WAITING FOR THE TRUE KING A SERIES IN 1 SAMUEL
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CONTENTS HOW TO READ THE OLD TESTAMENT 4 MAP 6 BIBLE TIMELINE 8 5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE MOST OF THIS SERIES COMPANION 9 WAITING FOR THE KING 11 SERVING THE KING 21 LISTENING TO THE KING 31 WORSHIPPING THE KING 41 CROWNING THE KING 51 OBEYING THE KING 62 SEEING THE KING 73 SWEARING ALLEGIANCE TO THE KING 83 THE SUFFERING KING 95 WAITING FOR THE TRUE KING 105
3 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the HOW word. – Luke 1:1-2 TO READ THE OLD Luke introduces his Gospel as a fulfilment story – ‘the things fulfilled among us.’ Luke’s story of Jesus TESTAMENT is a fulfilment story. It’s the story of the fulfilment of the Old Testament in Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and pouring out of the Spirit. And as we read on from these opening two verses, chapter by chapter we meet a rich array of both Old Testament quotations and allusions as Luke weaves his fulfilment tapestry. Finally, in Luke’s last chapter, Jesus’ own words most strikingly announce the totality of this fulfilment: He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. – Luke 24:25-27 He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will
4 suffer and rise from the dead on the the Old Testament anticipated these third day, and repentance for the things about Jesus: forgiveness of sins will be preached • he is the Messiah – God’s true King. in his name to all nations, beginning • core to his role as Messiah was his at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of suffering and his resurrection. these things. I am going to send you • repenting – turning to this Jesus – what my Father has promised; but brings forgiveness of sins. stay in the city until you have been • this message will be proclaimed to clothed with power from on high.” all nations. – Luke 24:44-49 • he sends the Holy Spirit, In these two resurrection appearances, empowering this worldwide mission Jesus tells his followers how to read of the gospel (which Luke shows us the Old Testament. It’s all about him. in his second volume – Acts). All of it. In the first scene he refers From the great lookout of Luke 24, to “all the Scriptures”. In the second Jesus shows us how to read every scene he says the same thing a page of the Old Testament. Whatever different way – the three-fold division book you’re reading, from Genesis to of “the Law of Moses, the Prophets and Malachi, it’s all about these key truths. the Psalms” was a common way of It’s all about Jesus. referring to the entire Old Testament. It’s a stunning claim. The entire Old Testament – every page – every word – is about Jesus. Specifically,
5 N
TYRE
BETH- MAPW E ANATH KEDESH ARAMEANS
ACHZIB BETH-SHEMESH S
RAMAH NAVEH ACCO CHINNERETH APHEK ASHTAROTH HANNATHON APHEK ACHSHAPH HAMATH S E A O F CHINNERETH
DOR EN-DOR MEGIDDO JEZREEL RAMOTH-GILEAD
TAANACH N A D R O J R E V I R BETH-SHEAN
IBLEAM JABESH-GILEAD HEPHER BEZEK SOCOH TIRZAH ZAPHON
SHECHEM SUCCOTH
ZARETHAN APHEK ADAM AMMON JOPPA JOGBEHAH
JAZER OPHRAH RABBATH- BETH-EL BENE-AMMON MIZPEH GILGAL GEZER GIBEON RAMAH KIRIATH-JEARIM GIBEAH OF SAUL HESHBON EKRON JEBUS ASHDOD BETH-SHEMESH MEDEBA GATH AZEKAH BETHLEHEM
ASHKELON KEILAH
LACHISH EGLON HEBRON GAZA DIBON EN-GEDI AROER DEBIR
ZIKLAG ESHTEMOA THE DEAD SEA HORMAH JUDAH
ARAD BEER-SHEBA
AROER KIR-HARESETH
ZOAR 6 Jacob’s 12 sons who became the 12 tribes of Israel (they move to Eygpt) the people wander in the adam & eve desert until the time of Blessing: Joshua... the First Heavens North Kingdom destroyed and First Earth Hosea (called Israel) Amos 10 Commandments Later named Israel
the flood northern prophets A picture of judgment and salvation samuel saul Samuel the final judge annoints Saul jacob (who fails) NORTHERN KINGDOM
SOUTHERN KINGDOM
southern prophets South Kingdom exiled (called Judah) moses david 400 years A taste of blessing: of silence Promises coming true: the fall God’s people in he leads Israel out of Curse: God’s people God’s place under Egypt in the Exodus thrown out of God’s God’s King presence. The promise of a serpent crusher. abraham Isaiah Jeremiah The exiles return to Promise of blessing: Joel Jerusalem God’s people in Micah God’s place Zephaniah under God’s rule judges Habakkuk new heaven Sin persists: a repeated cycle of Jesus sends the + new earth sin and judgment foreign nation exile Holy Spirit Curse: God’s people again Blessing forever king solomon prophets thrown out of God’s presence because of Jesus David and Solomon’s sin causes a split in Israel, resulting in… Jesus takes the curse the age of to bring blessing, Jonah fulfilling the the Spirit joshua Nahum Old Testament in his God’s presence in his people isaac God’s people enter the Obadiah Abraham’s son promised land... death and resurrection spreading blessing across the earth
ISAIAH 1-2 SAMUEL JONAH PROVERBS JEREMIAH DANIEL ESTHER MATTHEW GENESIS LEVITICUS JUDGES 1-2 KINGS NAHUM NUMBERS JOSHUA ECCLESIASTES JOEL EZEKIEL NEHEMIAH MARK LETTERS REVELATION EXODUS DEUTORONOMY RUTH PSALMS OBADIAH 1-2 CHRONICLES MICAH MALACHI ZACHARIAH LUKE SONG OF SOLOMANS AMOS EZRA HAGGAI JOHN ZEPHANIAH HOSEA HABAKKUK
7 BIBLE TIMELINE
8 Our Growth Groups are all about growing our servant hearts together. Here are some tips for how to best use this Series Companion for that goal. 5 TIPS FOR MAKING THE 1. KEEP IT WITH YOU MOST OF The reason this booklet is called a ‘Series Companion’ is because it’s a resource not just for THIS SERIES your time with your Growth Group but also for taking COMPANION notes during the Bible Talk, when using Grow Daily, using the Family Growth material, etc. Keep it with you throughout the series. 2. SERVANT NOT MASTER The studies in this Series Companion are a servant for your group not a master. Each group will use them differently. That’s great. Discuss together as a group how you’d like to approach the series. 3. HEAD, HEART, HANDS One of the great advantages of doing Bible Studies which are linked to Bible Talks is the potential to integrate ‘head’ learning with ‘heart’ engagement, and ‘hands’ application. We want transformed heads and hearts to lead to transformed lives. Give good attention to each aspect.
9 4. PREPARE A helpful Growth Group member is one who: prepares the study beforehand; shares their answers as well as their life; and listens thoughtfully and actively to what others have to say. Commit yourself to the other members of your group by being there each week and doing these three crucial things. 5. PRAY A key way we respond to listening to God in his word together is by talking to him together. It’s a vital part of our ministry to each other – both when gathered as a Growth Group and also beyond that gathered time. You will notice that we have changed the prayer page. We would really like you to be reflecting on things to pray about in your life as a result of what you have learnt this week, in the section called personal prayer. We would also love you to pray for the needs of your group and your Cross Cultural Connect Partner as well as 1 or 2 of your unbelieving friends or family. It would be great to discuss with your group during the first week, some unbelieving friends or family that you would like to pray for over the course of the term.
10 1WAITING FOR THE KING BIG IDEA Hannah epitomises the plight of Israel: empty and afflicted, but still loved by God. The difference is that Hannah is waiting for God’s true King. This anticipates the whole world’s need for Jesus. KEY VERSE “ those who oppose the Lord will be broken. The Most High will thunder from heaven; the Lord will judge the ends of the earth. “He will give strength to his king and exalt the horn of his anointed.” - 1 Samuel 2:10
11 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
12 PRAY TO BEGIN Note: Before you read the passage and begin the study, refer to the Bible timeline. As we turn to 1 Samuel chapter 1, what’s just happened in Israel’s history? What’s still up ahead? (See Dig Deeper for further detail on this). READ 1 SAMUEL 1:1-20 HEAD/HEART 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
1 Samuel 1:3 is the very first time the phrase “Lord of hosts” is used in the Bible. This is a militaristic term for God, with “hosts” meaning “army”. In a story which is all about leaders, and ultimately Israel’s king, we are reminded that God is the ultimate king, who leads Israel out into battle, and fights for them. 2. Why is this “Lord of hosts” term worth noting? Why is this important in a story about Israel’s leaders and Israel’s king?
READ DEUTERONOMY 7:14 3. Hannah’s life is empty and barren, and she experiences little of the promised blessing to Israel. How does she represent Israel’s emptiness and lack of blessing at this point in their history? Why is this the case?
13 4. What strikes you about Hannah’s language in her first prayer (1:11 and 20b)? Compare this with Exodus 3:7; 4:31 and Deuteronomy 26:7. As one who represents Israel in this passage, how does Hannah trust in God’s character, and his dealings with Israel in the past?
5. How does Eli (the current high priest in Israel) respond to Hannah? What do you think about his response?
READ 1 SAMUEL 1:21 – 2:11 6. What strikes you about Hannah’s song/prayer? What are some main “themes” of her prayer? (Notice particularly the theme of “reversal” – where the humble are lifted high, and the proud are brought low)
7. What are you learning about God in this passage?
The words in Hannah’s prayer are centred entirely on God. She displays an amazing belief in God – his character and his works. Sometimes we struggle with belief. 8. Where or when do you see hints of unbelief in your heart?
