1 Samuel 4:22 - Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

The lesson of the ruin brought upon Churches by the covetousness and profligacy of their priests, which is here taught us so forcibly, and which has been again and again illustrated in Jews and Christians, is too solemn and important to be overlooked. When the glory of holiness departs from what should be a holy community, the glory of God’s presence has already departed, and the outward tokens of His protection may be expected to depart soon likewise. (Compare Ezekiel 10:18; Ezekiel 11:23; Revelation 2:5.) But though particular congregations may fall, our Lord’s promise will never fail his people Matthew 28:20.

1 Samuel 4:22

22 And she said, The glory is departed from Israel: for the ark of God is taken.