1 Samuel 17

1 Samuel 17:1

The Philistines Subdued

The enemy attacks when the offering is brought. At the same time, for this very reason, God intervenes and acts for the benefit of His people, who do not have to do anything themselves. The enemy does not know God’s thoughts about His Son. God appears in majesty when, in the picture of the burnt offering, the glory of the Lord Jesus is presented to Him and He sees His people in His Son.

The people may be quiet and see the salvation of the LORD, just as with the passage through the Red Sea (Exodus 14:13-14). The LORD acts with a mighty thunder for His people, an action of which Hannah prophesied (1 Samuel 2:10). His voice confuses the enemy. The victory is that of the LORD. He is to be honored for this, and not to the people.

The people may receive the results of the work God has done for them. “Beth-car” means “house of the lamb”. As far as below that place the enemy is struck down. It shows in the picture that victory extends as far as the power of the sacrifice of the lamb goes. In practical terms, this means that the enemy will be kept more and more at a distance if we learn to know Christ, from Whom this lamb speaks, better and better. There the peace of the house is found for which the lamb laid the foundation. In that house the lamb is the basis and in that house the lamb is central.

“Ebenezer” means “stone of help”. With this name Samuel indicates that they have experienced God’s help with every step they have taken in God’s way. This stone becomes a remembrance of the help of the LORD. The setting of the stone is like the testimony Paul gives for Agrippa: “So, having obtained help from God, I stand to this day” (Acts 26:22). This may also be our testimony every time we realize that with God’s help, we have again overcome difficulties on the way of faith.

The place where first the ark was captured by the Philistines and they defeated Israel (1 Samuel 5:1), is now the place of testimony for the LORD because He defeated the Philistines for them. The Philistines might think that a man in prayer is the same as a people who superstitiously bring the ark into the army. But Samuel is not Hophni and Pinehas. The faith of the man of God in the offering represents the people to God in the value of that offering. It is not an outward sign, but inner faith. With this God connects Himself and by virtue of this He delivers His people from their enemies.

There is probably no victory by Israel as special as this one. The LORD had humiliated them, nearly exterminated them. All trust in their own strength was gone. And now, through a wonderful intercession of Samuel, He exalts them, and humiliates the proud oppressors in the dust. God brings peoples and individuals to the extreme humiliation to show them His grace and mercy. He does so by a sudden deliverance from their destruction when all human help has clearly failed.

As long as Samuel is in power, the hand of the LORD is against the enemy. In picture this shows us that if we submit to God’s Word, the Lord will fight for us against the enemy, so that he will have no chance to harm us. And not only that. We also receive back certain spiritual blessings that we have lost through our unfaithfulness. This is what we see here in Israel. Israel is getting back lost territory.

That they make peace with the Amorites, however, is not a matter of faith. They have returned to God, but their works are unfortunately not perfect. An excuse that times have changed does not apply if God has determined a matter to be wrong (Deuteronomy 7:1-2).

1 Samuel 17:2

The Philistines Subdued

The enemy attacks when the offering is brought. At the same time, for this very reason, God intervenes and acts for the benefit of His people, who do not have to do anything themselves. The enemy does not know God’s thoughts about His Son. God appears in majesty when, in the picture of the burnt offering, the glory of the Lord Jesus is presented to Him and He sees His people in His Son.

The people may be quiet and see the salvation of the LORD, just as with the passage through the Red Sea (Exodus 14:13-14). The LORD acts with a mighty thunder for His people, an action of which Hannah prophesied (1 Samuel 2:10). His voice confuses the enemy. The victory is that of the LORD. He is to be honored for this, and not to the people.

The people may receive the results of the work God has done for them. “Beth-car” means “house of the lamb”. As far as below that place the enemy is struck down. It shows in the picture that victory extends as far as the power of the sacrifice of the lamb goes. In practical terms, this means that the enemy will be kept more and more at a distance if we learn to know Christ, from Whom this lamb speaks, better and better. There the peace of the house is found for which the lamb laid the foundation. In that house the lamb is the basis and in that house the lamb is central.

“Ebenezer” means “stone of help”. With this name Samuel indicates that they have experienced God’s help with every step they have taken in God’s way. This stone becomes a remembrance of the help of the LORD. The setting of the stone is like the testimony Paul gives for Agrippa: “So, having obtained help from God, I stand to this day” (Acts 26:22). This may also be our testimony every time we realize that with God’s help, we have again overcome difficulties on the way of faith.

The place where first the ark was captured by the Philistines and they defeated Israel (1 Samuel 5:1), is now the place of testimony for the LORD because He defeated the Philistines for them. The Philistines might think that a man in prayer is the same as a people who superstitiously bring the ark into the army. But Samuel is not Hophni and Pinehas. The faith of the man of God in the offering represents the people to God in the value of that offering. It is not an outward sign, but inner faith. With this God connects Himself and by virtue of this He delivers His people from their enemies.

There is probably no victory by Israel as special as this one. The LORD had humiliated them, nearly exterminated them. All trust in their own strength was gone. And now, through a wonderful intercession of Samuel, He exalts them, and humiliates the proud oppressors in the dust. God brings peoples and individuals to the extreme humiliation to show them His grace and mercy. He does so by a sudden deliverance from their destruction when all human help has clearly failed.

As long as Samuel is in power, the hand of the LORD is against the enemy. In picture this shows us that if we submit to God’s Word, the Lord will fight for us against the enemy, so that he will have no chance to harm us. And not only that. We also receive back certain spiritual blessings that we have lost through our unfaithfulness. This is what we see here in Israel. Israel is getting back lost territory.

That they make peace with the Amorites, however, is not a matter of faith. They have returned to God, but their works are unfortunately not perfect. An excuse that times have changed does not apply if God has determined a matter to be wrong (Deuteronomy 7:1-2).

1 Samuel 17:3

Samuel Judges Israel

Samuel is not characterized by sitting on a chair, as we read from Eli (1 Samuel 4:13). He works diligently and has no time to become fat like Eli. As a father of his people, he visits his children in different places. He teaches them for the good of their souls.

The four cities mentioned here are, as it were, the four stations in the life of the people of God. Our life also take place between these ‘stations’.

1. “Bethel” means ’house of God’. In this we recognize “the household of God, which is the church of the living God” (1 Timothy 3:15), in which we are. It is the house where God dwells and where we may dwell with Him (Ephesians 2:19). The awareness of His presence will sanctify our lives. His house is characterized by holiness. In Bethel Jacob met God (Genesis 28:10-19; Genesis 35:1-15). Do we know this truth and is it always in our minds? It is a truth which concerns all believers, all saints.

2. Gilgal” means ’rolled away’ (Joshua 5:9). Every year Samuel comes and preaches there. This shows us in picture that the people are told that they must constantly live in self-judgment. We must remain aware that “nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh” (Romans 7:18a). We put the meaning of ‘Gilgal’ into practice by rolling away the reproach of the world, which means that we give up every connection with it. It is our realizing that we have been judged in the judgment that has come on Christ: “in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ” (Colossians 2:11). There also the judgment of the world is carried out. This should be expressed in the prophetic service.

3. “Mizpa” means ’watchtower’ and suggests that after each decay God is gracious to make a new beginning. We must not remain standing by what has been removed, the flesh, otherwise we will slide back into its power. This is why Mizpa follows Gilgal. We must remain vigilant and sober, so that the enemy does not take us by surprise again. God offers a view – the function of a watchtower is to look forward – to a new beginning, a wonderful future. Mizpa teaches the believers to look forward to the coming of the Lord Jesus and to organize their lives accordingly.

4. “Rama” means ‘height’. Samuel does not travel there, but lives there. It shows that it is about living on the spiritual heights we have in the letter to the Ephesians. In practice, it means that we keep seeking “the things above” (Colossians 3:1). To this place of residence, we must come after our journey along the previous places. It leads to a separated, heavenly walk on earth, “for our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20).

In the place where he lives, he builds an altar. Samuel is also a real priest. He is not so busy with his service that he forgets his personal fellowship with God in worship and prayer and intercession. This spirit that works in the people of God can only be a blessing.

Service is important and necessary but is only fruitful if it comes from personal fellowship with God. Otherwise service in an activity of the flesh. In that case success is followed by pride and if success fails discouragement and abandonment will follow. It is to be desired that every servant of Christ has his ‘altar’ in connection with his work for God and His people.

