1 Samuel marks the transition of Israel from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. The book follows the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, revealing themes of leadership, obedience, and God’s sovereignty. It highlights how God raises up humble servants, opposes pride, and remains faithful even when His people are not.
Background
Author: Traditionally attributed to the prophet Samuel, with later additions by Nathan and Gad
Audience: Israel
Date: Events span roughly 1100–1010 BC; written later
Location Written: Israel
Context: Israel was spiritually unstable and lacked central leadership. God raised up Samuel as a prophet and judge to guide the nation. The people demanded a king, leading to Saul’s anointing and eventual failure due to disobedience. Meanwhile, God prepared David, a shepherd boy, to become Israel’s future king. The book contrasts human weakness with God’s faithful guidance and purpose.
Characters
- Samuel — prophet and judge who anoints both Saul and David
- Saul — Israel’s first king whose insecurity and disobedience lead to downfall
- David — young shepherd chosen by God to succeed Saul
- Hannah — Samuel’s mother whose prayer highlights faith and devotion
- Jonathan — Saul’s son and loyal friend to David
- Goliath — Philistine giant defeated by David
- Eli — priest who mentors Samuel but fails to restrain his sons
- Philistines — major enemies of Israel during this period
- God — sovereign ruler guiding, judging, and raising leaders
Major Events
- Hannah’s prayer and Samuel’s birth (Chapters 1–2)
- God calls Samuel into prophetic service (Chapter 3)
- Defeat by the Philistines and the capture of the Ark (Chapters 4–6)
- Israel demands a king; Saul is chosen and anointed (Chapters 8–10)
- Saul’s early victories followed by disobedience (Chapters 11–15)
- David is anointed as future king (Chapter 16)
- David defeats Goliath (Chapter 17)
- Saul’s jealousy and repeated attempts to kill David (Chapters 18–26)
- Death of Samuel (Chapter 25)
- Saul consults a medium at Endor (Chapter 28)
- Saul and Jonathan die in battle against the Philistines (Chapter 31)
Application & Life Lessons
- God looks at the heart, not outward appearance
- Obedience is better than sacrifice
- Pride and insecurity destroy leadership
- True friendship is marked by loyalty and sacrifice
- God raises up unlikely people to accomplish His will
- Waiting on God’s timing develops character and faith
- Spiritual compromise leads to downfall
- God remains faithful even when His people fail
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of 1 Samuel
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of 1 Samuel
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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