1 Samuel 21 Commentary What was going on in 1 Samuel 21? In 1 Samuel 21, David, amidst his perilous escape from King Saul, encounters both divine providence and human compassion, leading him to make unconventional choices for survival. This chapter unfolds as a dramatic narrative of David’s cunning and resourcefulness, highlighting his interactions with…
1 Samuel 20 Commentary 1 Samuel 20 delves into the intricate and emotionally charged relationship between David and Jonathan amidst the turbulent backdrop of King Saul’s court. It portrays the deep bond between Jonathan, King Saul’s son, and David, the future king of Israel, as they navigate the dangerous undercurrents of Saul’s growing hostility. The…
1 Samuel 19 Commentary At the heart of 1 Samuel 19 lies King Saul’s growing jealousy towards David, contrasted with Jonathan’s unwavering loyalty to his friend. This narrative captures the intense familial and political dynamics of Saul’s court, as David navigates treacherous waters, marked by assassination attempts and narrow escapes. Michal, David’s wife, also plays…
1 Samuel 17 Commentary 1 Samuel 17 narrates one of the most iconic events in biblical history: the young shepherd David’s encounter with the Philistine giant, Goliath. Set against the backdrop of a tense standoff between the Israelite and Philistine armies, this chapter unfolds the tale of David’s unlikely victory and captures not just a…
1 Samuel 16 Commentary 1 Samuel 16 is a crucial chapter in Israel’s history, marking the transition from Saul’s reign to the rise of David. In this chapter, the prophet Samuel, following God’s instructions, sets out to Bethlehem under a divine mission to anoint a new king. Amidst political tension and divine directives, Samuel encounters…
1 Samuel 15 Commentary 1 Samuel 15 presents a consequential episode in the history of Israel’s monarchy. In this chapter, King Saul faces a test of divine obedience as he receives explicit instructions from Samuel, the prophet. The task is clear yet daunting: to completely destroy the Amalekites, a longstanding enemy of Israel. However, Saul’s…
1 Samuel 14 Commentary 1 Samuel 14 unfolds with a mix of bravery, divine intervention, and impulsive leadership. The chapter highlights Jonathan’s daring raid against the Philistine outpost, an act of faith and strategic brilliance. It contrasts this with King Saul’s controversial oath, which inadvertently leads to turmoil among his own troops. The narrative reveals…
1 Samuel 13 Commentary 1 Samuel 13 unfolds in Israel’s early monarchy, featuring King Saul at a defining moment of his reign. As the Philistines muster a formidable force, Saul faces not only external threats but also internal pressures and a test of his faith and obedience. This chapter captures the tension between human impatience…
1 Samuel 12 Commentary 1 Samuel 12 presents a turning point in the history of Israel, marked by Samuel’s profound farewell address to the nation. As he steps down from leadership, Samuel confronts the Israelites with their own history, their recent demand for a monarch, and the implications of their choices. This chapter highlights Samuel’s…
1 Samuel 9 Commentary 1 Samuel 9 explores a turn in the life of Saul, a young man from the tribe of Benjamin. This chapter narrates Saul’s simple mission to find his father’s lost donkeys, which unwittingly steers him towards a destiny far greater than he could imagine. Alongside his servant, Saul’s journey through the…