1 Samuel 17:4

Samuel Judges Israel

Samuel is not characterized by sitting on a chair, as we read from Eli (1 Samuel 4:13). He works diligently and has no time to become fat like Eli. As a father of his people, he visits his children in different places. He teaches them for the good of their souls.

The four cities mentioned here are, as it were, the four stations in the life of the people of God. Our life also take place between these ‘stations’.

1. “Bethel” means ’house of God’. In this we recognize “the household of God, which is the church of the living God” (1 Timothy 3:15), in which we are. It is the house where God dwells and where we may dwell with Him (Ephesians 2:19). The awareness of His presence will sanctify our lives. His house is characterized by holiness. In Bethel Jacob met God (Genesis 28:10-19; Genesis 35:1-15). Do we know this truth and is it always in our minds? It is a truth which concerns all believers, all saints.

2. Gilgal” means ’rolled away’ (Joshua 5:9). Every year Samuel comes and preaches there. This shows us in picture that the people are told that they must constantly live in self-judgment. We must remain aware that “nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh” (Romans 7:18a). We put the meaning of ‘Gilgal’ into practice by rolling away the reproach of the world, which means that we give up every connection with it. It is our realizing that we have been judged in the judgment that has come on Christ: “in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ” (Colossians 2:11). There also the judgment of the world is carried out. This should be expressed in the prophetic service.

3. “Mizpa” means ’watchtower’ and suggests that after each decay God is gracious to make a new beginning. We must not remain standing by what has been removed, the flesh, otherwise we will slide back into its power. This is why Mizpa follows Gilgal. We must remain vigilant and sober, so that the enemy does not take us by surprise again. God offers a view – the function of a watchtower is to look forward – to a new beginning, a wonderful future. Mizpa teaches the believers to look forward to the coming of the Lord Jesus and to organize their lives accordingly.

4. “Rama” means ‘height’. Samuel does not travel there, but lives there. It shows that it is about living on the spiritual heights we have in the letter to the Ephesians. In practice, it means that we keep seeking “the things above” (Colossians 3:1). To this place of residence, we must come after our journey along the previous places. It leads to a separated, heavenly walk on earth, “for our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20).

In the place where he lives, he builds an altar. Samuel is also a real priest. He is not so busy with his service that he forgets his personal fellowship with God in worship and prayer and intercession. This spirit that works in the people of God can only be a blessing.

Service is important and necessary but is only fruitful if it comes from personal fellowship with God. Otherwise service in an activity of the flesh. In that case success is followed by pride and if success fails discouragement and abandonment will follow. It is to be desired that every servant of Christ has his ‘altar’ in connection with his work for God and His people.

1 Samuel 17:5

Samuel Judges Israel

Samuel is not characterized by sitting on a chair, as we read from Eli (1 Samuel 4:13). He works diligently and has no time to become fat like Eli. As a father of his people, he visits his children in different places. He teaches them for the good of their souls.

The four cities mentioned here are, as it were, the four stations in the life of the people of God. Our life also take place between these ‘stations’.

1. “Bethel” means ’house of God’. In this we recognize “the household of God, which is the church of the living God” (1 Timothy 3:15), in which we are. It is the house where God dwells and where we may dwell with Him (Ephesians 2:19). The awareness of His presence will sanctify our lives. His house is characterized by holiness. In Bethel Jacob met God (Genesis 28:10-19; Genesis 35:1-15). Do we know this truth and is it always in our minds? It is a truth which concerns all believers, all saints.

2. Gilgal” means ’rolled away’ (Joshua 5:9). Every year Samuel comes and preaches there. This shows us in picture that the people are told that they must constantly live in self-judgment. We must remain aware that “nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh” (Romans 7:18a). We put the meaning of ‘Gilgal’ into practice by rolling away the reproach of the world, which means that we give up every connection with it. It is our realizing that we have been judged in the judgment that has come on Christ: “in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ” (Colossians 2:11). There also the judgment of the world is carried out. This should be expressed in the prophetic service.

3. “Mizpa” means ’watchtower’ and suggests that after each decay God is gracious to make a new beginning. We must not remain standing by what has been removed, the flesh, otherwise we will slide back into its power. This is why Mizpa follows Gilgal. We must remain vigilant and sober, so that the enemy does not take us by surprise again. God offers a view – the function of a watchtower is to look forward – to a new beginning, a wonderful future. Mizpa teaches the believers to look forward to the coming of the Lord Jesus and to organize their lives accordingly.

4. “Rama” means ‘height’. Samuel does not travel there, but lives there. It shows that it is about living on the spiritual heights we have in the letter to the Ephesians. In practice, it means that we keep seeking “the things above” (Colossians 3:1). To this place of residence, we must come after our journey along the previous places. It leads to a separated, heavenly walk on earth, “for our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20).

In the place where he lives, he builds an altar. Samuel is also a real priest. He is not so busy with his service that he forgets his personal fellowship with God in worship and prayer and intercession. This spirit that works in the people of God can only be a blessing.

Service is important and necessary but is only fruitful if it comes from personal fellowship with God. Otherwise service in an activity of the flesh. In that case success is followed by pride and if success fails discouragement and abandonment will follow. It is to be desired that every servant of Christ has his ‘altar’ in connection with his work for God and His people.

1 Samuel 17:7

Introduction

Here begins a new phase in the book. After the priest Eli and the prophet Samuel, a new person comes on the stage: the king.

The Sons of Samuel

Samuel has appointed his sons judges and that is not right. Nowhere in Scripture does it appear that anyone becomes judge because his father is a judge. Someone does not become judge by succession. A judge is given by God. Samuel appoints his sons when he is old. With this appointment he will certainly have had the well-being of the people in mind. Yet his act is an independent one. Is God not able, just as He once did with Moses, to support him in his old age for his task, until God Himself has appointed a successor? We see Samuel act several times later. His age is therefore not such that he is incapable of serving and that therefore immediate follow-up seems necessary.

Our concern for the future of God’s people can also easily lead us to wrong acting. Maybe, however well-meaning we may be, we want to arrange things in the church according to our insight. However, our arrangement ensures that for the next generation we will eliminate the trust in the Lord. The hand of the creature does not need to reach out to prevent the ark from falling (2 Samuel 6:6-7), for God is mighty to take care of that himself.

“Joel” means ’the LORD is God’ and “Abiah” means ’my father is the LORD’. These names show what Samuel and his wife wanted for these sons. They hoped that their lives would bear witness to what their name means. It is possible that Samuel had this in mind when he appointed his two sons judges in Berseba to judge there.

Berseba is situated in the south (1 Samuel 3:20), far away from the places where he exercises his service as judge and prophet. This means that they are judge in a limited area and not over the whole people. Most Israelites have nothing to do with them at all. Normally the behavior of Samuel’s sons would not interest them either, but now they can use it to motivate their own carnal desires.

It seems Samuel has overlooked the fact that the office of judge is not an office that can be transferred from father to son. Something else seems to have escaped Samuel’s attention and that is that his sons cannot cope with this task. He does not see the faults of his sons, while the people have an eye for it. In it he is reminiscent of Eli and his sons.

We should not compare Samuel’s mistakes with the mistakes Eli made with his two sons. Because of what Eli did, the priesthood failed completely. However, this does not alter the fact that the prophet Samuel also makes such a mistake. He too does not see the mistakes of his sons. There is always the danger that we will easily perceive the mistakes of others, while equally easily overlooking the mistakes of our own children.

We may wonder why such a God-fearing father has such bad sons. Could that be because of his many trips and therefore his long absence? God’s Word does not express itself about it. We find more often, both in Scripture and in daily life, that God-fearing parents have children who do not follow in the footsteps of their parents’ faith. It is not always clear why. In any case, let us be cautious in criticizing the education.

The sins of Samuel’s sons are threefold. 1. They turn aside after dishonest gain. God’s Word warns those who care for God’s people not to seek financial gain (1 Peter 5:2). 2. They take bribes. As a result, their jurisdiction does not become a fair one. The best-paying or most bidding person is right. 3. As a result of the two preceding points, they pervert justice. By this practice they show the features of a wicked man (Proverbs 17:23; Exodus 23:6; 8; Deuteronomy 16:18-20).

1 Samuel 17:8

Introduction

Here begins a new phase in the book. After the priest Eli and the prophet Samuel, a new person comes on the stage: the king.

