The warning is there for a reason.
Exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. (Heb 3:13)
This sermon, inspired by that warning, considers the story of Samson as documented by God in Judges 13-16.
- A child specifically promised to a barren woman by an angel of the LORD (Jud 13:2-3).
- To be raised as a Nazirite to God from the womb (Jud 13:4-5).
- A man of incredible physical strength (Jud 14:5-6,19; 15:4-8,14-17).
But Judges 16 represents a pivotal and tragic turn in Samson’s life.
- A Philistine prostitute (Jud 16:1-3).
- Delilah (Jud 16:4-20).
And it is here that the three dirty secrets of sin are on full display.
- Sin will carry me farther than I want to go (Rom 5:12; 1 Cor 6:9-10; Gal 6:7).
- Sin will keep me longer than I want to stay (Jud 16:21; 2 Pet 2:10-22).
- Sin will cost me more than I ever wanted to pay (Jud 16:22-30; Jam 1:12-18).
“Whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction…” (Rom 15:4). We would do well to pay attention.
This sermon was delivered on April 1, 2012.