14 9. Compare Hannah’s song with Mary’s song (Luke 1:46-56). What similarities do you notice? How do the themes of Hannah’s song find their true fulfilment in Jesus Christ?
Consider 1 Samuel 2:10, and how it looks forward to God’s ultimate fulfilment in Jesus. Our God has kept all his promises from Hannah’s time (and from the very beginning of time!) until now. 10. Does this give you peace and assurance that God will keep his promises to you in Christ, until the last day and beyond? Why or why not?
HEART/HANDS 11. What does Hannah teach us about prayer? About longings, grief, and emotions, and a right response to the circumstances of life?
(Optional: Read Philippians 4:6 and 1 Peter 5:6-7, and consider how we see these teachings about prayer lived out by Hannah.)
15 12. What emptiness, weakness, needs, disappointments, or griefs are weighing on your heart at the moment? (Share with the group if you feel comfortable) What might it mean for you to bring these situations, emotions, and worries before the God who hears, in faith?
God gives us gifts in order to give us joy, and to show us what he, the Giver of all good gifts, is like. He gives us gifts so that we might turn them back to him – giving him glory in our joyful praise. We see this powerfully in Hannah’s story and her prayer. She had been childless for a long time, and yet, when God answers her prayer and grants her a son, she gives him back to God for his whole life, as she promised – with praise and faith. 13. What gifts has God given you? How you might use them for his praise, glory, and purposes – in light of his greatest gift, Christ Jesus his Son?
Hannah is part of the much bigger picture of what God is doing through salvation history. Her story anticipates the births of two baby boys (John and Jesus), which would change everything. She is also a model for us, as she takes the words and themes of Scripture, and turns them back to God in praise in prayer. Her words give us not only an example, but words to pray and sing ourselves. 14. Do you practise taking the words of Scripture and letting them shape your prayers? How can you do this – personally, and together as a growth group?
16 DIG DEEPER: 1 SAMUEL IN CONTEXT Each book of the Bible is wonderfully, beautifully, and richly different. Each has its own flavour and feel, its own vibe and variety. And yet, the Bible isn’t just a large collection of “stand-alone” short stories and poems. The Bible contains one grand, coherent story, to which all the books of the Bible contribute in their different ways – the story of who God is, and what he has been doing, is doing, and will do. Overall, it might be described as a salvation story: one that reveals God’s glory through both his salvation and judgment. The main character of this story is, undoubtedly, the Trinitarian God of the Bible – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit… and the events of the story are particularly centred around one central, earth-shattering event: the entrance of the second person of the Trinity into human history – the birth, life, atoning death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament anticipates his coming, and the New Testament is grounded entirely on this central event and its implications for human beings, particularly his church – and anticipates his return in the last days. In a way, this overarching story of the Bible is a bit like a road map: it gives us our bearings, and helps us to ask questions and look for landmarks, which indicate where we are in the story. 1 Samuel is a crucial part of this story, and as we open our Bibles to the first chapters of this powerful book, it’s important to work out where we are: where 1 Samuel fits in the overall story, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going. A brief background: after God’s promises and faithfulness to Abraham and his family, his dramatic and decisive rescue of Israel out of slavery in Egypt, the giving of God’s law, Israel’s forty years wandering in the wilderness, and their conquest of the promised land under Joshua’s (and ultimately God’s) leadership, we come to the period of the judges (found in the book of Judges). Judges provides the immediate backdrop to the story of 1 Samuel – a sobering story of Israel’s worsening idolatry and forgetfulness of God, who repeatedly raises up “judges” as leaders to rescue Israel from the hand of their enemies when they cry out to him – only for
17 them to forget God and fall back into sin all over again. The final verse of Judges says, “In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes” (21:25). It’s an ominous end to a book of Israel’s deepening darkness. And it raises the question of leadership over Israel – a theme that will dominate the book of 1 Samuel. For background to 1 Samuel, read Judges 2:11-23 (which provides something of a summary of the book of Judges), and Judges 21:25. Judges provides the overall backdrop to the opening events of 1 Samuel. A piece of much smaller-scale, but still important, background is also provided by the book of Ruth. Read Ruth 4:13-22 for background to the central character of David, who we’ll meet in 1 Samuel 16.
18 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
PRAYER FOR CROSS PRAYER FOR UNBELIEVING CULTURAL CONNECT FAMILY + FRIENDS PARTNERS
19 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE Unlike Israel, Hannah 1 Samuel 1:1-20 waits for God’s true king through her troubles. Jesus is the true King the world is waiting for.
DISCUSSION We sometimes really want things and feel we have to wait a long time for them. Hannah waited and longed for a child for many years. But through all that waiting Hannah stayed faithful to God, waiting and crying out to God for a son. She promised if her prayer was answered that she would give her ALL AGES ACTIVITY son into God’s service. When God gave Think about a time when you had to Hannah a son, she was overjoyed and wait patiently for something you really could have forgotten her promise but wanted. Maybe it was your birthday? again showed faithfulness to God by Maybe it was a holiday? keeping her promise. Why did you long for it? Many years later the king the whole How did you feel while you were world had been waiting for arrived – waiting? Jesus. He is the true king of the world and truly worth waiting for. How did you feel when you eventually received what you were waiting for? PRAYER IDEA Take turns around your family or Dear Lord, Thank you for the gift of growth group to share what you had to prayer so we can ask for your help in wait for and how you felt. our lives. Help us to be patient while we are waiting and stay faithful to you. And thank you that the thing we need most has already been provided – King Jesus. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
20 2SERVING THE KING BIG IDEA While God judges Israel’s leaders for sacrificing Israel for themselves, he is raising up a faithful priest who will sacrifice himself for others. Jesus is God’s ultimate king, priest, prophet, and sacrifice.
KEY VERSE “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
21 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 2:12-36 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
READ LEVITICUS 21:4-7 AND 4:1-3, 35 2. What were the priests of the LORD meant to be like, and what is their job? What is shocking about Eli’s sons?
3. As we journey through 1 Samuel, we’ll see themes from Hannah’s song (1 Samuel 2:1-10) being revisited and fulfilled. Where do you see this happening in this week’s passage? (Notice especially 2:3)
4. What do you think of Eli’s words to his sons in verses 23-25? Why do you think Eli and his house (family line) is ultimately judged by God (2:27-36)?
22 Eli is one of several ambiguous characters that we’ll meet in 1 Samuel. He doesn’t seem obviously wicked, but is a bit of a mixed bag. He tries to rebuke his sons, yet doesn’t put an end to the evil they’re committing (2:23-25). He lacked discernment towards Hannah, but then treated her kindly (1:12-18). Yet overall, his leadership is weak and ineffective. His speech has no effect on his sons, and he fails to deal with the evil they’re doing. By not decisively disciplining his sons, or removing them from the priesthood, he becomes a complicit bystander to their evil. And Israel suffers for it. Up ahead, in a wonderful contrast, we’ll see Jesus dealing firmly with Israel’s corrupted leadership – the priests, scribes, and Pharisees: rebuking them, but also acting sacrificially to replace them with a perfectly just and eternal leadership – his own. 5. Have there been times when you’ve seen evil or injustice, but haven’t dealt with it strongly enough (or when you’ve seen examples of this)?
6. How does the justice of Jesus teach and convict us? How does his justice and grace comfort us if we’ve been a victim, or a repentant perpetrator, of injustice in the past?
23 In this passage, we see God’s sovereignty clearly: he had determined to put Eli’s sons to death, and so they wouldn’t listen to Eli. However, we also see the reality of human responsibility: both Eli and his sons were held responsible for their actions. 7. Compare 2:25b and 2:29-34. How do you feel about this tension between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility? What does it teach you about God? (See Dig Deeper for a further discussion of this question)
8. As we read this story about Eli and his sons, the writer keeps reminding us of Hannah’s son, Samuel – who is growing up in the temple under Eli’s teaching (see 2:11, 18, 21, 26). Why do you think this is? What hope does Samuel give the reader, especially in contrast with the corrupt leadership of Israel?
9. Compare 1 Samuel 2:26 with Luke 2:52. How does Samuel point to a greater leader still to come?
10. Amidst the wickedness of Eli’s sons, and the judgment coming to Eli and his whole house, what hope is there? (See verse 35). How does this point us to Samuel within the story of 1 Samuel, but ultimately to Jesus?
24 HEART/HANDS READ HEBREWS 4:14 – 5:10 11. In light of Eli’s sons and their wickedness, when they were meant to be interceding before God for the people in their sin, how do you feel that Jesus is your great High Priest, who knows you by name, and lives forever to intercede for you?
12. God promises to raise up a faithful priest, “who will do according to what is in my heart and mind.” (1 Samuel 2:35) In what ways does Jesus show himself to be this high priest? How might this affect how you live and think and feel this week?
Because Jesus, our high priest, has redeemed us (the corrupt sinners), we are now described as a “holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:5) In light of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice to redeem us, we are now called to sacrificially serve and advocate for others, and to be ministers of God’s grace in Christ. 13. How might you, as a growth group as well as individually, live out of your “priestly status” in Christ this week? What might it look like for you to minister God’s grace to others?