The Sons of Samuel

Samuel has appointed his sons judges and that is not right. Nowhere in Scripture does it appear that anyone becomes judge because his father is a judge. Someone does not become judge by succession. A judge is given by God. Samuel appoints his sons when he is old. With this appointment he will certainly have had the well-being of the people in mind. Yet his act is an independent one. Is God not able, just as He once did with Moses, to support him in his old age for his task, until God Himself has appointed a successor? We see Samuel act several times later. His age is therefore not such that he is incapable of serving and that therefore immediate follow-up seems necessary.

Our concern for the future of God’s people can also easily lead us to wrong acting. Maybe, however well-meaning we may be, we want to arrange things in the church according to our insight. However, our arrangement ensures that for the next generation we will eliminate the trust in the Lord. The hand of the creature does not need to reach out to prevent the ark from falling (2 Samuel 6:6-7), for God is mighty to take care of that himself.

“Joel” means ’the LORD is God’ and “Abiah” means ’my father is the LORD’. These names show what Samuel and his wife wanted for these sons. They hoped that their lives would bear witness to what their name means. It is possible that Samuel had this in mind when he appointed his two sons judges in Berseba to judge there.

Berseba is situated in the south (1 Samuel 3:20), far away from the places where he exercises his service as judge and prophet. This means that they are judge in a limited area and not over the whole people. Most Israelites have nothing to do with them at all. Normally the behavior of Samuel’s sons would not interest them either, but now they can use it to motivate their own carnal desires.

It seems Samuel has overlooked the fact that the office of judge is not an office that can be transferred from father to son. Something else seems to have escaped Samuel’s attention and that is that his sons cannot cope with this task. He does not see the faults of his sons, while the people have an eye for it. In it he is reminiscent of Eli and his sons.

We should not compare Samuel’s mistakes with the mistakes Eli made with his two sons. Because of what Eli did, the priesthood failed completely. However, this does not alter the fact that the prophet Samuel also makes such a mistake. He too does not see the mistakes of his sons. There is always the danger that we will easily perceive the mistakes of others, while equally easily overlooking the mistakes of our own children.

We may wonder why such a God-fearing father has such bad sons. Could that be because of his many trips and therefore his long absence? God’s Word does not express itself about it. We find more often, both in Scripture and in daily life, that God-fearing parents have children who do not follow in the footsteps of their parents’ faith. It is not always clear why. In any case, let us be cautious in criticizing the education.

The sins of Samuel’s sons are threefold. 1. They turn aside after dishonest gain. God’s Word warns those who care for God’s people not to seek financial gain (1 Peter 5:2). 2. They take bribes. As a result, their jurisdiction does not become a fair one. The best-paying or most bidding person is right. 3. As a result of the two preceding points, they pervert justice. By this practice they show the features of a wicked man (Proverbs 17:23; Exodus 23:6; 8; Deuteronomy 16:18-20).

1 Samuel 17:9

Introduction

Here begins a new phase in the book. After the priest Eli and the prophet Samuel, a new person comes on the stage: the king.

The Sons of Samuel

Samuel has appointed his sons judges and that is not right. Nowhere in Scripture does it appear that anyone becomes judge because his father is a judge. Someone does not become judge by succession. A judge is given by God. Samuel appoints his sons when he is old. With this appointment he will certainly have had the well-being of the people in mind. Yet his act is an independent one. Is God not able, just as He once did with Moses, to support him in his old age for his task, until God Himself has appointed a successor? We see Samuel act several times later. His age is therefore not such that he is incapable of serving and that therefore immediate follow-up seems necessary.

Our concern for the future of God’s people can also easily lead us to wrong acting. Maybe, however well-meaning we may be, we want to arrange things in the church according to our insight. However, our arrangement ensures that for the next generation we will eliminate the trust in the Lord. The hand of the creature does not need to reach out to prevent the ark from falling (2 Samuel 6:6-7), for God is mighty to take care of that himself.

“Joel” means ’the LORD is God’ and “Abiah” means ’my father is the LORD’. These names show what Samuel and his wife wanted for these sons. They hoped that their lives would bear witness to what their name means. It is possible that Samuel had this in mind when he appointed his two sons judges in Berseba to judge there.

Berseba is situated in the south (1 Samuel 3:20), far away from the places where he exercises his service as judge and prophet. This means that they are judge in a limited area and not over the whole people. Most Israelites have nothing to do with them at all. Normally the behavior of Samuel’s sons would not interest them either, but now they can use it to motivate their own carnal desires.

It seems Samuel has overlooked the fact that the office of judge is not an office that can be transferred from father to son. Something else seems to have escaped Samuel’s attention and that is that his sons cannot cope with this task. He does not see the faults of his sons, while the people have an eye for it. In it he is reminiscent of Eli and his sons.

We should not compare Samuel’s mistakes with the mistakes Eli made with his two sons. Because of what Eli did, the priesthood failed completely. However, this does not alter the fact that the prophet Samuel also makes such a mistake. He too does not see the mistakes of his sons. There is always the danger that we will easily perceive the mistakes of others, while equally easily overlooking the mistakes of our own children.

We may wonder why such a God-fearing father has such bad sons. Could that be because of his many trips and therefore his long absence? God’s Word does not express itself about it. We find more often, both in Scripture and in daily life, that God-fearing parents have children who do not follow in the footsteps of their parents’ faith. It is not always clear why. In any case, let us be cautious in criticizing the education.

The sins of Samuel’s sons are threefold. 1. They turn aside after dishonest gain. God’s Word warns those who care for God’s people not to seek financial gain (1 Peter 5:2). 2. They take bribes. As a result, their jurisdiction does not become a fair one. The best-paying or most bidding person is right. 3. As a result of the two preceding points, they pervert justice. By this practice they show the features of a wicked man (Proverbs 17:23; Exodus 23:6; 8; Deuteronomy 16:18-20).

1 Samuel 17:10

The People Want a King

The desire to have a king is expressed by “all the elders of Israel”. The leaders, the fathers of the people, lead the people. Wisdom is not always to be found with the older, as Elihu says: “The abundant [in years] may not be wise, nor may elders understand justice” (Job 32:9). It is a general wish. In the wickedness of Samuel’s sons, the people found an excuse to desire a king. To give a reason for their desire for a king, the people misused Samuel’s mistake in the appraisal of his sons. It is proof that they are blind to their own failure and to the fact that a king will not do better. In 1 Samuel 8:7 the LORD says what the real reason is, and this is that they no longer want to listen to Him.

This is also the real reason for introducing all kinds of offices into professing Christianity. Religious man wants visible dominion. The invisible guidance of the Holy Spirit does not meet the wishes of man. Man must be able to point to a qualified pastor or a pope with his staff. The church must learn from business. The church has become a business that has to be run. There is a product that needs to be sold.

Things must be recognizable to all people, to believers and unbelievers. The unseen God is too far away and must be brought closer, made tangible, perceptible to man’s senses. You must be able to smell, hear, see, and experience Him.

The elders substantiate their request for a king with two arguments. The first is that Samuel is old, and the second is that his sons are bad. If these were real arguments, they should have complained earlier about Eli’s age, who was much older, and about the behavior of his sons, who were much worse. We do not hear that they have ever complained about that. Therefore, these are worthless reasons. If you want something, you will always find a reason.

It has been calculated that Samuel must have been here between sixty and seventy years old. Then you are at an advanced age, but not really old. There is no evidence that he became forgetful or began to show other signs of old age. He was still powerful. This becomes clear when he later hews Agag with the sword to pieces (1 Samuel 15:33). There is a third reason why the people want a king. That will come to light later (1 Samuel 12:12).

The desire to have a king is not wrong in itself. God wants to give His people a king, they may even ask for it (Deuteronomy 17:14-20). But the people want one according to their own taste, to be able to compete with the nations. They do not want a king who reveals to them the will of God and rules according to His will. Nor do they want to wait for God’s time and God’s choice. They want a king and they want him now. Therefore their question here is wrong and not according to God’s will. It is not only about what one asks, but with what intension and in what mind. They want something visible, something for which they can prostrate.

Their desire stems from what they see in the nations around them. They want to be “just like all the nations”. The nations have a king, so they also want a king. This word must have been particularly painful for the LORD because He separated them from all other nations to be His people, a people that proclaims His excellencies. It is their fame that they are not like the other nations (Numbers 23:9).

