“Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing”
Context:The book of Judges recounts the period of Israel’s history after they settled in the Promised Land. The Israelites went through cycles of apostasy, oppression, repentance, and deliverance. In Judges 13, the Israelites were under the oppression of the Philistines for forty years.
The Announcement of Samson’s Birth:Judges 13 begins by introducing a barren woman who received a visit from an angel of the Lord. The angel told her that she would conceive and bear a son, and she was instructed to follow specific instructions during her pregnancy and for the child’s upbringing.
The Prohibition of Wine and Strong Drink:In Judges 13:4, the angel instructed Samson’s mother not to drink wine or strong drink during her pregnancy. This prohibition was part of a Nazirite vow, a special consecration to God. Nazirites were called to abstain from certain things, including wine and strong drink (Numbers 6:1-4).
Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons:
- Separation and Consecration:The command to abstain from wine and strong drink symbolises the need for separation and consecration to God. Samson’s birth was unique, and God desired his life to be dedicated to His service from the moment of conception. It reminds us that God calls us to be set apart from worldly influences and consecrated for His purposes.
- Self-Control:The prohibition of wine and strong drink also highlights the importance of self-control. Alcohol has the potential to impair judgment and hinder one’s ability to serve God faithfully. The Nazirite vow taught Samson self-discipline and the need to exercise control over his desires.
- Symbolic of Christ:The Nazirite vow and the abstinence from wine find their fulfilment and symbolism in Jesus Christ. Jesus, the ultimate Nazirite, lived a life completely dedicated to God’s will and was without sin. He willingly abstained from earthly pleasures, symbolised by His refusal to drink wine mixed with gall on the cross (Matthew 27:34).
Application:
- Consecration:As believers, we are called to live lives consecrated to God. This means setting ourselves apart from sinful practices and dedicating ourselves to His service. Just as Samson was set apart for a specific purpose, we should seek to fulfil God’s plan for our lives.
- Self-Control:The command to avoid wine and strong drink reminds us of the importance of self-control. We should be mindful of our actions and ensure that we do not allow anything to hinder our walk with God or lead us astray.
- Christ-like Living:The abstinence from wine and strong drink symbolises the need for a Christ-centred life. We are to follow the example of Jesus, who lived a life of self-control and complete devotion to God. By imitating Christ’s character, we can grow in holiness and reflect His love to the world.
In conclusion, Judges 13:4 provides valuable lessons on consecration, self-control, and Christ-like living. It serves as a reminder that God desires our lives to be dedicated to His service, and we should strive to live in a manner that honours Him and reflects His character.