25 DIG DEEPER: GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY AND HUMAN RESPONSIBILITY This passage throws up the difficult issue of God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. As we see Eli speaking to his sons, trying to convince them of the wickedness of their actions as priests, we notice that Eli’s sons don’t listen to him, because it was the Lord’s will to put them to death – and God holds Eli and his sons responsible for this. This tension, between God’s sovereignty and the responsibility of people for their sinful hearts and actions, is one that often makes us feel uncomfortable. It can make us feel uneasy, and make us think that maybe God is being “unfair” for holding people responsible for actions that he himself had pre-determined. However, there are a couple of key things we must realise. We must remember that, due to original sin and our inherited brokenness, human beings are inherently sinful, from the very start of their lives (Psalm 51:5). We don’t have a natural bent towards righteousness, but towards evil – and as such, none of us are deserving of God’s kindness or mercy. We must also be clear on the fact that God cannot be blamed for people’s corruption and hardness of heart. It is their own fault, and they cannot avoid the responsibility for their sin. In the case of Eli’s sons, John Woodhouse rightly observes, “Their hardness was both their own choice and God’s judgment on them for that choice.” The depth of their sin and wickedness meant that they were beyond repentance: only judgment was left. Their unwillingness to listen was itself part of God’s judgment on them for their sin, for which the blame rested solely upon them. Eli, similarly, knew what his sons were doing, and failed to put an end to their perverse and corrupt wickedness, and suddenly it was too late – only judgment remained. You can find other instances of the tension between God’s sovereignty and human responsibility in the exodus from Egypt (Exodus 7-14), where we see Pharaoh hardening his own heart against God and his people, while God also hardens his heart; and
26 also in God’s judgment of Assyria, whom he uses to effect judgment on his sinful people Israel (see Isaiah 10:5-18). We also see it, perhaps most powerfully, in God’s judgment of those who crucified his Son, albeit all according to God’s own purpose and plan (see Peter’s speech in Acts 2:22-39). Check out these passages, and if you’d like to wrestle further with this important question, these blog posts could be a good place to start: https://www.ligonier.org/blog/what-relationship- between-divine-sovereignty-and-human- responsibility/
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/melissa- kruger/the-unlikely-friendship-between-gods- sovereignty-and-mans-responsibility/
27 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
PRAYER FOR CROSS PRAYER FOR UNBELIEVING CULTURAL CONNECT FAMILY + FRIENDS PARTNERS
28 29 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE While God judges Israel’s 1 Samuel 2:12-21 leaders for serving YOU WILL NEED themselves, he is raising A food treat large enough up a faithful priest who to share between the will serve others forever. group such as a cake or chocolate
DISCUSSION In the bible reading, the sons of Eli served God selfishly. They greedily took better meat than they were entitled to. We often also forget to serve sacrificially and focus only on ALL AGES ACTIVITY ourselves. Ask someone in the family or growth In comparison, God sent Jesus as the group to cut up the treat into pieces to ultimate faithful priest who serves serve out to everyone. sacrificially. Samuel was an example of Tell that person to serve themselves a a faithful priest, but the only perfectly piece first, but wait to eat it. faithful priest would be Jesus. We should try to follow the example of Invite everyone else to choose a piece Jesus, not of Eli’s sons. for the server to give them and also wait to eat it. PRAYER IDEA Have a chat about why you chose the Dear Lord, Thank you for sending piece of food you have. Jesus to show us how we can serve Did you think about the size of the sacrificially. piece when you were choosing it? Help us to follow His example. Who chose the smallest piece? Thank In Jesus name we pray, Amen. them for not being selfish in their choice. Who chose the biggest piece? Remind them to try to put others first in future.
30 3 LISTENING TO THE KING BIG IDEA Samuel listens to God’s word, so lives for his purposes. Israel don’t listen to God so try to use God for their purposes. Jesus listens to God’s word and brings us into God’s purpose. KEY VERSE “And the Lord said to Samuel: ‘See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears about it tingle.” - 1 Samuel 3:11
31 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
32 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 3:1 – 4:11 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
2. “In those days, the word of the Lord was rare” (3:1). What’s significant about this? Why might this be the case? (Think about the background to the story from the book of Judges, and what we’ve seen in 1 Samuel so far)
3. The Lord calls Samuel at night, and speaks to him. In light of 1 Samuel 3:1, what is significant about this calling of Samuel, and the narrator’s comments in 3:19-21? How do Samuel and Eli respond to God’s words?
4. “Samuel did not yet know the Lord.” (3:7) He was living with and learning under a priest in Israel, and yet didn’t know the Lord. How does this make you feel? Why do you think this might have been the case?
33 5. Eli, poignantly, calls Samuel, “my son” (verse 6). How is Samuel a stark contrast to Eli’s own sons? And what is Samuel doing in this chapter, which Eli’s sons, and most of Israel, have failed to do? (See especially 3:10)
6. What do you think about how Israel is treating the ark of God in 4:3? How can we do the same thing?
7. Why do you think Israel was defeated? (Can you see any dark irony in who was carrying the ark into battle (4:4b)?)
READ 1 SAMUEL 5 8. What do you think and feel about this passage? What’s your reaction?
9. Remember the end of Hannah’s song: 1 Samuel 2:10. How is this powerfully and dramatically playing out in this part of the story?
34 HEART/HANDS In 1 Samuel 5:6, 9, 12, we see the Philistines afflicted with a plague of tumours. Interestingly, they already knew and believed that the God of Israel was capable of this before they acted to defeat Israel and steal the ark (see 4:8 – a reference to God’s actions in Exodus 7-12). They knew about God, but didn’t know God. They’d listened to what they’d heard about him, but they didn’t worship or obey him. 10. What might this teach us? And, in light of Jesus and his mission, how should this affect our hearts, our lives, and our witness to others?
While this passage has an air of the ridiculous, as we watch Dagon fall over in his own temple, and the Philistines in a panic, it also conveys a deep sense of gravity as we glimpse God’s power and holiness. This is our God, who, with no help from his people, effortlessly brings other gods to the ground, and wreaks fear and chaos among his enemies. He is a God who exposes idols for what they are (Psalm 115:1-11; Isaiah 46:5-11). The same God who is endlessly gracious and patient with Israel could similarly wipe them out in a day for their awful faithlessness. Our God is powerful, awesome, and entirely beyond our grasp. 1 Samuel 5 teaches us the fear of the Lord, as we realise that the one we most fear is also the only one to whom we can run for shelter, in Christ. 11. Do you think more about God’s kindness and grace than his power and holiness? Why do we need to keep both in view?
35 In these chapters, Israel doesn’t listen or pay attention (4:3), Hophni and Phinehas still don’t listen (4:4, 11 – cf 2:25), and the Philistines listen but don’t obey (4:8-9; 5:1-12). Samuel alone is listening to God (3:10). Samuel is a shadow of the One who truly listens to and obeys God’s word (Luke 2:46-49; 4:1-13; John 12:49-50). We, too, are called to really listen to our God who reveals himself through his word – and not to our own thoughts about who we think he is. 12. Read 2 Timothy 3:14-17. How can you be reading the Bible – on your own, and with others – to really listen to God, and be changed by his word? What might be one small step forward for you this week?
If there’s one thing that 1 Samuel 3-5 teaches us, it’s that God is utterly in control. He is working out his purposes even now, in Christ, and we can’t put him in a box, or hope to manipulate him. If we truly believe this in our hearts, we can’t help but pray. And we will long to grow in wisdom. Wisdom which knows what to pray for, where our prayers are increasingly shaped by God’s concerns, and by a deepening understanding of who he is, and his purposes. 13. How are you going at praying? How might your prayers be shaped by Scripture, and by the concerns of God, who is continuing to work his purposes out in the world today?
36 DIG DEEPER: THE WEIGHT OF GLORY When you think about God’s glory, what do you think about? I wonder if many of us think about God’s glory as something incredibly beautiful, something that fixes our gaze, and draws us to him – like a stunning sunset, or a spectacular mountain view. That’s why we use the word “glorious” to describe these things! And it is undoubtedly true that God’s glory is something breathtakingly beautiful. Yet, in 1 Samuel 5, God’s glory is utterly terrifying. This point is emphasised through a particular use of language in chapters 4 and 5. In 1 Samuel 4:19-22, we’re told that when Phinehas’ wife hears the news of the captured ark of God and her husband and father-in-law’s death, she gives birth to a son. She names her baby Ichabod, which means “the glory has departed,” or “where is the glory?” In an interesting twist, in the original language, this word “glory” is the same word as “heavy” – as we read in chapter 5 that “the hand of the Lord was heavy” against the Philistines (1 Samuel 5:6, 11). The ark of God had departed from Israel, and they were asking, “where is the glory?” Well, the glory of God was in Philistine territory, and it was less like a stunning sunset than it was a white-hot ball of fire, raging against the Philistines everywhere it went. The glory of God was terrifying. The Philistines were panicked (5:9, 11). They were truly feeling the weight of God’s glory, as his hand was heavy upon them in judgment. Seeing the weighty glory of God in such a way should call us to fear the Lord. But, for those of us who belong to Jesus, fear of the Lord doesn’t cause us to flee from him, but rather, to run towards him. For, we recognise that this powerful God we meet in 1 Samuel is the same God who has shown us incredible mercy in Christ, and he is the only one we can run to for protection, in Christ’s name, against his own judgment of us. Read 2 Corinthians 4:13-18. Paul tells us that now, in Christ, we can live for the glory of God, and that God is preparing a “weight of glory” for us – that, incredibly, we might share in his glory. How does this make you feel? What does this teach you about God?
37 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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38 39 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE When God speaks, 1 Samuel 3 Samuel listens and lives his way. God speaks to us through Jesus and we follow him
Discuss how Samuel listened to God and obeyed him. God continued to speak to Samuel and used him to speak to His people. Samuel was a faithful & active listener to God’s word, especially compared to Eli’s family and the rest of Israel. When God speaks, Samuel listens and ALL AGES ACTIVITY lives his way. God speaks to us through Secret Sounds. Play some sound clips Jesus and we follow him. We need to and see who in your family or growth understand that God speaks to us as group can guess them. we read the bible. We read the bible to (One option is to use the Spotify understand and to follow Jesus. playlist at www.goo.gl/2Qknei) PRAYER IDEA Discuss how listening well is Thank God for giving us his word the important. Discuss how listening well bible. helps you to truly understand. Ask him to help you ‘listen well’ as you DISCUSSION: read it and try to follow him. Listen to an audio bible reading of 1 Samuel 3. (We recommend the YouVersion bible app, and the NIV UK audio) Who did Samuel think he was hearing at first? Who was Samuel actually hearing? What changed when Samuel realised who he was listening to?
