In the very first verse we learn that Samuel prophesies to the people many things which can't be written (I really really really wish I knew what these things were), but more importantly, he prophesies in a very specific way when he tells them the Lord will come in 5 years to redeem the people who believe in him and tells them the signs that will appear so that they will know when these great events are happening half a world away. I love how God doesn't just leave them in the dark...okay, they will be in the dark, but just because it is one of the signs.
And then Samuel teaches again about faith and repentance and remission of sins and resurrection, but my favorite part of the chapter is at the end where he reminds them of their free agency to choose to believe this or not to believe. He also reminds them of the consequences.
And now remember, remember, my brethren, that whosoever perisheth, perisheth unto himself; and whosoever doeth iniquity, doeth it unto himself; for behold, ye are free; ye are permitted to act for yourselves; for behold, God hath given unto you a knowledge and he hath made you free.
He hath given unto you that ye might know good from evil, and he hath given unto you that ye might choose life or death; and ye can do good and be restored unto that which is good, or have that which is good restored unto you; or ye can do evil, and have that which is evil restored unto you. (vs. 30,31)
"...for behold, God hath given unto you a knowledge and he hath made you free."
And that is a great and a fearsome thing.
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