1 Samuel 17:11

The People Want a King

The desire to have a king is expressed by “all the elders of Israel”. The leaders, the fathers of the people, lead the people. Wisdom is not always to be found with the older, as Elihu says: “The abundant [in years] may not be wise, nor may elders understand justice” (Job 32:9). It is a general wish. In the wickedness of Samuel’s sons, the people found an excuse to desire a king. To give a reason for their desire for a king, the people misused Samuel’s mistake in the appraisal of his sons. It is proof that they are blind to their own failure and to the fact that a king will not do better. In 1 Samuel 8:7 the LORD says what the real reason is, and this is that they no longer want to listen to Him.

This is also the real reason for introducing all kinds of offices into professing Christianity. Religious man wants visible dominion. The invisible guidance of the Holy Spirit does not meet the wishes of man. Man must be able to point to a qualified pastor or a pope with his staff. The church must learn from business. The church has become a business that has to be run. There is a product that needs to be sold.

Things must be recognizable to all people, to believers and unbelievers. The unseen God is too far away and must be brought closer, made tangible, perceptible to man’s senses. You must be able to smell, hear, see, and experience Him.

The elders substantiate their request for a king with two arguments. The first is that Samuel is old, and the second is that his sons are bad. If these were real arguments, they should have complained earlier about Eli’s age, who was much older, and about the behavior of his sons, who were much worse. We do not hear that they have ever complained about that. Therefore, these are worthless reasons. If you want something, you will always find a reason.

It has been calculated that Samuel must have been here between sixty and seventy years old. Then you are at an advanced age, but not really old. There is no evidence that he became forgetful or began to show other signs of old age. He was still powerful. This becomes clear when he later hews Agag with the sword to pieces (1 Samuel 15:33). There is a third reason why the people want a king. That will come to light later (1 Samuel 12:12).

The desire to have a king is not wrong in itself. God wants to give His people a king, they may even ask for it (Deuteronomy 17:14-20). But the people want one according to their own taste, to be able to compete with the nations. They do not want a king who reveals to them the will of God and rules according to His will. Nor do they want to wait for God’s time and God’s choice. They want a king and they want him now. Therefore their question here is wrong and not according to God’s will. It is not only about what one asks, but with what intension and in what mind. They want something visible, something for which they can prostrate.

Their desire stems from what they see in the nations around them. They want to be “just like all the nations”. The nations have a king, so they also want a king. This word must have been particularly painful for the LORD because He separated them from all other nations to be His people, a people that proclaims His excellencies. It is their fame that they are not like the other nations (Numbers 23:9).

1 Samuel 17:12

Samuel Must Listen to the People

The LORD’s answer in 1 Samuel 8:7 gives reason to think that Samuel’s personal feelings have been hurt and that he does not like the people’s request. Yet that is only a guess. If there is any hurt at all, Samuel does not let himself be led by it. He brings these things to the LORD. Samuel’s reaction is prayer. This may be the reaction for every disappointment that can happen to someone in life. He is the spiritual leader and is put aside, but he does not complain or sue the people – unlike Elijah (Romans 11:2b).

He does not feel offended either. A man with his spirit and mind can bear this. He has never sought himself. He has not claimed his position either. It is the position the LORD has given him. He did not suddenly appear as a prophet but grew in this position. Everyone has been able to observe his whole life. He also did not use the death of Eli and his sons to become the leader of the people. He has always waited for God’s time and God’s command. That the people reject this man is not to be excused.

The LORD soothes Samuel’s displeased feelings by reminding him of the people’s continued ingratitude to Him Himself. God therefore tells Samuel that by asking for a king like all nations, the people in fact reject Him as their King. God is wronged more by His people than they wrong Samuel. This answer of the LORD is also an encouragement to Samuel in case he should wonder if they reject him because he failed in some way. The spiritual minded person will first examine himself in such situations.

Samuel must listen to the voice of the people. He must show them what they ask, although they do not ask in accordance with God’s will. They need to learn what it is like to have a king to their own taste. Only when they have experienced this, God gives them the king to His heart. In the book of Hosea God comes back to their request here. There we hear that God has given them a king in His anger (Hosea 13:10-11).

Listening to the voice of the people is democracy. We find this in politics and in the church. Nothing is more unclear and fickler than the will of the people (cf. Acts 19:32; Luke 23:23). If man absolutely wants something, God sometimes gives what he demands (Psalms 106:15; Psalms 78:26-31). Sometimes God withholds something in His love and sometimes He gives us something in His anger.

God tells how the people constantly rejected Him. Samuel is now gaining the same experience. The rebellion of the people has also proved itself in more than one occasion toward Moses and Aaron. The desire to have a king is the lowest point of centuries of dissatisfaction with the place where grace has brought them. In His grace God connects Samuel to Himself and lets him share in the reproach that the people have done to Him over and over again (cf. Matthew 10:24; John 15:18; 20). Paul longed for such conformity to Christ (Philippians 3:10-11).

1 Samuel 17:13

Samuel Must Listen to the People

The LORD’s answer in 1 Samuel 8:7 gives reason to think that Samuel’s personal feelings have been hurt and that he does not like the people’s request. Yet that is only a guess. If there is any hurt at all, Samuel does not let himself be led by it. He brings these things to the LORD. Samuel’s reaction is prayer. This may be the reaction for every disappointment that can happen to someone in life. He is the spiritual leader and is put aside, but he does not complain or sue the people – unlike Elijah (Romans 11:2b).

He does not feel offended either. A man with his spirit and mind can bear this. He has never sought himself. He has not claimed his position either. It is the position the LORD has given him. He did not suddenly appear as a prophet but grew in this position. Everyone has been able to observe his whole life. He also did not use the death of Eli and his sons to become the leader of the people. He has always waited for God’s time and God’s command. That the people reject this man is not to be excused.

The LORD soothes Samuel’s displeased feelings by reminding him of the people’s continued ingratitude to Him Himself. God therefore tells Samuel that by asking for a king like all nations, the people in fact reject Him as their King. God is wronged more by His people than they wrong Samuel. This answer of the LORD is also an encouragement to Samuel in case he should wonder if they reject him because he failed in some way. The spiritual minded person will first examine himself in such situations.

Samuel must listen to the voice of the people. He must show them what they ask, although they do not ask in accordance with God’s will. They need to learn what it is like to have a king to their own taste. Only when they have experienced this, God gives them the king to His heart. In the book of Hosea God comes back to their request here. There we hear that God has given them a king in His anger (Hosea 13:10-11).

Listening to the voice of the people is democracy. We find this in politics and in the church. Nothing is more unclear and fickler than the will of the people (cf. Acts 19:32; Luke 23:23). If man absolutely wants something, God sometimes gives what he demands (Psalms 106:15; Psalms 78:26-31). Sometimes God withholds something in His love and sometimes He gives us something in His anger.

God tells how the people constantly rejected Him. Samuel is now gaining the same experience. The rebellion of the people has also proved itself in more than one occasion toward Moses and Aaron. The desire to have a king is the lowest point of centuries of dissatisfaction with the place where grace has brought them. In His grace God connects Samuel to Himself and lets him share in the reproach that the people have done to Him over and over again (cf. Matthew 10:24; John 15:18; 20). Paul longed for such conformity to Christ (Philippians 3:10-11).

1 Samuel 17:14

Samuel Must Listen to the People

The LORD’s answer in 1 Samuel 8:7 gives reason to think that Samuel’s personal feelings have been hurt and that he does not like the people’s request. Yet that is only a guess. If there is any hurt at all, Samuel does not let himself be led by it. He brings these things to the LORD. Samuel’s reaction is prayer. This may be the reaction for every disappointment that can happen to someone in life. He is the spiritual leader and is put aside, but he does not complain or sue the people – unlike Elijah (Romans 11:2b).

He does not feel offended either. A man with his spirit and mind can bear this. He has never sought himself. He has not claimed his position either. It is the position the LORD has given him. He did not suddenly appear as a prophet but grew in this position. Everyone has been able to observe his whole life. He also did not use the death of Eli and his sons to become the leader of the people. He has always waited for God’s time and God’s command. That the people reject this man is not to be excused.

The LORD soothes Samuel’s displeased feelings by reminding him of the people’s continued ingratitude to Him Himself. God therefore tells Samuel that by asking for a king like all nations, the people in fact reject Him as their King. God is wronged more by His people than they wrong Samuel. This answer of the LORD is also an encouragement to Samuel in case he should wonder if they reject him because he failed in some way. The spiritual minded person will first examine himself in such situations.

Samuel must listen to the voice of the people. He must show them what they ask, although they do not ask in accordance with God’s will. They need to learn what it is like to have a king to their own taste. Only when they have experienced this, God gives them the king to His heart. In the book of Hosea God comes back to their request here. There we hear that God has given them a king in His anger (Hosea 13:10-11).

