From the Men’s Bible Study podcast by John Mark Caton

Talking Points:
  • The first pillar of biblical manhood is to “be on guard.” Samson from the Old Testament is a good example of how NOT to do it. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
  • Samson’s downward spiral started when he stopped listening to wisdom. Wisdom will tell you the truth, even when it’s a truth you don’t want to hear. Judges 14:1-3
  • Samson’s spiral continued when he didn’t watch his eyes. Samson was an incredibly strong man with an incredibly weak will; he had no “eye discipline.” Judges 16:1
  • Samson consistently trusted the wrong person – the woman at Timnah, the prostitute, and Delilah. But it wasn’t the fault of the women; Samson’s problem was Samson! 
  • Samson was a guy who lived with an unhealthy, unbridled lust. In spite of this, God used him in a mighty way. Judges 13:5
Discussion:
  1. Read 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. What does it mean to “be on guard?”
  2. Read Judges 14:1-3. Who is a truth-teller in your life? Share an example of when you accepted or rejected wisdom. 
  3. Read 1 John 2:15-16. What do your eyes crave (women, stuff, etc.)? How does that play out in your daily life? What’s the solution?
  4. Share an example of when you trusted the wrong person. How long did you blame that person for your troubles instead of taking ownership for your decisions?
  5. Why do you think God used Samson?

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