F. The sixth apostasy chs. 13-16

"From chapters 13 to 18, the author concentrates on the tribe of Dan, which had been one of the largest and most prominent tribes during the wilderness march (Num 2:25-31). In the period of the judges, however, Dan seemed helpless against the Amorites (1:34) and moved northward to find new territory (chs. 17-18). Contrasted with these failures are the exploits of Samson, whose personal achievements are detailed in four chapters. Yet his own life was a strange mixture of the strength and weakness that epitomized the tragic conditions within the tribe itself."²³⁸

 1. Samson's birth ch. 13

The purpose of this chapter is to show how the Lord provided the Israelites with a deliverer from the Philistine oppression.

 2. Samson's intended marriage to the Timnite ch. 14

Chapter 13 describes Samson's potential: his godly heritage, supernatural birth, calling in life, and divine enablement. The Israelites enjoyed each of these privileges, as does every Christian. Chapter 14 reveals Samson's problem and God's providence.

"Despite all these advantages and this special attention, Samson accomplishes less on behalf of his people than any of his predecessors. Perhaps herein lies his significance. . . . Though Samson is impressive as an individual, he turns out to be anything but a military hero. He never leads Israel out in battle; he never engages the Philistines in martial combat; he never experiences a military victory. All his accomplishments are personal; all his victories, private."²⁵³

 3. Samson's vengeance on the Philistines ch. 15

Samson's weaknesses dominate chapter 14, but his strengths shine forth in chapter 15.

 4. Samson's final fatal victory ch. 16

To this point in his history Samson had demonstrated some faith in God even though, "the exploits of Samson read like the actions of an uncontrollable juvenile delinquent."²⁷⁴However his unwillingness to remain dedicated to God resulted eventually in his loss of strength, his enslavement, and his death.