Bible Strands
1 Samuel 2:25
If a man sins against another man, God can intercede for him; but if a man sins against the LORD, who can intercede for him?” But they would not listen to their father, since the LORD intended to put them to death.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Eli confronts his sons Hophni and Phinehas regarding the corrupt reports circulating among the LORD’s people. He delivers this warning immediately before the narrative transitions to the boy Samuel’s continued growth in favor.
The words — The Hebrew ye.che.Ta (H2398) denotes a deliberate act of sinning, paired with u./fi.L/o (H6419) for mediating or interceding on behalf of another. The text contrasts human-to-human transgression with direct rebellion against Yahweh.
The thread — This theme of uninterceded rebellion against God echoes in Numbers 15:30 regarding defiant sin and 1 Samuel 3:14 where Eli’s house iniquity cannot be atoned for. The narrative also aligns with Joshua 11:20 in showing how the LORD intentionally hardens hearts to bring about judgment.
Why it lands — The text establishes that sin against the LORD carries irreversible consequences because no human mediation can override divine judgment. It demands recognition that ignoring prophetic warning seals a people’s fate under sovereign decree.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Hebrew words
King James Version
If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the Lord would slay them.
Cross-references
- Numbers 15:30 But the person who sins defiantly, whether a native or foreigner, blasphemes the LORD. That person shall be cut off from among his people.
- Joshua 11:20 For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts to engage Israel in battle, so that they would be set apart for destruction and would receive no mercy, being annihilated as the LORD had commanded Moses.
- 1 Samuel 3:14 Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli, ‘The iniquity of Eli’s house shall never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’”
- Hebrews 10:26 If we deliberately go on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no further sacrifice for sins remains,
- Proverbs 15:10 Discipline is harsh for him who leaves the path; he who hates correction will die.
- 1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus,
- Hebrews 7:25 Therefore He is able to save completely those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to intercede for them.
- Deuteronomy 1:17 Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it.”
- 2 Chronicles 25:16 While he was still speaking, the king asked, “Have we made you the counselor to the king? Stop! Why be struck down?” So the prophet stopped, but he said, “I know that God has determined to destroy you, because you have done this and have not heeded my advice.”
- Psalms 51:4 Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You may be proved right when You speak and blameless when You judge.