruption, and divine judgment. The passage in 1 Samuel 2:12-36 sheds light on the deteriorating moral and spiritual condition within the house of Eli, who served as the high priest and judge in Israel.

The troubling story begins with the introduction of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were appointed as priests to assist their father in the tabernacle. However, instead of upholding the sacred responsibilities entrusted to them, these sons flagrantly abused their positions and engaged in corrupt practices. The text describes them as "scoundrels" who had no regard for the Lord or the sanctity of the priesthood.

1 Samuel 2:12: Now the sons of Eli were corrupt; they did not know the Lord.

1 Samuel 2:17 Therefore, the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord, for men abhorred the offering of the Lord.

The sin of the young men mentioned in 1 Samuel 2:17 was their corrupt behavior in the context of the offerings made to the Lord. The verse suggests that they were abusing their position as priests by taking more than their rightful share of the sacrifices brought by the people. This unethical behavior, coupled with their disregard for the sanctity of the offerings, led to a situation where people began to detest the act of bringing offerings to the Lord. Essentially, the sin involved both a lack of integrity in handling the offerings and a failure to uphold the reverence due to the sacred rituals.

"As parents, let's emphasize the significance of accountability in leadership. The story of Eli's sons teaches us that leadership is not just about the title but about the faithful execution of responsibilities. May our children grow into leaders who honor God in both word and deed."

Their transgressions included, among other things, taking portions of the sacrifices that did not belong to them and engaging in immoral behavior with the women who served at the entrance to the tent of meeting. The gravity of their actions not only violated the sacred rituals but also desecrated the spiritual atmosphere of the tabernacle.

In response to these egregious sins, a man of God comes to Eli with a divine message of judgment. The prophecy declares that, due to the corruption within Eli's household, both Hophni and Phinehas would die on the same day. Additionally, the priesthood would be taken away from Eli's descendants, and a faithful priest would arise to serve in God's house.

Here is the account of when Eli speaks to his sons:

1 Samuel 2:22-25: Now Eli was very old; and he heard everything his sons did to all Israel, and how they lay with the women who assembled at the door of the tabernacle of meeting.

So he said to them, "Why do you do such things? For I hear of your evil dealings from all the people.

No, my sons! For it is not a good report that I hear. You make the Lord's people transgress.

If one man sins against another, God will judge him. But if a man sins against the Lord, who will intercede for him?" Nevertheless, they did not heed the voice of their father, because the Lord desired to kill them.

Today, as Christians, our actions carry profound influence. Just as Christians drinking at bars could inadvertently lead others astray, let us remember Ephesians 5:3 (NIV):

'But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.' May we strive to live in a manner that glorifies God, avoiding even the slightest suggestion of evil, for our influence can shape the spiritual journeys of those around us."

"Eli's story underscores the critical role parents play in shaping their children's spiritual foundation. It's not enough to passively bring them to church; actively engage in conversations about faith at home. The responsibility to teach falls squarely on our shoulders as parents."

This prophetic announcement underscores the severity of the moral decline within Eli's family and the consequences it would have for future generations. It serves as a powerful reminder that leadership comes with immense responsibility, especially when entrusted with sacred duties. The passage emphasizes the importance of maintaining integrity, reverence for God, and obedience to His commands in positions of authority.

1 Samuel 2:34-36: Now this shall be a sign to you that will come upon your two sons, on Hophni and Phinehas: in one day they shall die, both of them. Then I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest who shall do according to what is in My heart and in My mind. I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before My anointed forever.

"God held Eli accountable for the spiritual condition of his household. Likewise, parents are entrusted with the responsibility to guide their children on matters of faith. Dragging them to church is only the beginning; the true work is in fostering a deep, personal understanding of God's teachings at home."

The narrative of Eli, Hophni, and Phinehas serves as a sobering lesson for leaders and parents in any age, highlighting the need for vigilant self-examination, accountability, and a commitment to upholding the principles of righteousness. Ultimately, it foreshadows the unfolding events in 1 Samuel, setting the stage for the transition from the leadership of Eli to the rise of Samuel and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.

Eli's transition from leadership serves as a potent lesson: negligence within our families and roles, even indirectly, alters our trajectory. As leaders and parents, we must recognize that our actions, both commission and omission, send ripples through our lives, affecting our positions and responsibilities.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I come before You with a heavy heart, acknowledging the times I have fallen short in fulfilling my role as a parent and teacher to my children. I confess that I have neglected the sacred duty of imparting Your truths to them, allowing distractions and worldly concerns to take precedence.

Forgive me, Lord, for the moments I failed to lead by example, for the times I neglected opportunities to instill Your values, and for any compromises I made that hindered their spiritual growth. I repent of my shortcomings and seek Your mercy.

Grant me the wisdom and discernment to recognize the gravity of my responsibility as a parent, and the strength to prioritize their spiritual well-being. Help me to create an environment where Your love and teachings flourish, and where my children can grow in faith and understanding.

Lord, guide me in modeling a life devoted to You, and may my actions and words align with Your will. Fill our home with Your grace and mercy, and may Holy Spirit prompt me to be a faithful steward of the precious souls You have entrusted to my care.

In Jesus' name, I pray.

Amen.