The book of 1 Samuel is one of great intrigue and interest. It details the rise of Israel’s first two kings – Saul and David. Here we will explore some of the key questions that often arise when studying this book:
Why was Israel demanding a king?
Up until this point, Israel had been led by judges appointed by God. However, in 1 Samuel 8 we see the elders of Israel approaching Samuel and demanding a king. Why this sudden desire for a monarchy? A few reasons are suggested:
– Samuel was aging and his sons were corrupt (1 Samuel 8:1-5). There was concern about succession.
– The surrounding nations had kings and Israel wanted to be like them (1 Samuel 8:19-20). A king represented strength and unity.
– They thought a king would lead them in battle more effectively than judges had (1 Samuel 8:20). Ongoing conflicts caused them to want a dedicated military leader.
– They seemed to forget that God was meant to be their true king. They were rejecting Him by wanting a human ruler (1 Samuel 8:7).
While their motives were questionable, God allowed them to have a king and began the monarchy through Saul.
Why was Saul’s reign ultimately a failure?
Saul started brightly, winning military victories (1 Samuel 13-14) and being confirmed as king (1 Samuel 10-11). However, his reign unraveled due to some key flaws:
– Disobedience to God. The most grievous incident being his unlawful sacrifice at Gilgal (1 Samuel 13:1-14).
– Jealousy and poor treatment of David. He turned against David, his loyal servant, due to paranoia about losing his throne (1 Samuel 18-31).
– Consulting spirits and witchcraft (1 Samuel 28:7-25). This showed his lack of faith in God.
– Murder of the priests at Nob (1 Samuel 22:6-23). His unjust massacre of the priests was outrageous.
– Constant pursuit of David. He wasted his latter years chasing David rather than governing Israel.
Saul failed to lead Israel in faithful obedience to God. He allowed jealousy, pride and vengeance to steer his reign off-course.
Why was David anointed king while Saul was still on the throne?
David is secretly anointed king by Samuel in 1 Samuel 16. Yet Saul remained king for some time after this. Why was the next king anointed before the death of the existing one?
A few possible reasons:
– God rejected Saul as king and was arranging his replacement (1 Samuel 15:23,28). The transition had begun.
– David needed time to grow in experience before becoming king. His trials toughened and prepared him.
– It established David’s right to the throne. Though taking some time, he was God’s intended next king.
– Providentially, David did not take the throne immediately. It avoided creating conflict with Saul early on.
Though unusual, the overlap allowed a gradual transfer between kings ordained by God. David’s early anointing launched his kingship long before being made official.
Why did God allow polygamy with David?
One of the troubling aspects of David’s story is his multiple wives. This seems contrary to Genesis 2 where one man and woman become “one flesh”. Why did God allow polygamy in David’s case?
Several points help provide context:
– Polygamy was culturally practiced and tolerated at that time, though not God’s ideal.
– God regulated but did not explicitly ban the practice, which was widespread.
– As a rising king, David took on marriages for political reasons to cement alliances.
– Nathan the prophet did not condemn David for polygamy, but for adultery with Bathsheba.
– Deuteronomy 17 lays out restrictions on kings having “many wives”. David far exceeded this.
While these points help explain the situation, David’s marriages after Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11) seem excessive and self-serving. Overall, scripture is clear that monogamy is God’s intent for marriage. God’s tolerance of polygamy was not equal to his approval.
Did God condone David’s lies and violence at Ziklag?
In 1 Samuel 27, David was living in Philistine territory in the city of Ziklag. When sent out on a raid with the Philistines, David actually attacked other towns and lied about his actions (1 Samuel 27:8-12). Did God approve this deception and brutality by David?
There are a few mitigating factors to consider:
– David likely saw these groups as enemies of Israel and struck them preemptively.
– His top priority was protecting his own people, not allegiance with the Philistines.
– David was continuing his fugitive lifestyle while being hunted by Saul.
However, the chapter portrays these events matter-of-factly without stating if God condoned this military endeavor. David’s decision to raid towns unprovoked and cover it up is difficult to justify. This highlights an ongoing tension – David was God’s chosen king, but imperfect and prone to poor choices. God nevertheless worked through him.
Why was Saul’s life spared initially?
When Saul is pursuing David in 1 Samuel 24, David has an opportunity to kill Saul but simply cuts off a corner of his robe instead. David then rebukes his men for convincing him to destroy Saul, God’s anointed king (1 Samuel 24:1-22). Why not kill Saul and remove the threat to himself?
