1. Eli's sons and Samuel (12-26)

Eli's sons were of a priestly family, but had no regard for the Lord. They used their position as servants of the Lord in order to serve themselves. Samuel, on the other hand, was growing up in the presence of the Lord and ministering before him. While Eli's sons refused instruction, Samuel grew in favor of the Lord.

2. I will raise up for myself a faithful priest (27-36)

The Lord spoke to Eli and rebuked him because by enabling his sons and their contempt, Eli did not honor God. God is just, and he spoke judgment on Eli's house saying, "Those who honor me I will honor." Being a priest is not a matter of family lineage, but of honoring God. Samuel shows us a glimpse, but Jesus is the faithful priest. Through him we know the heart and mind of God, and we can honor him today.