Samuel

Intro: I have always thought it is important for us to occasionally examine the lives of various characters in the Bible. They are revealed to us for a reason. Today we will look at one of the longer-lived servants, but only the extremes of his life are known in detail – Samuel.

I) Background

His mother, Hannah, wanted a son and was unable – – yet she maintained her trust in God – vs.18

She prayed and vowed to dedicate him to God’s service – v.11 – beyond the normal first-born – , – which tells us that true satisfaction is not in getting something, but in serving others (God)

She brought him to the temple after weaning him – vs.19-28 – and was given five more children – 2:20-21

II) Samuel as a boy – servant

Did not resent or rebel against his mother’s vow –

Was faithful as a child to God and Eli – 2:18, 26

He responded to the prophetic call with respect, despite the strange circumstances – 3:2-9 – and withheld nothing from Eli – vs.15-18

God was with Samuel, where He had not been with Eli – 3:1, 19-21

III) Samuel in his prime – judge

Surprisingly, less is known of this time of his life than the rest, most of what we know comes from inference

Had the confidence of the people – 7:3-6 – and he taught them to repent and serve only God –12:23-24

Kept peace with Israel’s enemies through God’s help – 7:7‑14

Highly respected as a judge – 7:15-17

IV) Samuel as old man – prophet and priest

People reject God by rejecting his counsel – 8:4-20

Prophet to Saul:

i. appoints him as king – 10:23-26

ii. rebukes him for assuming priest’s duty – 13:8-14

iii. rebukes him for disobedience – 15:13-31, 35

iv. kills Agag – 15:32-33

Prophet to David: i. appoints him as king – 16:6-13

Concl: We can learn several lessons from the life of Samuel: putting God first – – respect for elders – – lifetime of faith – – bravery in face of death – – and leadership by example – .

Matthew 6:33 ESV

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Leviticus 19:32 ESV

“You shall stand up before the gray head and honor the face of an old man, and you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.

2 Corinthians 5:10 ESV

For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.

Matthew 10:28 ESV

And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

1 Peter 5:2–3 ESV

shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.