Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption - Continue

 Imagine young Samuel watching wide-eyed, as such gross abuses went on uncorrected. How many people did he see-including poor, humble, downtrodden fold-approaching that sacred tabernacle in hopes of finding some spiritual comfort and strength, only to leave disappointed, hurt, or humiliated? and how did he feel when he learned that Hophni and Phinehas also disregarded Jehovah's laws on sexual immorality, as they had sexual relations with some of the women who were serving there at the tabernacle? (Samuel 2:22) Perhaps he looked hopefully to Eli to do something about it.

Eli was in the best position to address the growing disaster. As high priest, he was responsible for what took place at the tabernacle. As a father, he had the obligation to correct his sons. After all, they were hurting themselves as well as countless others in the land. However, Eli failed on both counts, as a father and as high priest. He offered his sons only a bland weak scolding. (Read 1 Samuel 2:23-25) But his sons needed far stronger discipline. They were committing sins worthy of death?

Next time: Staying Pure in the Face of Corruption -Continue

From the jw.org publication