We read of the sins of Eli’s sons in 1 Samuel 2:12-29.

v.12, “Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial (the devil); they knew not the Lord.” What a horrific indictment against Eli’s fatherhood.  It speaks volumes about his lack of child-training and discipline.

v. 13-14, They stole from the offerings which the people offered to the Lord and took by force that which was not lawfully their right to take.  This caused the people to abhor the offerings of the Lord.

v.29, They were accused of kicking at the sacrifices. This was an attitude of contempt for the holy things of God.

v. 22-25, “Now Eli was very old; and he heard everything his sons did to all Israel, and how they lay with the women who assembled at the door of the tabernacle of meeting. So he said to them, “Why do you do such things? For I hear of your evil dealings from all the people.” “No, my sons! For is not a good report that I hear. You make the Lord’s people transgress. If one man sins against another, God will judge him. But if a man sins against the Lord, who will intercede for him?”

Eli received many complaints from the people concerning his son’s evil behavior but it is not until he is “very old” that he final admonishes them. Why did he not warn them before this evil had grown to such proportions? The evil his sons did to all Israel obviously did not happen in a short period of time but more than likely over many years.

Eli’s warning to his sons should have been followed up with strong godly discipline. But now it is too late! 1 Samuel 2:25 tell us, “Nevertheless they did not heed the voice of their father, because the Lord desired to kill them.” There comes a point when God says enough is enough. If fathers will not do their job of disciplining their children, there could well come a time when God has to step in with very serious consequences.