Listening to the voice of the people is democracy. We find this in politics and in the church. Nothing is more unclear and fickler than the will of the people (cf. Acts 19:32; Luke 23:23). If man absolutely wants something, God sometimes gives what he demands (Psalms 106:15; Psalms 78:26-31). Sometimes God withholds something in His love and sometimes He gives us something in His anger.

God tells how the people constantly rejected Him. Samuel is now gaining the same experience. The rebellion of the people has also proved itself in more than one occasion toward Moses and Aaron. The desire to have a king is the lowest point of centuries of dissatisfaction with the place where grace has brought them. In His grace God connects Samuel to Himself and lets him share in the reproach that the people have done to Him over and over again (cf. Matthew 10:24; John 15:18; 20). Paul longed for such conformity to Christ (Philippians 3:10-11).

1 Samuel 17:15

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:16

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:17

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:18

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:19

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:20

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:21

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:22

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:23

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:24

The Conduct of the King

God wants Samuel to present to the people the full responsibility of what they desire. He did the same at the Sinai, when the people said they would do everything He would ask. In response He has given His people the law. As a faithful and obedient prophet Samuel transmits all the words of the LORD to the people. He proposes to the people, what the king they desire, will ask of them, what they will have to give to him. How else could the splendor of the kingship they desire be preserved? In the days of Israel’s greatest prosperity, the burdens become unbearable, so that we hear them say to Solomon’s son: “Your father made our yoke hard” (1 Kings 12:4).

Their king will ask all of them, he will take from them. They will lose their personal freedom and will no longer possess their goods or their children. Taking the fields and so on means that he will claim the income from them. The land remains in the possession of the inhabitants. We see that as Ahab wants to have the vineyard of Naboth (1 Kings 21:2-3). Their sons and daughters will serve him. All kinds of burdens will be imposed on the people. They will only have duties and no rights. And what will the first king do with all that the people had to give him? He uses everything against the man to God’s heart. Saul is anything but the king God wants to give.

Six- or seven-times Samuel tells them that their king will “take”. This is a great contrast to Gods king, who will give them everything for their well-being. When the Lord Jesus has satiated a crowd, it is not surprising that they want to make Him king (John 6:15a). This is a blessing for man after centuries of living under royal greed and oppression. In Christ he found Someone Who does not take but gives. However, Christ does not want to receive the kingship from the hands of men or from the hand of satan. He takes it only from the hand of God. When that moment comes, the longtime of prosperity and peace will begin.

Samuel also tells them how they will wail over their king. Not much later they will say that they have sinned by coveting a king (1 Samuel 12:19). Then it is too late, and they must continue with the king they have coveted. In professing Christianity it has been the same. They have chosen themselves leaders, people who speak what they like to hear. With this, God has been put aside, that He will not have the say. This choice will find its lowest point in the antichrist. Saul is a picture of the antichrist who persecutes the man of God, David.

God gives leaders in the church (Hebrews 13:7; 17). We must acknowledge them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13) and be grateful for them. Whoever raises himself up to this task or functions according to human choice will in many cases be a plague for God’s people. The pope is such a leader, but also many humanly appointed leaders. God can give a certain blessing through such people, for example as a dam against evil. Yet that is no justification whatsoever for the position of these people.

Professing Christianity is not satisfied with the invisible guidance of God through the Holy Spirit. God can bless through things that contradict Him. It is sad that the prophet Samuel is being replaced by Saul because of the choice of the people. Do we want only those leaders who have been given to us by God or do we make leaders ourselves?

1 Samuel 17:25

The People Stick to Their Choice

The people stick to their choice and express themselves more strongly. What started with a request (1 Samuel 8:5) has now become a demand. They feel safer toward a visible enemy with a visible leader than with an invisible leader. Saul has not been able to work this safety. He himself becomes a victim of the enemy he must fight. No judge has ever been killed in the fight against the enemy he has to fight.

1 Samuel 17:26

The People Stick to Their Choice

The people stick to their choice and express themselves more strongly. What started with a request (1 Samuel 8:5) has now become a demand. They feel safer toward a visible enemy with a visible leader than with an invisible leader. Saul has not been able to work this safety. He himself becomes a victim of the enemy he must fight. No judge has ever been killed in the fight against the enemy he has to fight.

1 Samuel 17:27

The Choice of the People Is Confirmed

Samuel goes again with everything he hears from the people to the LORD. Later Hezekiah does something similar with the letter of threat from the king of Assyria, when he spreads it out before Him (Isaiah 37:14). Samuel does not speak like Moses of “rebels” (Numbers 20:10) but remains gentle.

The LORD answers Samuel for the third time that he must listen to the people (1 Samuel 8:7; 9; 22). It seems to indicate that Samuel has great difficulty to do the will of the people. Samuel then sends the people home without a word of accusation. The matter has been settled so far that Samuel is from now on waiting for the LORD.

1 Samuel 17:28

The Choice of the People Is Confirmed

Samuel goes again with everything he hears from the people to the LORD. Later Hezekiah does something similar with the letter of threat from the king of Assyria, when he spreads it out before Him (Isaiah 37:14). Samuel does not speak like Moses of “rebels” (Numbers 20:10) but remains gentle.

The LORD answers Samuel for the third time that he must listen to the people (1 Samuel 8:7; 9; 22). It seems to indicate that Samuel has great difficulty to do the will of the people. Samuel then sends the people home without a word of accusation. The matter has been settled so far that Samuel is from now on waiting for the LORD.

1 Samuel 17:30

Saul, His Origin and His Stature

Saul comes from the tribe of Benjamin. From this tribe also comes the New Testament Saul or Paul (Philippians 3:5). They bear the same name but are further in many things the opposite of each other. The first Saul is the choice of the people, the second Saul is God’s choice. The name Benjamin means ‘son of my right hand’. The exercise of judgment is associated with that name (Genesis 49:27). Benjamin is by birth from the same mother connected to Joseph, the suffering son. However, Saul does not know about Joseph. Like a hard Benjamite he only knows judgment.

Saul’s ancestry is given in five generations. “Saul” means ‘asked’ or ‘coveted ‘. He represents the desire of the people for a king and is the ideal of it. “Kish” means ‘entangling’, this is what the nature of a human being does. “Abiel” means ‘my father is God’, this is a confession, which in the case of Saul is only a lip confession.

His origin is impressive. His father is a mighty man of valor. Saul himself also makes great impression: young, handsome, strong. God’s Spirit notes that no one among the Israelites is more handsome than he. God knows exactly what corresponds to the taste of the people. If there had been other candidates and an election had been held, the whole people would have elected him.

In his work, we also see non-external characteristics come forward at the beginning of his performance, which appear sympathetic to the human eye. Thus he speaks modestly and there is affection for his father. His father also cares about him, as appears from 1 Samuel 9:5. It shows that the family relationship is good. We also see that he treats his servant with respect.

If we compare Saul with Samuel and we do so with the eyes of the people, we can conclude that Saul is the right choice. The appearance of Samuel will have stood out meagerly against the great stature of Saul. Nor are the relationships in Samuel’s family the same as they seem to be at Saul’s home. Samuel is old, at least in the eyes of the people, and Saul is young. For those who only look at the appearance, there is no need to think long about whom they will choose. In the whole appearance of Saul there is everything that meets the taste of man.

Let us not be too harsh on the people. If we are honest, it is often difficult for us not to look at people. Even Samuel falls a little later in that error and must be corrected by the LORD (1 Samuel 16:6-7).

1 Samuel 17:31

Saul, His Origin and His Stature

Saul comes from the tribe of Benjamin. From this tribe also comes the New Testament Saul or Paul (Philippians 3:5). They bear the same name but are further in many things the opposite of each other. The first Saul is the choice of the people, the second Saul is God’s choice. The name Benjamin means ‘son of my right hand’. The exercise of judgment is associated with that name (Genesis 49:27). Benjamin is by birth from the same mother connected to Joseph, the suffering son. However, Saul does not know about Joseph. Like a hard Benjamite he only knows judgment.

Saul’s ancestry is given in five generations. “Saul” means ‘asked’ or ‘coveted ‘. He represents the desire of the people for a king and is the ideal of it. “Kish” means ‘entangling’, this is what the nature of a human being does. “Abiel” means ‘my father is God’, this is a confession, which in the case of Saul is only a lip confession.

