1 Samuel 4:1–11 – “The Power of God” Opening:

Nazis thought if they could find the Ark, they could use it to win World War II!

What is the Ark of the Covenant?

The Ark was a golden chest kept in the Holy of Holies. It symbolized God’s presence, topped by cherubim, with the mercy seat between them. Inside were the tablets of the law, a jar of manna, and Aaron’s rod that budded. It was called the “footstool of God,” showing that He is invisible yet present.

Introduction: Superstition

The people of Israel fell into superstition. They began to treat the Ark of the Covenant like a good-luck charm. Like a rabbit’s foot, they thought it could bring victory if they carried it into battle.

1) You Cannot ______ God

Israel tried to ______ God’s power by bringing the Ark into battle. Instead of ______, they used religion as a ______ tactic. But God will not be ______—He wants ______, not manipulation.

2) You Cannot ______ God

Eli’s sons, ______ and ______, were corrupt priests. They carried the Ark into battle, thinking outward ______ could cover inward ______. But God is not ______ (Galatians 6:7). He judged them and Israel for ______.

3) You Exist for the ______ of God

Israel forgot their ______—to be a ______ to the nations. God chose them to bless all peoples through His ______. They existed to reflect His ______, not their own. (Genesis 12:2–3)

4) You Can Come to the ______ of God

The Ark represented God’s ______, but ______ is now the true Presence of God. When the temple ______ was torn, access to God was opened through ______ (John 14:6). He is our ______ seat and our way to the Father.