Life Group Questions

1. If you could not hear this week’s sermon, consider going to the church website and listening to it. What main ideas did you gain from the message? Do you have any questions?

2. How does the beginning of this chapter’s statement about Israel differ from other times in the book (cf. Judges 2:11; 3:7, 12; 4:1; 6:1; 10:6; 13:1)? Why do you think the writer left out the idea of Israel’s crying out to the Lord (cf. 15:11)?

3. Read chapters 13-16 and describe the writer’s general view and presentation of Samson. How does the life and character of Samson differ from the expectations set by the Messenger of the Lord in our section? How does your life measure up with the Lord’s call upon you to salvation and service?

4. Look at Numbers 6:1-21 and describe some of the points about a Nazarite vow. What was the purpose of this vow? Why do you think these specific items were listed as part of the vow (e.g., not cutting one’s hair, etc.)? Should we or can we make a Nazarite vow today?

5. Who is this Angel or Messenger of the Lord mentioned in this passage? You may want to consider the following passages: Judges 2:1-3; 5:23; 6:11; 13:18-22; etc. Do you think this Messenger is the same one mentioned in other parts of Scripture? Why or why not?

6. Why do you think Manoah’s wife’s name is never given to us? How does the nature of the Messenger’s message compare with other similar occurrences in Scripture (cf. Genesis 17, 1 Samuel 1)?

7. What does it mean that God knows us better than we know ourselves? Do you believe this is a true statement? Why or why not? Read the following Scriptures and provide any observations you may have: Psalm 139:1-6; Matthew 6:7-8; Romans 8:26-27.

8. What impact did Manoah’s wife have upon the call of Samson? Why do you think the Messenger gave such strict requirements even before his birth? What are some ways in which we can have positive and negative impact upon other people and God’s purpose for their life?

9. Read the following passages: Psalm 9:1-2; 26:6-7; 71:15-16; 89:1; 145:1-7; 1 Peter 2:9. How are you doing at proclaiming the Gospel? Are you willing to be used of God to proclaim His glory and goodness? Take time to pray about this.

by Terry Beatty /  Lead Teacher and Ministry Vision