His origin is impressive. His father is a mighty man of valor. Saul himself also makes great impression: young, handsome, strong. God’s Spirit notes that no one among the Israelites is more handsome than he. God knows exactly what corresponds to the taste of the people. If there had been other candidates and an election had been held, the whole people would have elected him.

In his work, we also see non-external characteristics come forward at the beginning of his performance, which appear sympathetic to the human eye. Thus he speaks modestly and there is affection for his father. His father also cares about him, as appears from 1 Samuel 9:5. It shows that the family relationship is good. We also see that he treats his servant with respect.

If we compare Saul with Samuel and we do so with the eyes of the people, we can conclude that Saul is the right choice. The appearance of Samuel will have stood out meagerly against the great stature of Saul. Nor are the relationships in Samuel’s family the same as they seem to be at Saul’s home. Samuel is old, at least in the eyes of the people, and Saul is young. For those who only look at the appearance, there is no need to think long about whom they will choose. In the whole appearance of Saul there is everything that meets the taste of man.

Let us not be too harsh on the people. If we are honest, it is often difficult for us not to look at people. Even Samuel falls a little later in that error and must be corrected by the LORD (1 Samuel 16:6-7).

1 Samuel 17:32

Saul Seeks Donkeys

The history of Saul begins with donkeys. Later we see that David’s history starts with sheep. Saul does not pasture the donkeys; he has lost them, and he cannot find them after his search. David goes after the lost sheep, finds it, and brings it back. He also delivers it from the mouth of the lion and the bear at the risk of his own life. Here we immediately see the distinction between the ruler according to the wishes of man and the one according to God’s heart.

The donkey is an unclean animal. A person is compared with an unclean donkey (Exodus 13:13). Man and donkey are on the same level (cf. Job 11:12). Man is a wild donkey that has run away from God. Who could think that a search for lost donkeys would bring Saul into connection with Samuel, yes, with the throne of Israel?

1 Samuel 17:33

Saul Seeks Donkeys

The history of Saul begins with donkeys. Later we see that David’s history starts with sheep. Saul does not pasture the donkeys; he has lost them, and he cannot find them after his search. David goes after the lost sheep, finds it, and brings it back. He also delivers it from the mouth of the lion and the bear at the risk of his own life. Here we immediately see the distinction between the ruler according to the wishes of man and the one according to God’s heart.

The donkey is an unclean animal. A person is compared with an unclean donkey (Exodus 13:13). Man and donkey are on the same level (cf. Job 11:12). Man is a wild donkey that has run away from God. Who could think that a search for lost donkeys would bring Saul into connection with Samuel, yes, with the throne of Israel?

1 Samuel 17:34

Saul Seeks Donkeys

The history of Saul begins with donkeys. Later we see that David’s history starts with sheep. Saul does not pasture the donkeys; he has lost them, and he cannot find them after his search. David goes after the lost sheep, finds it, and brings it back. He also delivers it from the mouth of the lion and the bear at the risk of his own life. Here we immediately see the distinction between the ruler according to the wishes of man and the one according to God’s heart.

The donkey is an unclean animal. A person is compared with an unclean donkey (Exodus 13:13). Man and donkey are on the same level (cf. Job 11:12). Man is a wild donkey that has run away from God. Who could think that a search for lost donkeys would bring Saul into connection with Samuel, yes, with the throne of Israel?

1 Samuel 17:35

Suggestion to Ask Samuel for Advice

This chapter is full of details about Saul. In his long and fruitless search, the Holy Spirit shows what kind of a man Saul is. He is a man full of inability, but also full of unfamiliarity with the things of God. Not Saul, but his servant noticed that they are near a man of God and suggests the idea of visiting him. The servant takes the initiative. He knows of the man of God and gives a good testimony of him, of his honor among the people and of the trustworthiness of his words. Samuel is really a “letter, … known and read by all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2), but apparently not by Saul.

Saul does not seem to know about Samuel’s existence. That sheds a questionable light on his mindset. It seems that he has never heard of Samuel, or at least has shown no interest at all. Saul does not know the generally known prophet, although Samuel lives not far from him, about forty kilometers.

On all his tours Samuel never visited the estate of Saul’s father and never enjoyed hospitality there. Saul will not have left the farm for the first time but will have had contacts somewhere more often. The subject of conversation may have been Samuel. His servant knows quite a bit about it. But in the whole history of Saul we see nowhere that he has a personal relationship with the LORD.

Saul also depends on his servant to work out the suggestion, while he should lead his servant. He does not lead but is led. He believes that a service of the prophet of God should be paid for. The poor, ignorant man is not able to rise above the idea of payment. An appeal to mercy is unknown to him. The flesh has no understanding of God as Giver.

1 Samuel 17:36

Suggestion to Ask Samuel for Advice

This chapter is full of details about Saul. In his long and fruitless search, the Holy Spirit shows what kind of a man Saul is. He is a man full of inability, but also full of unfamiliarity with the things of God. Not Saul, but his servant noticed that they are near a man of God and suggests the idea of visiting him. The servant takes the initiative. He knows of the man of God and gives a good testimony of him, of his honor among the people and of the trustworthiness of his words. Samuel is really a “letter, … known and read by all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2), but apparently not by Saul.

Saul does not seem to know about Samuel’s existence. That sheds a questionable light on his mindset. It seems that he has never heard of Samuel, or at least has shown no interest at all. Saul does not know the generally known prophet, although Samuel lives not far from him, about forty kilometers.

On all his tours Samuel never visited the estate of Saul’s father and never enjoyed hospitality there. Saul will not have left the farm for the first time but will have had contacts somewhere more often. The subject of conversation may have been Samuel. His servant knows quite a bit about it. But in the whole history of Saul we see nowhere that he has a personal relationship with the LORD.

Saul also depends on his servant to work out the suggestion, while he should lead his servant. He does not lead but is led. He believes that a service of the prophet of God should be paid for. The poor, ignorant man is not able to rise above the idea of payment. An appeal to mercy is unknown to him. The flesh has no understanding of God as Giver.

1 Samuel 17:37

Suggestion to Ask Samuel for Advice

This chapter is full of details about Saul. In his long and fruitless search, the Holy Spirit shows what kind of a man Saul is. He is a man full of inability, but also full of unfamiliarity with the things of God. Not Saul, but his servant noticed that they are near a man of God and suggests the idea of visiting him. The servant takes the initiative. He knows of the man of God and gives a good testimony of him, of his honor among the people and of the trustworthiness of his words. Samuel is really a “letter, … known and read by all men” (2 Corinthians 3:2), but apparently not by Saul.

Saul does not seem to know about Samuel’s existence. That sheds a questionable light on his mindset. It seems that he has never heard of Samuel, or at least has shown no interest at all. Saul does not know the generally known prophet, although Samuel lives not far from him, about forty kilometers.

On all his tours Samuel never visited the estate of Saul’s father and never enjoyed hospitality there. Saul will not have left the farm for the first time but will have had contacts somewhere more often. The subject of conversation may have been Samuel. His servant knows quite a bit about it. But in the whole history of Saul we see nowhere that he has a personal relationship with the LORD.

Saul also depends on his servant to work out the suggestion, while he should lead his servant. He does not lead but is led. He believes that a service of the prophet of God should be paid for. The poor, ignorant man is not able to rise above the idea of payment. An appeal to mercy is unknown to him. The flesh has no understanding of God as Giver.

1 Samuel 17:38

Prophet and Seer

Suddenly, as it seems, the writer says something about the difference between a prophet and a seer. The word “seer” appears here for the first time in the Bible. The difference between a prophet and a seer is that a prophet sends a message from God to the people, while a seer sees what other people do not see. A seer has insight into God’s thoughts, he receives revelations, even in cases as earthly as lost donkeys. A seer communicates what he sees (cf. Ezekiel 13:3).

A seer is always a prophet, but a prophet is not always a seer. With “seer” the emphasis is more on the result, with “prophet” more on the source. Samuel is both. Saul and his servant ask for the seer (1 Samuel 9:11). They are more interested in the result than in what God thinks of it.

Opposite the seer is the blind Saul. When we see the Lord Jesus in glory (Hebrews 2:9), we have something to communicate. If we are “seers” in this respect, we can also be “prophets”. If we are blind to the glory of the Lord Jesus, we cannot pass on anything about Him.

1 Samuel 17:39

Girls Show Saul the Way

Saul is convinced by his servant. They go on their way to the city where Samuel is. To get to the city they must climb a hill. We can see in it the symbol that Saul must reach a certain spiritual height to receive certain revelations.