40 4 WORSHIPPING THE KING BIG IDEA Israel’s request for a King like the nations is the decisive moment in turning their hearts from worshiping God. Jesus is the true King for the nations who turns our heart to worship God.
KEY VERSE “And the Lord told him: ‘Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected me as their king. As they have done from the day I brought them up out of Egypt until this day, forsaking me and serving other gods, so they are doing to you.” - 1 Samuel 8:7-8
41 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
42 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 7:2-17 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
2. It seems that twenty years passed since the ark of the Lord arrived at Kiriath Jearim, and then all the house of Israel lamented after the Lord. How is this similar to the pattern of Israel’s sin and repentance in the book of Judges? (See an example in Judges 3:7-9)
3. We’ve already seen Israel suffer a crushing defeat at the hands of the Philistines – with their defeat linked to the corrupt and inept leadership of Eli and his sons. Yet, what do we discover is the broader problem in Israel (verses 3-4)?
43 Israel’s idolatry is nothing new – it is their great and abiding sin. Even after God faithfully led them all the way to the promised land, the book of Judges tells of Israel’s terrible downward spiral of sin and forgetfulness of God – and in particular, their sin of idolatry. It’s a similar story throughout the story of 1 and 2 Kings, where both Israel and many of the Israelite kings continue to worship other gods, falling into deeper and deeper sin and unrepentance – all the way into inevitable exile from God and his land. Seeing hints of it here in 1 Samuel is sobering, but not surprising. 4. What does Samuel do for Israel? How is he acting as the faithful priest and prophet that they have long needed?
5. How does the Lord respond to Israel’s repentance and Samuel’s intercession? What is particularly significant about what the Lord does for Israel in 7:10-14? (Compare with what God tells Israel in Deuteronomy 20:1-4)
READ 1 SAMUEL 8 6. In many ways, Samuel has been a glimmer of hope in the darkness of Israel; the fulfilment of God’s promises. Yet, what is striking, and familiar, about 8:3? (Compare with 2:12-23)
God promised to raise up a faithful priest (2:35), and we will see this partially fulfilled in Samuel. But how is 1 Samuel 8:3 a first hint that we might need to keep waiting for the ultimate fulfilment of God’s promise of a true and faithful Priest?
44 7. Compare Israel’s reason for requesting a king (8:5 and 8:20) with what the Lord has just done for them (7:10-14). What’s so offensive about their request?
8. How does God respond to their request? What is striking, and sobering, about this?
HEART/HANDS 9. Israel wanted a king that reflected their own hearts and desires – not God’s heart. In what ways do you see the same attitude in your own life? How does this story of Israel’s request challenge our hearts and our desires?
10. As the Son of God, Jesus shows himself to be the true, faithful Israel. How does Jesus show a complete reversal of Israel’s attitude in his life, and his death? What hope does this give us, as those redeemed by Jesus?
45 Jesus was a king who was not like the nations – a king “not of this world”. He was rejected as Israel’s king in the same way that God was rejected as their king here in 1 Samuel 8. (See John 18:36 and 19:14-16 for examples) 11. Are you worshipping Jesus as your King – the one who is Lord over your whole life? We all worship someone or something: who or what other “kings” or leaders are you tempted to follow?
Israel was demanding a king from Samuel, and from their God. Often, our demands before God reveal our idols. Our idols are the things in life that are “non-negotiables” for us; things we feel we must have, cannot do without, or would be devastated to lose. 12. What is a “non-negotiable” for you? What would it look like to lay this idol at the foot of the cross – praying instead, along with Jesus, “Your will be done”? (Matthew 6:10; Luke 22:42)
46 DIG DEEPER: ISRAEL AND HER KINGS The theme of kingship is a rich and pervasive theme in Scripture; some consider it among the central biblical theological themes that unite the story of the whole Bible. Yet, as we see here in 1 Samuel 8, it has something of a chequered history throughout Israel’s story. On the basis of Israel’s request, they will be appointed their first king in the history of the Bible. Yet, this isn’t the first mention of kingship in the Bible. The reality of kingship among Israel is anticipated before this point, in passages such as Genesis 35:11; 36:31; 49:10; Numbers 24:7-9 and Deuteronomy 28:36. Perhaps the most important passage that deals with the kingship of Israel before it happens is in Deuteronomy 17:14-20. This short passage predicts precisely the request that Israel will make in 1 Sam. 8:4, 20, and contains the laws by which Israel’s future kings are to live and rule. It presents a positive view of kingship over Israel, requiring Israel’s kings to rule under God himself. The kings of Israel are expected to avoid sins of overindulgence and power, and to read, know, and obey the word of the Lord, to ensure that his kingly reign is one characterised by humble, righteous, servant-leadership. So, why was it so wrong for Israel to ask for a king? Even though it was an event clearly predicted by God, it was still a shamefully sinful moment for them. They rejected the Lord as King over them, the very thing that had set them apart as God’s chosen people among the nations; instead, asking for a king so they might be “like all the other nations.” And in the end, most of Israel’s kings fell dismally short of the Deuteronomy 17 vision, and even the best kings couldn’t be what Israel so desperately needed. Read Deuteronomy 17:14-20. How do you see these kingly requirements fulfilled in Jesus’ life? Search for the term “king” in the book of psalms on biblegateway.com or a bible app, and write down what you learn about God as king. How does Psalm 2 in particular anticipate Jesus as king?
47 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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48 49 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE Israel turns from 1 Samuel 8 worshipping God and YOU WILL NEED asks for a king just like the other nations. It’s through Junk mail brochures Jesus we can worship God. advertising things younger children might want
PRIMARY ACTIVITY DISCUSSION: Look through a junk mail brochure The nation of Israel turned away from and find something that you would worshipping God and wanted a king really like to have. so they could be just like all the other Why do you want it? Do lots of other nations. They worshipped the idea of kids have it? ‘fitting in’ more than they worshipped God. Do you just want things so you can be like everyone else? Are you We shouldn’t be frightened to be worshipping God or worshipping different and stand out from the crowd fitting in with other people? for worshipping Jesus. HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITY PRAYER IDEA Think about something you want Dear Lord, that lots of other kids your age Thank you for the many wonderful have. Do you want it just to be like things you have given us to enjoy in everyone else? What does this tell this world. Help us to remember to about what you are worshipping? Are worship only you. you worshipping fitting in with other In Jesus name we pray, Amen. people instead of worshipping God?
50 5 CROWNING THE KING BIG IDEA The elevation of Saul is the crowning moment of Israel’s sin. The crucifixion of Jesus is both the crowning moment of the world’s sin and the great reversal where God’s true king deals with the sin of the world. KEY VERSE “But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your disasters and calamities. And you have said, ‘No, appoint a king over us.’ So now present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes and clans.” - 1 Samuel 10:19a
51 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
52 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 9 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
2. What’s your impression of Saul so far? What do you notice about how Saul relates to others (for example: his father, his servant, Samuel) – both positively and negatively?
3. The events of chapter 9 are soaked in drama and providence. Who is in control here? Why is this important, especially in light of the people’s demand for a king?
In 1 Samuel 9:27, we see that, despite Israel’s continued sin, and their recent rejection of God, he continues to speak to them. The word of God is still being spoken – a precious thing. (Optional: See Amos 8:11-12 for a stark picture of the absence of God’s word) 4. How is this an encouragement to you, especially in the light of Jesus, through whom God has ultimately spoken, and continues to speak to us today? (Hebrews 1:1-2)
53 READ 1 SAMUEL 10 5. What’s your impression of Saul’s leadership in these few chapters? What do you think about what he has done and said (and not done and said)?
6. We’ve been told at least twice (9:2; 10:23) about Saul’s physical appearance. Why might this be significant?
We’re told that Saul’s home is Gibeah (10:10, 26). Gibeah has the dark honour of being the place where the greatest atrocity in Israel’s history was committed – and it took place in relatively recent memory (Judges 19:16-30). 7. What might we be thinking as readers, hearing that Saul is from Gibeah?
After Samuel has gathered all Israel together, he casts lots to reveal to Israel their new, requested king. This scene is strongly reminiscent of the “sin of Achan” incident in the book of Joshua, in which all Israel is gathered, and lots are cast to determine who has sinned against God and Israel by taking valuables from amongst the spoil of their recent victory (Joshua 7:16-21). While the similarities end once Saul is selected, the re-enactment of such a memorable scene should have prompted Israel to realise their own sin, which is at the heart of this process. And it’s an early hint that the young Saul, like Achan, would be a king who takes.
54 In 1 Samuel 10:25, after Saul is selected, the “rights and duties” of kingship are laid out. These “rights and duties” are a picture of God’s patience and mercy towards his people. Through them, he provides a way for kings to have the best chance of honouring God and leading the people well, and for the people to be protected. 8. How do you feel that God extends this kind of patience and mercy also towards you, as his son or daughter in Christ?
HEART/HANDS Saul so far is showing himself to be mild-mannered and harmless, but somewhat passive and fearful – for example, his hiding amongst the baggage, despite being the tallest guy in Israel (1 Samuel 10:22)! Whilst not being a bad start for a king, it’s not a great one either. 9. How does Jesus show Saul’s humility, yet also genuine courage and wisdom, which prompts him to stand, act, and speak rightly (as we see throughout the Gospels)?