A few reasons help explain David’s restraint:
– Despite their enmity, Saul was still the Lord’s anointed king. David respected God’s choice.
– David trusted God’s promise that he would become king. Killing Saul could jeopardize this.
– David wished to prevent bloodguilt and retaliation from Saul’s supporters.
– David hoped to convince Saul of his loyalty and end the pursuit.
While not comprehensive, these factors provide insight into David’s thinking. Ultimately, it was God’s prerogative when to end Saul’s reign. David was wise to let the matter rest in God’s hands.
Why did God allow David’s baby to die?
After David committed adultery with Bathsheba, the child she conceived became deathly ill. Despite David’s weeping and pleading, the baby dies (2 Samuel 12:15-23). This seems unnecessarily harsh, especially to punish David through the child. Why did God allow this to happen?
A few perspectives may help:
– The death served to sever David’s illicit relationship with Bathsheba. They could move forward in a right way.
– David had shown utter disdain for God in his actions. A consequence of this magnitude got through to David.
– Though tragic, infant mortality was much more common at that time.
– David ultimately accepts God’s judgment without bitterness. He rises, washes, worships and moves forward.
While a difficult passage, it reminds us that all sin bears consequences. David’s colossal sins irreparably changed lives, even that of an innocent. Yet God later blesses David and Bathsheba with Solomon.
Why did Nabal’s wife counter his actions?
In 1 Samuel 25, the wealthy Nabal insultingly rejects David’s request for food and provision. However, his wise wife Abigail intervenes. She provides for David’s men herself and pleads for their understanding of her foolish husband (1 Samuel 25:14-35). Why did she act directly against her husband’s wishes?
Several reasons help explain Abigail’s bold move:
– She knew David was soon to be king and wanted ongoing goodwill.
– She believed her husband’s rudeness deserved correction.
– She wished to prevent David from taking vengeful action.
– She saw it as protection for the household and servants.
Abigail proved wise in foreseeing the consequences of her husband’s folly. Her discreet intervention saved lives and reputation. Her brave action highlights that doing what is right sometimes requires creative courage.
Why did Saul visit the medium of Endor?
In 1 Samuel 28, Saul disguises himself and visits a medium to contact the spirit of Samuel, even though he had previously banned mediums. Why this appeal to witchcraft instead of God? A few reasons:
– Saul had rejected God and could not get answers.
– He was desperate for counsel against the Philistines.
– He likely sensed his death was near and had deep regret.
– He still recognized Samuel as God’s prophet and wanted final advice.
Though outwardly disobedient all his life, Saul inwardly knew turning to God was best. This sad episode shows the isolation of rejecting God’s way. Saul’s legacy is one of regret and loss.
Why does David order a deceitful, partial census?
In 2 Samuel 24, David orders a census against Joab’s advice. However, he only counts fighting men in Israel, not the whole nation. What motivated this deceitful act of pride?
A few potential factors:
– David succumbed to arrogance and wished to glorify his might.
– He drifted from God and stopped seeking His wisdom.
– He wanted data to plan additional military conquests.
– He trusted his own judgment rather than obeying the Law.
Though God blessed and established David’s reign, he was still prone to temptation and sin without total reliance on God. This act highlights that every person needs consistent humble obedience, no matter how mature.
What is the significance of Mephibosheth’s story?
Mephibosheth was the disabled grandson of Saul. After David takes the throne, he seeks out any descendants of Saul to show grace to for Jonathan’s sake (2 Samuel 9). What lessons does this story teach?
– It shows David keeping his covenant of friendship with Jonathan by loving his heirs.
– It displays God’s outrageous kindness and inclusion of the marginalized.
– It depicts David’s respect of Saul’s family despite their past conflict.
– It models intergenerational blessing and care for the disadvantaged.
Though tempted to eliminate Saul’s household, David honored his word. He welcomed Mephibosheth with open arms. This radical hospitality reflects our gracious God.
Summary of Key Themes in 1 Samuel
In closing, here are some key themes in 1 Samuel we can take away:
– God patiently works through human sin and failings to enact His will.
– True leadership requires wholehearted obedience to God.
– God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
– Trusting and waiting on God’s timing is crucial, even through trials.
– There are always consequences to sin, but God redeems when we repent.
Though a sobering book at times, 1 Samuel encourages us to pursue integrity, value God’s presence, and trust His sovereign plans, even amidst complications.