To find the way to Samuel, Saul again depends on others, this time on girls they meet on the way. In a spiritual sense it appears that he does not know the way to God’s Word, represented in Samuel. The girls know where Samuel is and what he is going to do. They tell about it with enthusiasm.

The girls are on their way to draw water. This speaks of getting refreshment from the Word as the preparation to testify of the man of God. They are familiar with the source and the sacrifice, about which they also tell. Girls represent weakness, humility and dependence, the right characteristics to be able to draw from the source. Thus young believers, men and women, can, if they are dependent on the Lord, be used by Him to testify of Him through what they have drawn from God’s Word (cf. 2 Kings 5:2-3).

Saul and his servant follow the instructions of the girls. Then the meeting takes place between the future king and the prophet. This meeting takes place at the very moment that a public sacrifice festival is being held. This is no coincidence. It indicates that the basis of government is the sacrifice. What is known for the whole city, turns out to be unknown for Saul. It seems as if he is hearing of the sacrifice for the first time.

1 Samuel 17:40

Girls Show Saul the Way

Saul is convinced by his servant. They go on their way to the city where Samuel is. To get to the city they must climb a hill. We can see in it the symbol that Saul must reach a certain spiritual height to receive certain revelations.

To find the way to Samuel, Saul again depends on others, this time on girls they meet on the way. In a spiritual sense it appears that he does not know the way to God’s Word, represented in Samuel. The girls know where Samuel is and what he is going to do. They tell about it with enthusiasm.

The girls are on their way to draw water. This speaks of getting refreshment from the Word as the preparation to testify of the man of God. They are familiar with the source and the sacrifice, about which they also tell. Girls represent weakness, humility and dependence, the right characteristics to be able to draw from the source. Thus young believers, men and women, can, if they are dependent on the Lord, be used by Him to testify of Him through what they have drawn from God’s Word (cf. 2 Kings 5:2-3).

Saul and his servant follow the instructions of the girls. Then the meeting takes place between the future king and the prophet. This meeting takes place at the very moment that a public sacrifice festival is being held. This is no coincidence. It indicates that the basis of government is the sacrifice. What is known for the whole city, turns out to be unknown for Saul. It seems as if he is hearing of the sacrifice for the first time.

1 Samuel 17:41

Girls Show Saul the Way

Saul is convinced by his servant. They go on their way to the city where Samuel is. To get to the city they must climb a hill. We can see in it the symbol that Saul must reach a certain spiritual height to receive certain revelations.

To find the way to Samuel, Saul again depends on others, this time on girls they meet on the way. In a spiritual sense it appears that he does not know the way to God’s Word, represented in Samuel. The girls know where Samuel is and what he is going to do. They tell about it with enthusiasm.

The girls are on their way to draw water. This speaks of getting refreshment from the Word as the preparation to testify of the man of God. They are familiar with the source and the sacrifice, about which they also tell. Girls represent weakness, humility and dependence, the right characteristics to be able to draw from the source. Thus young believers, men and women, can, if they are dependent on the Lord, be used by Him to testify of Him through what they have drawn from God’s Word (cf. 2 Kings 5:2-3).

Saul and his servant follow the instructions of the girls. Then the meeting takes place between the future king and the prophet. This meeting takes place at the very moment that a public sacrifice festival is being held. This is no coincidence. It indicates that the basis of government is the sacrifice. What is known for the whole city, turns out to be unknown for Saul. It seems as if he is hearing of the sacrifice for the first time.

1 Samuel 17:42

Girls Show Saul the Way

Saul is convinced by his servant. They go on their way to the city where Samuel is. To get to the city they must climb a hill. We can see in it the symbol that Saul must reach a certain spiritual height to receive certain revelations.

To find the way to Samuel, Saul again depends on others, this time on girls they meet on the way. In a spiritual sense it appears that he does not know the way to God’s Word, represented in Samuel. The girls know where Samuel is and what he is going to do. They tell about it with enthusiasm.

The girls are on their way to draw water. This speaks of getting refreshment from the Word as the preparation to testify of the man of God. They are familiar with the source and the sacrifice, about which they also tell. Girls represent weakness, humility and dependence, the right characteristics to be able to draw from the source. Thus young believers, men and women, can, if they are dependent on the Lord, be used by Him to testify of Him through what they have drawn from God’s Word (cf. 2 Kings 5:2-3).

Saul and his servant follow the instructions of the girls. Then the meeting takes place between the future king and the prophet. This meeting takes place at the very moment that a public sacrifice festival is being held. This is no coincidence. It indicates that the basis of government is the sacrifice. What is known for the whole city, turns out to be unknown for Saul. It seems as if he is hearing of the sacrifice for the first time.

1 Samuel 17:43

Girls Show Saul the Way

Saul is convinced by his servant. They go on their way to the city where Samuel is. To get to the city they must climb a hill. We can see in it the symbol that Saul must reach a certain spiritual height to receive certain revelations.

To find the way to Samuel, Saul again depends on others, this time on girls they meet on the way. In a spiritual sense it appears that he does not know the way to God’s Word, represented in Samuel. The girls know where Samuel is and what he is going to do. They tell about it with enthusiasm.

The girls are on their way to draw water. This speaks of getting refreshment from the Word as the preparation to testify of the man of God. They are familiar with the source and the sacrifice, about which they also tell. Girls represent weakness, humility and dependence, the right characteristics to be able to draw from the source. Thus young believers, men and women, can, if they are dependent on the Lord, be used by Him to testify of Him through what they have drawn from God’s Word (cf. 2 Kings 5:2-3).

Saul and his servant follow the instructions of the girls. Then the meeting takes place between the future king and the prophet. This meeting takes place at the very moment that a public sacrifice festival is being held. This is no coincidence. It indicates that the basis of government is the sacrifice. What is known for the whole city, turns out to be unknown for Saul. It seems as if he is hearing of the sacrifice for the first time.

1 Samuel 17:44

Samuel Is Informed About Saul

The meeting with Saul is no surprise for Samuel. The LORD has informed him of this meeting. He has “revealed to Samuel’s ear”, as it is literally written. So Samuel also spoke “in the LORD’s hearing” (1 Samuel 8:21). The Hebrew expression reads: He discovered Samuel’s ear, that is: He took off the cover. This is the way God reveals Himself to us. He does not speak only, but discovers our ear, He opens our ear. If God wants to reveal Himself to a soul, He discovers the ear by saying: ““Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!”” (Mark 7:34).

The LORD always holds the matter in his hand. He directs meetings and determines the path along which they take place (Psalms 139:2). He leads His own in that way and makes clear to them what they should do (Acts 10:19-20). He also sends the unbelievers on a way where they encounter His Word, like here Saul.

Samuel had to listen to the voice of the people, but God directs it so that the people will learn from their own choice. He knows His people and therefore knows exactly which man suits them best. God’s hand is in the choice of Saul, whom He also means as the answer to the call of His people for help. He knows the cause of their appeal for help, that it is not because of the need of their sins, but because they want to be like the nations. Yet we read in these verses four times that the LORD speaks of “My people”.

When Samuel sees Saul, the LORD confirms the word that he has spoken. He tells Samuel that this is the man He has spoken about. It may be that the LORD gives this confirmation to Samuel because there is a question in his heart if this is the man He means. The Lord sees all the unspoken questions, and He answers them.

1 Samuel 17:45

Samuel Is Informed About Saul

The meeting with Saul is no surprise for Samuel. The LORD has informed him of this meeting. He has “revealed to Samuel’s ear”, as it is literally written. So Samuel also spoke “in the LORD’s hearing” (1 Samuel 8:21). The Hebrew expression reads: He discovered Samuel’s ear, that is: He took off the cover. This is the way God reveals Himself to us. He does not speak only, but discovers our ear, He opens our ear. If God wants to reveal Himself to a soul, He discovers the ear by saying: ““Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!”” (Mark 7:34).

The LORD always holds the matter in his hand. He directs meetings and determines the path along which they take place (Psalms 139:2). He leads His own in that way and makes clear to them what they should do (Acts 10:19-20). He also sends the unbelievers on a way where they encounter His Word, like here Saul.

Samuel had to listen to the voice of the people, but God directs it so that the people will learn from their own choice. He knows His people and therefore knows exactly which man suits them best. God’s hand is in the choice of Saul, whom He also means as the answer to the call of His people for help. He knows the cause of their appeal for help, that it is not because of the need of their sins, but because they want to be like the nations. Yet we read in these verses four times that the LORD speaks of “My people”.