10. Are there ways in which you share Saul’s passivity and fear? How does Jesus give us the courage and security to be active and courageous when we should be?
55 In these chapters, and throughout 1 Samuel, we see that, whether things appear good or bad, the word of God is still at work, bringing about God’s purposes. This moment in Israel’s history felt like a victory for them, while appearing negative and sin-fuelled to Samuel and us as readers. In spite of this, it is also clear that God is still bringing about his purposes even through his people’s sin. The word of God cannot be thwarted. 11. How are these realities clearly seen as we remember Jesus upon the cross?
12. How does it affect your beliefs, feelings, decisions, and actions, knowing and trusting that God’s purposes cannot be frustrated, and that his word is being worked out in all things?
13. Make a list of the places or times in your daily and weekly life where you tend not to think about Jesus at all. What could you do in those places and times to intentionally remember, and to think about Jesus as your King – to talk to him, remember what he says, and seek to honour him?
56 DIG DEEPER: SAUL AND THE SPIRIT Saul’s anointing as king of Israel in 1 Samuel 10:1 is a significant moment. This is particularly evident when Samuel proclaims, “Has not the Lord anointed you ruler over his inheritance?” This indicates that, although Samuel might be physically pouring the oil, it’s the Lord doing the anointing. Equally significant is the related event that follows – the rushing of the Holy Spirit upon Saul. The Holy Spirit coming upon a leader is not foreign in Israel. In the book of Judges, God sends his Spirit upon several of the leaders that he raises up on behalf of his people: Othniel (Judges 3:9-10), Gideon (6:34), Jephthah (11:29), and Samson (13:24-25; 14:19; 15:14). In each one of these instances, the Holy Spirit is particularly given to empower these leaders to defeat Israel’s enemies, delivering Israel, and leading them to victory. However, when Saul is empowered by the Holy Spirit, he prophesies, with the only apparent result being a degree of confusion as to whether Saul is amongst the prophets or not (1 Samuel 10:10-13). John Woodhouse suggests that Samuel’s somewhat cryptic predictions in 10:5-8 are key in understanding what might be going on. Firstly, Samuel notes that there is a garrison of the Philistines at Gibeath-Elohim (or Gibeah) – indicating the Philistines have alarmingly gained ground into Israelite territory. Then, amongst other details, Samuel tells Saul that the Spirit will rush upon him, and he should “do whatever your hand finds to do, for God is with you.” After this, Samuel will come to meet Saul at Gilgal after seven days. Cryptic! Woodhouse suggests that “do whatever your hand finds to do” doesn’t mean “do whatever you like,” but rather, that Saul has been appointed a task – namely, to act against Israel’s enemies, the Philistines: the task for which he has been empowered by the Holy Spirit. There is a precedence for the use of this term in Judges 9:33, where it clearly means to take military action. It appears likely that Saul himself understood what was meant by this, for Saul and Jonathan his son finally defeated this garrison of the
57 Philistines in 1 Samuel 13:2-4, after which Saul waits for seven days (1 Samuel 13:8) – as appointed by Samuel in 1 Samuel 10:8. But even though he most likely understood Samuel, Saul did not initially obey. We aren’t sure why – it had certainly been an intense, and no doubt intimidating, time for young Saul, but it doesn’t bode well for his passivity and disobedience as Israel’s king. Look up Luke 3:21-22. Jesus’ baptism, with the Holy Spirit descending upon him, is his own anointing and empowering for ministry. In the story that unfolds from this point onwards in Luke, how does Jesus show himself to be a contrast to Saul, in the faithfulness of his kingship and ministry?
58 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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59 BIG IDEA YOU WILL NEED The crown of Saul looks • 2 round paper plates like a win, but it’s actually • Scissors a loss, caused by sin. The • Textas/crayons crown of Jesus on the cross • Glue and Blu tack looks like a loss, but it’s • Brown Sticks, leaves actually the win over sin. and twigs from the garden BIBLE PASSAGE • Items to decorate a 1 Samuel 10:14-26 crown – tinfoil, beads, sequins, or glitter etc
ALL AGES ACTIVITY DISCUSSION Plate 1- King Saul’s Crown A Youth pastor noted a boy looking a • Draw 4 lines crossing evenly through bit troubled, so he asked him what the the middle of a plate in a star shape problem was. The boy said that he was • Cut along the lines, not cutting right struggling to decide between going to to the edge of the plate – leave the watch a cricket game with friends or rim uncut going on the church camp. The Pastor • With the plate upside down fold up said to the boy “you will know what the cut corners to form a crown to choose once you have decided who • Colour/paint and decorate the crown you want to put in charge of your life.” with jewels, tinfoil, beads, ribbon or We all face similar choices every day sequins etc and have to decide who we follow too. Plate 2 – Jesus’s Crown In the reading above, the people of • Cut the center of the plate out Israel had forgotten who was in charge • Turn the plate over and colour or and begged the prophet Samuel for a paint it brown and using the glue or king. God allowed Samuel to choose Blu Tack stick on twigs or leaves to Saul as their king even though this was form a crown of thorns. a rejection of Him.
60 Saul looked and acted the part of a PRAYER IDEA king – he was handsome and taller Pass the crown of thorns around to than other men and he gained wealth each person in your family/growth and power as the King of Israel. The group as you pray. As you get the sad thing was that it was not long crown thank Jesus for something before he abused his power and did that you are grateful for about him. many bad things, leading the people The oldest person can then close the of Israel even further away from God. prayer. The crowning of Saul looks like a win, but it was actually a loss. Later in the bible we learn about another king that God sent, his own son Jesus. At first glance Jesus was not as impressive as Saul and he died wearing a crown of thorns. Jesus on the cross looks like a loss but it was actually a win as his death leads us directly back to God’s favour by gaining us forgiveness. Which of the two crowns you made is the one to choose? As a group discuss choices you have made how the choice of the crown you follow may influence you.
61 OBEYING6 THE KING BIG IDEA God judges Saul and rejects him as king because he disobeyed. Israel, who asked for a king just like the nations, has become just like the nations. Jesus is the true king who obeys God, and brings people from all nations into obedience. KEY VERSE “But Samuel replied: ‘Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.” - 1 Samuel 15:22 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
63 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 13 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
Israel had attacked the Philistine outpost, and in response, the Philistines muster a massive army to fight against Israel (13:5). The Israelites are terrified – trembling behind Saul, and hiding and scattering in fear (13:6-8). Amidst all this, Saul waited seven days for Samuel. To any ordinary bystander, Saul’s actions in 13:9 likely seemed understandable, even sensible! But in light of the word of God, it was folly and disobedience. And God pronounces his judgment on Saul: the kingdom will be taken away from him (1 Samuel 13:13-14). 2. Most of us, if we examine our hearts and our faith, can relate to Saul. What do Saul’s actions teach us about faith in the promises of God? What do they teach us about ourselves? What do they teach us about God?
3. 1 Samuel 13:14 is more literally translated, “The Lord has sought out a man according to his own heart.” How is this, importantly, slightly different to the usual translation, “The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart”? Whose “heart” is in view here?
64 READ 1 SAMUEL 15:1-29 4. In both chapters 13 and 15, what is the overarching thing that Saul has done wrong? Why do you think Saul disobeyed? (See 1 Samuel 10:8 and 15:3 for Samuel’s (ie God’s) commands, and 13:8-10 and 15:7-9, respectively, for Saul’s actions)
5. How do you think Saul is feeling by the end of verse 29? How do you feel about Saul at this point in the story?
6. According to Samuel (15:22-23), what pleases God? In light of these verses, how is Jesus the truly obedient King, and why is that important for us?
Obedience to God and his word isn’t always easy, and is often costly. It requires a personal relationship with God, and a deep and abiding faith in who he is, and his perfect record of faithfulness in the past. Saul knew this cost of obedience, and considered it too high. Jesus also knew the cost of obedience, yet showed perfect faith and obedience, even when it cost him his life. 7. Look up Luke 9:21-22 and 22:41-44. How do you feel about Jesus’ faith and obedience for us – at such a cost?
65 HEART/HANDS 8. We often don’t talk much about obedience – perhaps because it’s uncomfortable, or because it seems legalistic, or like justification by works and not grace. Do you think much about obedience to God in your life? Do you think obedience matters in the life of one saved by grace in Christ? Why or why not?
We can find it hard to have obedient faith in God – for various reasons. Perhaps, because faith and obedience are costly to us in other ways. Perhaps, because we don’t actually know what God’s word says about something. Perhaps, because we struggle to believe that what God says is true or trustworthy. 9. When do you find it hard to have obedient faith in God? Why?
In 15:15, Saul betrays how distant he is from God. He tells Samuel he saved the livestock to sacrifice to “your God”. Samuel’s God, not Saul’s own. That distance means he doesn’t care enough about God to know what God actually wants. We are more likely to obey when we want to be close to God, and when we know him enough to know what pleases him. 10. How could you grow in knowing God and his will, and to act out of real faith and obedience even when it hurts? How could others help you do this? How could you help others?
66 Sometimes we can, like Saul, value creativity of worship over true, obedient worship – surprising as that may sound. Consider, for example, the inconsistency of destroying all your old secular music albums as an act of worship, when you haven’t actually been to church regularly for months. Or concluding that you’re serving x number of hours per week in various ways, and so it doesn’t matter whether you’re giving generously and sacrificially or not. God has revealed to us who we are to be, and what we are to do as a result. Obedience and faith can often look different in different circumstances, but we can’t neglect broad responsibilities to which God calls us, especially whilst justifying ourselves with something he never asked of us, and expecting him to be pleased with our initiative. God loves obedience more than sacrifice. 11. Do you ever choose creative “obedience” over true obedience? How can you cultivate an open and humble heart before your Father as he speaks through his word, and a willingness to be challenged to deeper and more joyful obedience?
