Tumors

1 Samuel 4:22-5:6 – She said, “The Glory has departed from Israel, for the ark of God has been captured.” After the Philistines had captured the ark of God, they took it from Ebenezer to Ashdod. Then they carried the ark into Dagon’s temple and set it beside Dagon. When the people of Ashdod rose early the next day, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the Lord! They took Dagon and put him back in his place. But the following morning when they rose, there was Dagon, fallen on his face on the ground before the ark of the Lord! His head and hands had been broken off and were lying on the threshold; only his body remained. That is why to this day neither the priests of Dagon nor any others who enter Dagon’s temple at Ashdod step on the threshold. The Lord’s hand was heavy on the people of Ashdod and its vicinity; he brought devastation on them and afflicted them with tumors.

Psalm 78:61 – He sent the ark of his might into captivity, his splendor into the hands of the enemy.

Micah 1:7 – All her idols will be broken to pieces; all her temple gifts will be burned with fire; I will destroy all her images. Since she gathered her gifts from the wages of prostitutes, as the wages of prostitutes they will again be used.”

2 Samuel 6:7 – The Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God.

Deuteronomy 28:58-59 – If you do not carefully follow all the words of this law, which are written in this book, and do not revere this glorious and awesome name—the Lord your God—the Lord will send fearful plagues on you and your descendants, harsh and prolonged disasters, and severe and lingering illnesses.

Application:

• ·         The ark is called his might and splendor because it was the sign of God’s kingship in Israel and the focal point for the display of His power and glory.
• ·         Prostitution is often an Old Testament symbol for idolatry or spiritual unfaithfulness.
• ·         Although Uzzah’s intent may have been good, he violated the clear instructions the Lord had given for handling the ark.
• ·         At this important new beginning in Israel’s life with the Lord, he gives a shocking and vivid reminder to David and Israel that those who claim to serve Him must acknowledge His rule with absolute seriousness.

All Scripture verses taken from NIV