When Samuel sees Saul, the LORD confirms the word that he has spoken. He tells Samuel that this is the man He has spoken about. It may be that the LORD gives this confirmation to Samuel because there is a question in his heart if this is the man He means. The Lord sees all the unspoken questions, and He answers them.

1 Samuel 17:46

Samuel Is Informed About Saul

The meeting with Saul is no surprise for Samuel. The LORD has informed him of this meeting. He has “revealed to Samuel’s ear”, as it is literally written. So Samuel also spoke “in the LORD’s hearing” (1 Samuel 8:21). The Hebrew expression reads: He discovered Samuel’s ear, that is: He took off the cover. This is the way God reveals Himself to us. He does not speak only, but discovers our ear, He opens our ear. If God wants to reveal Himself to a soul, He discovers the ear by saying: ““Ephphatha!” that is, “Be opened!”” (Mark 7:34).

The LORD always holds the matter in his hand. He directs meetings and determines the path along which they take place (Psalms 139:2). He leads His own in that way and makes clear to them what they should do (Acts 10:19-20). He also sends the unbelievers on a way where they encounter His Word, like here Saul.

Samuel had to listen to the voice of the people, but God directs it so that the people will learn from their own choice. He knows His people and therefore knows exactly which man suits them best. God’s hand is in the choice of Saul, whom He also means as the answer to the call of His people for help. He knows the cause of their appeal for help, that it is not because of the need of their sins, but because they want to be like the nations. Yet we read in these verses four times that the LORD speaks of “My people”.

When Samuel sees Saul, the LORD confirms the word that he has spoken. He tells Samuel that this is the man He has spoken about. It may be that the LORD gives this confirmation to Samuel because there is a question in his heart if this is the man He means. The Lord sees all the unspoken questions, and He answers them.

1 Samuel 17:47

Saul Meets Samuel

When Saul stands before Samuel, it turns out that he does not know Samuel. Because Samuel was informed by the LORD of the coming of Saul, he also knows what to say to Saul. He can tell Saul what lives in his mind, what will happen to him, and what he should do. To this end, he invites Saul to go before him to the high place and eat with him. The high place is the right place and the meal the right occupation to communicate these things to Saul.

1 Samuel 17:48

Saul Meets Samuel

When Saul stands before Samuel, it turns out that he does not know Samuel. Because Samuel was informed by the LORD of the coming of Saul, he also knows what to say to Saul. He can tell Saul what lives in his mind, what will happen to him, and what he should do. To this end, he invites Saul to go before him to the high place and eat with him. The high place is the right place and the meal the right occupation to communicate these things to Saul.

1 Samuel 17:49

The Amazement of Saul

Before Saul can ask his question about the lost donkeys, Samuel tells him they have been found. Samuel knows not only that the donkeys were lost and have been found now, but also how long they have been looking for them. But, Samuel adds, what do some donkeys mean to a future king who will have at his disposal all that is desirable in Israel? As king he will take it, as Samuel told the people in the previous chapter.

“All that is desirable in Israel” can also refer to Saul himself. In Saul everything that Israel considers desirable takes shape. He answers to everything they desire. This is the man who provides what they imagine to be a king. Saul is in this a great contrast to the Lord Jesus. When the Lord Jesus comes, there is nothing desirable in Him for the unbelieving people (Isaiah 53:2).

Saul must have noticed something of the special content of what Samuel says. This is clear from his answer. Why these honors to someone like him who comes from the least family of Benjamin? We do not know what he has been thinking in his heart. It is one thing to think small of yourself compared to others, it is something else to take your true place in the presence of God. Humility in comparison with others can be something you are forced to do. Sometimes you can only honestly admit that you are not as big as the other, but that does not prove that you are convinced of your own failure against God.

1 Samuel 17:50

The Amazement of Saul

Before Saul can ask his question about the lost donkeys, Samuel tells him they have been found. Samuel knows not only that the donkeys were lost and have been found now, but also how long they have been looking for them. But, Samuel adds, what do some donkeys mean to a future king who will have at his disposal all that is desirable in Israel? As king he will take it, as Samuel told the people in the previous chapter.

“All that is desirable in Israel” can also refer to Saul himself. In Saul everything that Israel considers desirable takes shape. He answers to everything they desire. This is the man who provides what they imagine to be a king. Saul is in this a great contrast to the Lord Jesus. When the Lord Jesus comes, there is nothing desirable in Him for the unbelieving people (Isaiah 53:2).

Saul must have noticed something of the special content of what Samuel says. This is clear from his answer. Why these honors to someone like him who comes from the least family of Benjamin? We do not know what he has been thinking in his heart. It is one thing to think small of yourself compared to others, it is something else to take your true place in the presence of God. Humility in comparison with others can be something you are forced to do. Sometimes you can only honestly admit that you are not as big as the other, but that does not prove that you are convinced of your own failure against God.

1 Samuel 17:51

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:52

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:53

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:54

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:55

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:56

Samuel Eats and Speaks With Saul

To Saul’s question “why then do you speak to me in this way?”, Samuel answers in the form of a sacrificial meal, with guests also present. Saul and his servant get the places of honor. Samuel has the sacrifice ready. As soon as he has received the communication of Saul’s coming from the LORD, he has prepared for the reception of Saul, a reception based on the sacrifice.

If Saul had known the meaning of the sacrifices, it would have spoken to his heart. The breast of the sacrifice is not mentioned, there is nothing to see of it. There is only the leg. The leg speaks of strength, the breast speaks of love. Saul receives what is left of the sacrifice, the remainder, but the most essential is missing. There is power in Saul, but no love.

We do not know the subject of the conversation between Samuel and Saul. The conversation took place on the roof. The flat roofs are used as places to retreat for a conversation. Therefore there must also be a fence on the roof (Deuteronomy 22:8). Saul seems to have spent the night on the roof.

When the night is over, the morning of the anointing has come. A new day, a new period, is dawning for Israel. The question is whether it will be a beautiful day. Samuel orders Saul to get up. He wants to proclaim to Saul the Word of God. It is one of the last acts of Samuel. The time of his stepping back is coming. He does not complain, but faithfully does to the end what the LORD tells him.

Samuel commands Saul to listen to God’s Word. This should prepare Saul for the fact that the meetings Samuel is going to predict are not random encounters, but that they have a meaning. They are signs. The signs are not explained what to Saul means he must turn to the LORD for their meaning.

1 Samuel 17:58

Introduction

This chapter has two parts. Both parts deal with the designation of Saul as king. We see how God is very busy with Saul throughout the preparation for this.

In the first part (1 Samuel 10:1-16) Saul is prepared for kingship in secret by Samuel, that is, by God, while no man in Israel yet knows of his kingship. Saul was not rejected by God from the beginning. God has prepared him in such a way that Saul has every opportunity to get to know God and know how to govern. This preparation is also important for every believer because the Lord has a service, a task, for every believer.

In the second part (1 Samuel 10:17-27) Saul is openly appointed. It is not Samuel who appoints him so that it does not seem that he is behind the appointment, but God appoints him. God does so in a way that the people can attribute the choice of Saul to none but themselves.

Saul Anointed a King

Saul is anointed from a flask, David from a horn (1 Samuel 16:13). A flask is fragile. Here it is a symbol of the kingship of Saul that is nothing more than human work and will finally be broken. Oil speaks of the Holy Spirit. God indicates that He wants to use Saul, but that Saul must let himself be guided by the Holy Spirit. Later Saul indeed is led by the Spirit, but only externally (1 Samuel 10:10). The horn from which David is anointed is not fragile but speaks of strength (1 Samuel 2:10). The horn comes from a clean animal that was first sacrificed to God, and therein lies the power. Exercise of the kingship can only take place based on the sacrifice.

There is no jealousy with Samuel (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:4b), but respect. He submits to the new king with a kiss of love. He does not do so in public, but in this personal conversation, as an expression of his heart. He was the first to recognize Saul as his new king from that moment on. Here we see a love that “does not seek its own” (1 Corinthians 13:5b; cf. 1 Corinthians 10:24). In a world full of selfishness, the joy of another person’s prosperity, for example the promotion of a colleague, is rare.

Samuel acts in the Name of the LORD and anoints Saul king over the “inheritance” of the LORD, that is His land. This means a great responsibility. He must protect that inheritance, take care of it, manage it for the LORD and render account to Him.