67 Saul struggled all along with the sin of people-pleasing. Jesus, thankfully, didn’t. He listened to people, but there was only one voice that he listened to and unswervingly obeyed – his heavenly Father’s. All the way to dying in our place for our people-pleasing and fear of man. His death and resurrection has given us a real and abiding security in him that means we can die to our people- pleasing tendencies. We can be compelled and propelled by God: by who we are in Jesus Christ, and what he has saved us for – rather than being compelled and propelled by others: who they say we are, and what we need to do to gain or keep their approval. 12. What motivates you to try to please people? How can your new identity in Christ help you to form new habits of obedience to God alone: to live the life of freedom and joyful service for which Christ has saved you?
68 DIG DEEPER: GOD’S EMOTIONS AND OURS In 1 Samuel 15:11, God says: “I regret that I have made Saul king, because he has turned away from me and has not carried out my instructions.” Then, in verse 29 of the same chapter, Samuel says of God: “He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a human being, that he should change his mind.” In the same chapter, we read that God regrets what he has done, but also that he isn’t a human being, that he should have regrets! What does this mean in terms of understanding God? There are a few key things to grasp in thinking through this tension, all of which are evident from this passage. Firstly, God is not like us. We are made in his image, but God is otherwise radically other to us. In his amazing love and kindness, he has chosen to reveal himself to us, but there is only so much we can grasp about the infinite God of the universe. We do well to adopt a posture of humility, patience, and gratitude for God’s accommodation to us as we ponder this deep question. Secondly, God clearly feels real emotions: a real sense of regret – perhaps of grief and anger – over Saul. God tells us elsewhere that he experiences a range of emotions, including anger (Deuteronomy 9:22), compassion (Judges 2:18), grief (Psalm 78:40), jealousy (Exodus 34:14), and joy (Isaiah 62:5). Jesus himself displays a range of emotions: he weeps (John 11:35), has compassion (Mark 6:34), and experiences anguish (Luke 22:44). These emotions show us that God is a personal, living God, who is not detached in his sovereignty, but intimately involved with his creation, in a way we can hardly fathom. This occurrence with Saul was part of his knowledge and plan, but he remains engaged with his creatures and his unfolding story, shown in his divine emotions. And thirdly, as Samuel says, God is not a human being, and his regret is not like our regret. Our emotions and reactions are profoundly human. We are not sovereign, and so we can be affected, willingly or unwillingly, by the world around us. God, however, is utterly sovereign, and all events are within his knowledge and under his control. He isn’t affected by the world as we are; his emotions are always righteous and appropriate, and are within his will and volition.
69 As such, God’s emotions are real – as real as ours, if not more so. Yet, they aren’t the result of being “acted upon” by the world or by his creatures, as ours often are. This gives us reasons upon reasons to praise our beautiful, sovereign Father, who is not capricious and changeable, and who loves us deeply and steadfastly. How is this profoundly good news for us – that ours is a personal God who has real emotions, yet cannot be affected or moved or changed by us, outside of his sovereign knowledge and purposes?
70 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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71 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE God judges Saul and 1 Samuel 15:1-29 rejects him as king YOU WILL NEED because he disobeyed. Jesus is the true king who Squares of paper for obeys God, and brings us origami & sticky tape into obedience. (for high schoolers)
because Saul disobeyed God’s word, through Samuel God now rejects Saul as king. He is going to give the kingdom to a better king. And while at first that better king might look like David, in the end the best king PRIMARY ACTIVITY is Jesus. He is the king who obeyed God always, even when it meant he Play the game Simon Says. Kids need would die on the cross and rise again. to listen well and obey what you say, Jesus’ obedience is good news for us. but only when Simon says. If Simon It means we can now be part of God’s doesn’t say an action they are out for kingdom. So because of what Jesus that round. has done we should be so thankful HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITY that we try and obey God too. When do you find it hard to obey God? Search on YouTube for “Origami – How to make a simple lovely heart”. Get PRAYER IDEA everyone in the family or growth group Dear Lord to watch the video first. Then hand out paper squares and see if they have Thank you that Jesus fully obeyed listened well enough to remember and you, even to death on a cross. Thank obey the instructions. you that we can now be part of your kingdom, with Jesus as our king. We’re DISCUSSION: sorry for the times that we don’t obey Watch the Bible story for today on your word. Help us listen to your word YouTube. Search for “Samuel Rebukes and obey, just like our king Jesus did. King Saul – Superbook”. In Jesus name, Amen Saul disobeyed God, and this wasn’t the first time (see 1 Samuel 13). So
72 7SEEING THE KING BIG IDEA Proud Saul, the king after Israel’s heart, is rejected for the humble David, the king after God’s own heart. In Jesus, we see the king in whom God’s heart delights.
KEY VERSE “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’” - 1 Samuel 16:7
73 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
74 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 16:1-13 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
2. Saul was tall and impressive – the king the people requested and celebrated. How does the choosing of David as king contrast with how Saul was chosen? (See 1 Samuel 16:6-12)
1 Samuel 16:7 more literally says, “For the Lord sees not as man sees, for man sees according to the eyes, but the Lord sees according to the heart.” In other words, there are two different ways of seeing: man sees with his eyes, but God sees with his heart. David is the man upon whom God has set his heart, according to his purpose. As John Woodhouse puts it, this is speaking more “about the place the man has in God’s heart, rather than the place God has in the man’s heart.” 3. What important lesson do we learn here about God’s sight and ours? How does this contrast with the height and impressiveness of Saul, and even Jesse’s eldest son (16:6)?
75 4. Look up Ruth 4:13-22. What is significant about Jesse, and his son David, their family origins, and God’s promises surrounding them?
(Background: 1 Samuel 17 begins with the Philistines gathering their armies against Israel. The conflict is particularly focused on a “champion” of the Philistines – a hugely tall man, Goliath, who comes out to threaten a fearful Israel, challenging them to send someone to fight with him. David has come to bring food to his three eldest brothers in the conflict, and hears Goliath’s threats.) READ 1 SAMUEL 17:24-58 5. Here, David shows himself to be a strong kingly, messianic figure – one who points to a greater coming King; another Anointed One who would come in David’s line. Pick one of the following and discuss:
- Compare the hometown of David, and the birthplace of Jesus (1 Samuel 17:12, 58 and Luke 2:4. See also Micah 5:2). What is the significance of this?
- Compare David’s saying, “Do not be afraid, I will fight for you” (1 Samuel 17:32 – paraphrased) with Exodus 14:13-14 and Luke 2:10-11, and consider the implications.
- Compare 1 Samuel 17:34 with Luke 15:4.
76 6. What is David’s concern about Goliath, and how is it driving his actions? (17:26, 45) How does David’s faith and action contrast with Saul’s?
God delights in using the weak things of the world to shame the strong. We saw this celebrated in Hannah’s song (1 Samuel 2:8), and in David’s great victory against Goliath – and we will most powerfully see this reality in Jesus Christ and his church (1 Corinthians 1:18, 27). 7. How does this reality about God secure our hope in Christ?
8. What do you think about David’s speech to Goliath in 17:45-47? Which part/s of his speech particularly grip your heart?
9. 1 Samuel 17:45-47 has been called the “gospel of David. ” What do these verses remind or teach us about God? How do they remind us of the gospel of Jesus Christ, which is anticipated by these events?
HEART/HANDS 10. Who do you identify with in this story? Why?
77 A common application of this story has been “Be like David – strong and courageous. What are the “Goliaths” you have to face in your life?” And it’s not a bad thing to look at David’s courage and faith as a good example for us! However, when you look at the details of the story, and the wider context, it’s more appropriate to see David as a Jesus-figure… and we are more like the Israelites. Weak, frightened, sinful people, legitimately terrified in the face of a great enemy (sin and death), and who desperately need a Saviour. David approached Goliath, the fearsome enemy of Israel, “in the name of the Lord.” Jesus Christ was the true King who also came “in the name of the Lord” (Luke 19:37-38). He faced up to our greatest, and truly fearful enemies (Satan, sin, and death), and defeated them. 11. Because of Christ’s victory, we now live, act, speak, and pray, “in the name of Christ Jesus” (Colossians 3:17). How does this shape your heart and attitude to all that life throws your way?
Look at Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:15-19a. He prays that we would see as God sees. 12. What does it mean, in light of Jesus, to see as God sees? How can Paul’s prayer shape your prayers together as a growth group, and throughout this coming week?
78 David’s words, “so that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel” are echoed all through the Old Testament, and expand out into the mission of Jesus Christ and his church. The whole world is the Lord’s. Jesus’ death and resurrection won the greatest victory, and we now live so that the world might know that he is Lord. 13. How should this inform the purpose and vision of your life as a disciple and pilgrim here on earth? What might that mean for your life personally, and together as a growth group?
