1 Samuel 3:12

In that day I will perform against Eli all [things] which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end.

In that day {H3117} I will perform {H6965} against Eli {H5941} all things which I have spoken {H1696} concerning {H413} his house {H1004}: when I begin {H2490}, I will also make an end {H3615}.

On that day I will do against 'Eli everything I have said with regard to his family, from beginning to end.

On that day I will carry out against Eli everything I have spoken about his family, from beginning to end.

In that day I will perform against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from the beginning even unto the end.

Commentary

Context of 1 Samuel 3:12

This powerful verse marks a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, as it is part of the first direct prophetic message delivered by God to young Samuel. Samuel, serving under the high priest Eli, hears God's voice calling him in the night (1 Samuel 3:10). The message God gives Samuel is a severe pronouncement of judgment against the house of Eli. This judgment was not new; it confirms a previous prophecy delivered by an unnamed "man of God" to Eli himself (1 Samuel 2:27-36). Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, had gravely dishonored God through their corrupt practices and immorality in the tabernacle, and Eli, despite knowing their wickedness, had failed to restrain them effectively, thereby showing greater honor to his sons than to God.

Key Themes in 1 Samuel 3:12

  • Divine Judgment and Accountability: The verse highlights God's unwavering justice. Eli, as the spiritual leader and father, was held accountable for the rampant sin of his sons and his failure to exercise proper authority and discipline. God does not overlook unrighteousness, especially among those entrusted with sacred duties.
  • The Certainty of God's Word: "I will perform... all [things] which I have spoken" underscores the reliability and faithfulness of God. What He declares, He will bring to pass. His prophecies are not idle threats but definite declarations that will be fulfilled.
  • Finality of God's Decree: The phrase "when I begin, I will also make an end" emphasizes the absolute completeness and irreversibility of the coming judgment. Once God initiates His disciplinary action, it will not be partial, delayed, or subject to reversal; it will be brought to a full and decisive conclusion.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew phrase translated as "make an end" is kalleh (ื›ึผึทืœึผึตื”), which conveys a sense of thorough completion or consumption. It signifies that the judgment, once started, will be carried out to its uttermost, leaving no room for partial fulfillment or escape. This isn't merely a cessation of action, but a definitive bringing to a close, a fulfillment of the entire decree.

Practical Application

1 Samuel 3:12 offers profound lessons for believers today:

  • Parental and Spiritual Responsibility: This verse serves as a solemn warning about the importance of diligent and faithful leadership within families and spiritual communities. Parents and leaders are called to actively confront sin and to guide those under their care in righteousness, prioritizing God's honor above all else.
  • The Seriousness of Sin: It reminds us that sin, particularly when committed by those in positions of spiritual authority, has far-reaching and severe consequences. God takes holiness seriously, and disobedience will not go unaddressed.
  • Trust in God's Character: While this verse speaks of judgment, it also reinforces the truth that God is faithful to His word. Just as He fulfills His warnings, He also fulfills His promises. This unwavering nature of God's word, which will not return to Him void, assures us of His justice and His commitment to His covenant.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 2:27 (4 votes)

    ยถ And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh's house?

  • 1 Samuel 2:36 (4 votes)

    And it shall come to pass, [that] every one that is left in thine house shall come [and] crouch to him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray thee, into one of the priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread.

  • Numbers 23:19 (2 votes)

    God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

  • Zechariah 1:6 (2 votes)

    But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers? and they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.

  • Joshua 23:15 (2 votes)

    Therefore it shall come to pass, [that] as all good things are come upon you, which the LORD your God promised you; so shall the LORD bring upon you all evil things, until he have destroyed you from off this good land which the LORD your God hath given you.

  • Luke 21:33 (2 votes)

    Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.