In Judges, chapter fifteen, verse fourteen, empowerment from the Spirit in the Old Testament does not mean that God endorsed the person’s way of life, as an example with Balaam in Numbers twenty-four, verse two. The Spirit of the Lord is not equivalent to the filling of the Spirit recorded in the New Testament of Acts two, verses one through four. Indeed, there were many objectionable aspects to Samson’s lifestyle. However, Samson had a different approach when his mother and father died at the hand of the Philistines. They were the ones who raised him and wanted the best for their son as they were pleading with him to find a wife among the Israelites and not from the other cities.
Samson expresses his strength against the Philistines in chapter fifteen, verse eight. “And he smote them hip and thigh with a great slaughter: and he went down and dwelt in the top of the rock Etam.” Samson had a purpose now, and the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he was engaged in a battle against the Philistines. However, even though the son of Manoah was avenging what happened to his parents, he still did not inquire to the Lord regarding the matter. Still, once again, though, the Spirit of the Lord empowers Samson.
The men of Judah have negotiated a surrender, of sorts, from Samson as in Judges fifteen, nine through thirteen. After agreeing not to attack him, they tied his hands with brand-new, strong ropes. They have brought him up from his hideout to the place called Lehi. There, the Philistine army is waiting to take him into custody. After his arrest, he will receive execution in retribution for his attacks on their people. The Philistines are so eager to get their hands on Samson that they approach him with shouts. These might be taunts, cries of victory, or simple intimidation.