DIG DEEPER: SAUL, DAVID, AND PREDESTINATION It’s amazing how just a couple of words, or a slightly different turn of phrase, can make a big difference! And sometimes, a deeply important difference. Last week, we saw that 1 Samuel 13:14 is better translated, “The Lord has sought out a man according to his own heart.” This week, we’ve seen that 1 Samuel 16:7 is better translated, “For the Lord sees not as man sees, for man sees according to the eyes, but the Lord sees according to the heart.” You might wonder why it’s necessary to make such a point of this. The reason this matters is that the usual translation of these verses doesn’t quite capture what the original text is saying, and it changes the meaning in a critical way. The usual translation of 1 Samuel 13:14 says, “The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart” (13:14). Upon a first reading, this sounds like God has been looking for a man who has a heart which is modelled upon his (God’s). Is this the criteria for God’s king? Must have a heart like God’s. It’s all about David’s heart. Is David’s heart, character, and virtue good enough? And we conclude that David must have a heart like God’s heart, and that’s why God sought him out. In reality, the text says that God is seeking out a man according to his (God’s) own heart. It’s actually not about David at all. It’s about God’s heart:
79 God’s will, God’s purposes, the man of God’s choosing – as contrasted with Saul, who is the king of Israel’s choosing. David didn’t earn God’s favour by the virtue of his heart or any other means. God freely gave his favour to David by setting his heart upon him. It’s a similar story with 1 Samuel 16:7. When the usual translation says, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart,” again, it comes across as something like the classic saying, “it’s what’s inside that counts.” In other words: people judge on the externals, but God judges the internals – the heart. But again, on this reading, it’s David’s heart that wins God’s favour. And that’s not what it’s saying. Instead, it’s saying, “…man sees according to the eyes, but the Lord sees according to the heart.” In other words, people look with their eyes, God looks with his heart. It’s not about David’s heart; rather, it’s God’s heart doing the looking. And not according to human criteria, but the eternal criteria of God’s pre- determined purposes and plan. David turns out, in many ways, to be one of Israel’s best kings. As we have seen in 1 Samuel 17, he has a heart which is humble, courageous, and which longs for God’s glory. But David didn’t get chosen because of his heart – he has a beautiful heart because he was chosen by God to play this role in his unfolding plan. From Adam to David to Jesus to us… to Jesus’ return – this is how God always works. How have you read these verses in the past? What do you feel and think about this reading of these important texts? How does it deepen your affection for and awe of God?
80 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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81 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE Saul, the king Israel 1 Samuel 16:1-13 wanted, was replaced by YOU WILL NEED David, the king that God wanted. David points to (Primary activity only) the true King that we all One plain + a box that looks need – Jesus more impressive. A potato and some small, yummy treats
PRIMARY ACTIVITY read this passage it is obvious he does Without anyone seeing put the potato not have an impressive heart. God in the impressive box, and the yummy has rejected a disobedient Saul, and treats in the plain box. now asks Samuel to appoint a better king. This better king will be David, Get the family or group to pick one box the youngest and least of Jesse’s sons. only. Tell them they will get to keep & God is clear – while people look at enjoy whatever is inside the box. the outward appearance, the Lord After they have picked compare their looks at the heart. David is the better prize with the other box. Spend some king because he has the better heart. time debriefing why they chose the box Ultimately David will also fail, but he they did, and what was actually inside. points to the king we all need. Not a king who looks impressive on the HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITY outside. Instead we need a king with a Get each of the family or group to perfect heart. We need Jesus. think of an example of a celebrity that How can our hearts be more like the got famous through their looks or heart of Jesus? talent, but has questionable character and actions. Compare why they got PRAYER IDEA famous in the first place with their heart Dear Lord, Thank you that you look attitude and character. beyond outward appearance. You look DISCUSSION deep into people’s hearts. I praise you for your perfect king Jesus, who had In our activity we saw the difference the perfect heart. A heart that loves us between judging on outward so deeply he died for us. Sorry for when appearance. Let’s look at what God we don’t love like Jesus does. Help us judges people on. have a heart like Jesus, that loves those READ 1 Samuel 16:1-13 around us so much it hurts. Saul looked like an impressive king In Jesus name, Amen (1 Samuel 9:2), but by the time we
82 8SWEARING ALLEGIANCE TO THE KING BIG IDEA Jonathan sees that David is God’s chosen king, and so renounces any claim to the throne, by swearing allegiance to David. When we see that Jesus is God’s true King, we renounce our claim to self-rule and swear to serve Jesus. KEY VERSE “Jonathan said to David, ‘Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.’” - 1 Samuel 20:4
83 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
84 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 20 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
2. Jonathan demonstrates extraordinary insight into the future of David and his line in 20:14-16. How does he show his great insight and faith here?
3. Look at 20:16. Who might “David’s enemies” denote? What is both profound and poignant about Jonathan’s words here?
4. What do you think of Saul’s words in 20:30-31? How do you feel about Saul?
85 At this point, God has already announced to Saul that the kingdom will be torn away from him (1 Samuel 15:26-28), and David has already been anointed by Samuel to be king (1 Samuel 16:13). 5. What is striking about David’s attitude in all this? What is his relationship like with Jonathan, the king’s son? (See 20:8, 41)
Jonathan goes to David to report what had happened – but goes beyond their arranged symbolic communication, when he gives his weapons to his boy and sends him back to the city (20:41). This renders Jonathan defenceless as he approaches David. 6. What is significant about this in light of the context?
Jonathan makes a covenant with David in 1 Samuel 20:8, 16, and 42, and tells David to go in peace because they have sworn their friendship, and that the Lord is a witness between them. This is a profound sign of their loyalty and bond. 7. What is the cost for Jonathan in making such an allegiance? What do we learn from Jonathan, and his attitude towards this personal cost?
86 READ PSALM 2 If we read carefully, we can see a picture of Saul in verses 1-2, and a picture of Jonathan in verses 10-12. 8. What is compelling about this psalm, as you read it in light of 1 Samuel? How does it point us towards the coming King Jesus, the Son of God?
READ LUKE 14:26 On one level, Jesus is calling us to re-order our loves: loving Jesus first actually helps you to love other things rightly. On another level, Jesus’ jarring words are calling for something dramatic, and are rightly shocking to us. We’ve seen Jonathan understand and live this out. 9. To whom or what do your deepest loves and loyalties lie? What might be stopping you swearing your full allegiance to Jesus as your “first love,” potentially to the exclusion of all else?
HEART/HANDS While Jonathan’s love for David is highlighted in these passages, 20:14-16 reveals that Jonathan also fears David and his future reign. He asks for mercy from David whilst he has the opportunity ahead of time. 10. What do you think it means to have right love, and right fear, for God? How does Jonathan model this? (Peter also models this before Jesus – see Luke 5:8)
87 11. What might it look like for your loves and fears to be shaped by the Kingdom of Jesus Christ – who is coming back again? Where in your life do you see evidence of disordered loves, and/or misplaced fears?
Many centuries before the coming of Jesus, Jonathan provides a touching and powerful model of discipleship, and allegiance to God’s chosen, anointed king. He counts the cost, “taking up his cross,” and losing his life so that he might find it in the plans and purposes of God. (Luke 9:23-25) 12. Consider the day-to-day realities of your life. How can you adopt more of a posture of discipleship in your life, including dying to self as you become more like Jesus? How can you encourage one another in this as a growth group – and as fellow students in the school of Christ?
88 DIG DEEPER: THE LOVE OF JONATHAN AND DAVID Jonathan is one of those relatively rare, shining lights in the Biblical narrative. His loyalty towards and love of David is unhesitating and faithful, even in the face of deep personal cost. It is becoming clearer and clearer that David is God’s chosen king, and that Saul can feel the kingdom slipping out from beneath his feet. Jonathan isn’t the only one said to “love” David – Saul’s daughter, Michal, also loves David (1 Samuel 18:20), and marries him; and “all Israel and Judah” are said to love David (1 Samuel 18:16). Saul himself was once said to love David also (1 Samuel 16:21), but this love has turned to fear, envy, and hatred, as he perceives the threat David poses to his own kingship. In these passages about Jonathan, it is helpful to know the nuances contained in the word, “love.” Whilst Jonathan’s love for David is certainly not less than a sense of deep affection (it’s clear that they have a close and genuine friendship), it may mean more than just this. The word used here for “love” is often used in political contexts, and strongly suggests that Jonathan loves David in terms of political struggles and power plays. Jonathan not only has a profound personal regard for David, he enters into a covenant with him. He swears his allegiance to David. And ultimately, he submits his own political goals and hopes to David. This is why Jonathan’s giving of his robe and armour to David in 1 Samuel 18:4 is so significant. In this passage, Jonathan willingly hands over his royal and political rights, as the son of the present king, to David, thereby acknowledging him as the Lord’s chosen king, and the one who will rightfully inherit the throne of Israel. By God’s grace, Jonathan sees as God sees, and he knows David is his chosen one, and with no apparent reluctance, Jonathan joyfully submits himself to God’s king.
89 This is the kind of love with which God’s people appropriately love God himself. It’s a love that is certainly not less than a deep affection and respect for God, but also intimately related with fear of the Lord, a joyful obedience to his commands, submission to his purposes, and allegiance to his Kingship. How has Jesus perfectly shown this kind of love for his heavenly Father? Where else do we see this kind of love displayed in the Gospels, and the New Testament? Do you think you love God with a love like this? Why or why not?
