1 Samuel 2:35 Commentary: Prophecy of a Faithful Priest

And I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who shall do according to what is in my heart and in my mind. And I will build him a sure house, and he shall go in and out before my anointed forever.

1 Samuel 2:35, ESV

1 Samuel 2:35 Commentary

1 Samuel 2:35 speaks to the establishment and corruption of priesthood in Israel’s history. This verse specifically is a prophecy delivered by a man of God to Eli, the high priest, about raising up a faithful priest who would serve according to God’s heart and mind.

Historically, this period is marked by the transition from the time of the judges to the monarchy in Israel. The priesthood, centered in Shiloh, had become corrupt under Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas (1 Samuel 2:12-17). The “promised priest” here contrasts sharply with Eli’s unworthy sons, representing a shift towards godliness and order.

Theologically, this verse is part of a larger narrative emphasizing God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in preserving a remnant who remains true to Him. This priest would embody the ideal qualities that were lacking in Eli’s house. It’s a messianic prophecy too, pointing forward to Jesus Christ, the ultimate faithful priest (Hebrews 2:17).

For the contemporary Christian, this verse speaks to issues of leadership and integrity:

• It’s a call for leaders, especially spiritual ones, to prioritize godliness and service over personal gain or status
• It challenges all believers to reflect on their own faithfulness in their walk with God
• Ethically, this verse challenges readers to consider their fidelity to God’s calling and contrasts the outcomes of faithfulness versus corruption, urging a reflection on personal and communal alignment with God’s will

Cross-references like Psalm 110:4 and Hebrews 5:5-6 further illuminate the fulfillment of this prophecy in Christ, the perfect high priest who intercedes for humanity.

1 Samuel 2:35 isn’t just an ancient critique of corrupt priesthood; it’s a timeless call to faithfulness and a foreshadowing of the ultimate Priest who perfectly embodies what it means to align with God’s heart and mind.

As individuals and communities, this verse invites us to consider our own alignment with God’s will and to embrace the hope offered through the perfect priesthood of Christ.

Read 1 Samuel 2:35 in Additional Translations

I will raise up for myself a faithful priest, who will do according to what is in my heart and mind. I will firmly establish his priestly house, and they will minister before my anointed one always.

1 Samuel 2:35, NIV

Then I will raise up for Myself a faithful priest who shall do according to what is in My heart and in My mind. I will build him a sure house, and he shall walk before My anointed forever.

1 Samuel 2:35, NKJV