90 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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91 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE Jonathan loves and 1 Samuel 18:1-4, serves God’s chosen king, 1 Samuel 20 just as we should love and serve King Jesus.
and next in line to be king. But his friendship with David was more important to him than being king. He knew that God has chosen David to be the next king. So when King Saul was so jealous he wanted to kill David, ALL AGES ACTIVITY Jonathan helped his friend David to Watch the video on YouTube “Kids escape from his father Saul. Jonathan Explain How They Became Best loved God’s chosen future king David Friends”. so much that he was a true and loyal Discuss with your family or growth friend. group about your friends. Who are We know that God true king is Jesus. your best friends? How did you Jesus is trustworthy and wants to be become best friends? our best friend. We should be a true HIGH SCHOOL ACTIVITY and loyal friend to Jesus. We should love him and serve him above all Get everyone in your family or growth others. In fact we should be true and group to share about who their friends loyal to all our friends by introducing are. them to Jesus as well – the best friend Discuss what it means to be a true and they will ever have. loyal friend. Maybe share stories of times friends were not true and loyal. PRAYER IDEA And share stories of times friends were Dear Lord, Thank you for friends. true and loyal to you. Thank you that Jonathan was a true DISCUSSION: friend to David. And thank you that Jesus wants to be our best friend. Help YouTube search for “Slapstick Theater us love and serve Jesus. Help us be (Jonathan and David)”. This story true and loyal to Jesus in everything. comes from 1 Samuel 18:1-4 & And even help us share Jesus with our 1 Samuel 20. friends who do not know him. In Jesus David & Jonathan were best friends. name, Amen Jonathan was the son of King Saul,
92 SERIES COMPANION FEEDBACK Your feedback is valuable to help improve this and future series. Feedback is anonymous and compiled statistically to identify areas for improvement. Please tick one response per question and return the completed questionnaire to your leader or lodge in the survey box at church.
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93 94 9THE SUFFERING KING BIG IDEA David endured suffering at the hand of Israel’s corrupt leader, just like Jesus endured suffering at the hand of corrupt leaders. Followers of Jesus walk in the steps of a suffering king, who will share in his hope.
KEY VERSE “May the Lord judge between you and me. And may the Lord avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you.’” - 1 Samuel 24:12
95 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
96 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART David is on the run from Saul. Read the following verses to get a sense of David’s movements over just a few short chapters: 1 Samuel 21:1a, 10; 22:1a, 3a; 23:13-15. In 1 Samuel 21:10-15, David flees to Gath to get away from Saul. Gath is a Philistine city – the city from which Goliath himself came (1 Samuel 17:4). Further, David is taking along his newly-acquired sword (1 Samuel 21:8-9) – the one which he used, very publicly, to behead Goliath! David seems to feel that even Gath is a safer choice than staying anywhere under Saul’s dominion right now. 1. What does all this say about David’s fear and suffering under Saul?
READ PSALM 56 (INCLUDING THE “TITLE”) 2. This is a psalm written by David when the Philistines seized him in Gath, taking him before Achish. What does this tell us about David’s fears, emotions, and where his confidence lies?
3. David is in a place where there are hostilities on every side. How does David’s experience here look forward to the coming King, Jesus – in his life and especially his death?
97 As we see Saul the Benjaminite persecuting the messiah (anointed king), David, we are reminded of another Saul the Benjaminite who would terribly persecute the ultimate Messiah, Christ – and his church (Acts 9:1-6). Just as Jesus experienced these hostilities, so those who belong to him can expect the same (Matthew 10:17-18; 1 Peter 4:12-19). READ 1 SAMUEL 24 4. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
5. What’s significant about David’s actions and words in the cave? What other options might have faced him – and what does his reveal about his character, beliefs, and the object of his faith?
6. Where else have we heard or seen a robe torn or cut off previously (See 1 Samuel 15:28)? What’s the significance of this happening here?
98 It’s not unlikely that Saul may have recognised the significance of the corner of his robe being cut off, based on Samuel’s words about God tearing the kingdom away from him for his disobedience. This may at least partially inform Saul’s response to David. But the torn robe in David’s hand was also more than a sign of Saul’s loss of the kingdom: it was now also a sign of David’s righteousness and mercy. 7. What strikes you about David’s speech, and Saul’s response? How do you feel about these characters, and why?
READ 1 PETER 2:22-23 8. How does David echo Jesus? Why can we be thankful for the godly patience and faith of these God-chosen kings – especially our Saviour, Jesus?
HEART/HANDS READ 1 PETER 2:19-25 9. How does Jesus’ own humble, patient, and non-retaliatory suffering encourage you, and spur you on – both as your Saviour and your example?
99 10. Is there suffering in your life at the moment? If you’re able to, share this with the group tonight, or a trusted friend later, so they can pray, comfort, and encourage you in Christ.
David had a long and difficult journey to the throne. So did Jesus. And so do we, as we journey towards the new heavens and new earth. We must have godly patience, and faith in God’s timing and purposes, as we follow in the footsteps of Jesus. 11. When do you find it difficult to have godly patience? How can the story of David, and of Jesus, help you grow in godly patience, trusting in the God who cares for you?
1 Peter 3:15 calls us to always have a ready answer for the hope that we have in Christ. Times of personal suffering often provide opportunities to share our hope in Jesus, as we share our lives and sorrows with others. We can witness to Jesus Christ, the source of our joy and hope, which ultimately outweighs (yet doesn’t eliminate) all earthly sorrows. 12. How could you be better prepared to share the hope that you have in Jesus amidst suffering?
100 DIG DEEPER: SINGING, PRAYING, AND CRYING THE PSALMS Amongst others, David wrote psalms as an expression of the reality of his experiences, as well as his faith in God. It’s a real treasure to have psalms which directly correspond with some of the events we’re reading about in 1 Samuel; to hear the heart, fears, faith, and prayers of David even as we read what he’s going through. We’ve looked at Psalm 56 in this study, as well as a couple of others in previous studies. Psalm 142 is another such psalm – in which David gives voice to both his suffering and his faith in God during the time when he was in the cave with Saul in 1 Samuel 24. The book of Psalms often holds a special place in the hearts of believers. It’s hard not to love and relate to the masterful and profound poetic language, the breadth and depth of experience and emotion, as well as the relatability and encouragement that we discover there. The Psalms are also a great place to be spending time as we’re continuing our journey through 1 Samuel. To read the Psalms well, there are a few different lenses to keep in mind as we open to these songs and prayers that have encouraged the saints over the centuries and millennia. Firstly, we read the psalms through the eyes and lips of the original author – in many cases, David. As we read the psalms he wrote, we come to understand his experiences and faith as lived out in light of his present realities: in the case of Psalms 34, 56, and 140, he experienced suffering at the hands of Saul. Secondly, we read the Psalms as upon the lips of Jesus. As we have seen, Jesus is the fulfilment of David, the messiah figure, as well as being the true, faithful Israel, the Son of God. It is hard to miss the voice of Jesus in the Psalms in verses such as Psalm 16:10 (quoted in Acts 2:27), Psalm 22:1 (quoted by Jesus in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34), or Psalm 31:5 (quoted in Luke 23:46), but as we continue to read the Psalms listening for Jesus’ voice, we see his experiences as Messiah and God’s true Son echoed in every psalm. This greatly enriches our reading and appreciating of the Psalms, particularly
101 as part of the wider biblical story. Thirdly and finally, once we have understood the Psalms as Jesus’ prayers and songs, we can and should take them as our own – both individually and in our shared lives together. Whatever we are experiencing in this world as disciples of Jesus Christ, the book of Psalms gives a voice to our own prayers, emotions, and life experiences. The Psalms give us words to pray when we struggle to find the right words, or any words at all, and allow us to cry out to God with our full range of emotions, and help us to rise again to faith and praise of the God who hears and saves, in Jesus’ name. How could you reflect on and use the Psalms to enrich the devotions and prayers of your own life, your family’s life, and/or the shared life of your growth group?
102 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
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103 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE David patiently suffered 1 Samuel 24 because of Israel’s bad leader, just like Jesus patiently suffered because of bad leaders. Hope and trust in Jesus when we suffer.
In the New Testament we learn of another chosen king - God’s son Jesus who also knew he was to be king of God’s people. He also waited and suffered and gained God’s favour. But this time not just for himself, he also gained favour and forgiveness for you ALL AGES ACTIVITY and me. In YouTube look up and watch ‘David When we experience hard and tough and Saul’ published by Saddleback things at home, school or work, we too Kids may have to be patient and obedient and put our hope in Jesus who will DISCUSSION: understand and guide us. At the time of the video, David was suffering, he was on the run because PRAYER IDEA his life was in danger. He struggled Dear Lord to find food and had to sleep in When we experience tough times uncomfortable remote places all or tough decisions please help us because King Saul wanted him dead. have courage to trust in you. Help David already knew he was chosen us remember Jesus who patiently to be the next king and could have suffered for us. Help us make the right ended his suffering if he had taken the choices of what to say and how to opportunity to killed Saul in the cave respond. there and then. But David chose to be patient and listen to God even though In your name we pray, Amen it was the harder choice. He gained respect from Saul, his own followers and he gained God’s favour.
104 10WAITING FOR THE TRUE KING BIG IDEA The book of 1 Samuel finishes where it started. With the proud king dead in the grave, we are still waiting for God’s humble king, who will be raised up. KEY VERSE “The Lord will deliver both Israel and you into the hands of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. The Lord will also give the army of Israel into the hands of the Philistines.” - 1 Samuel 28:19
105 WEEKLY REFLECTIONS
106 PRAY TO BEGIN HEAD/HEART READ 1 SAMUEL 27:5 – 28:25 1. What struck you about this story? (What did you like; or find jarring/confusing?)
Whilst David is living amongst the Philistines, he raids the surrounding peoples who are enemies both of Israel and the Philistines (1 Samuel 27:8). However, when Achish, king of the Philistines, asks David where he has been raiding, David lies to Achish, replying that he has been attacking peoples of the Negeb – a southern area comprising Judah, and Judah’s allies (1 Samuel 27:10). 2. Why do you think he is upholding this deception? What do you think of David’s actions?
We’re told in 1 Samuel 28:3 that Saul has put all the mediums and necromancers out of the land. This is to Saul’s great credit, for it both aligns with God’s law (Leviticus 19:31; 20:6, 27; Deuteronomy 18:11), and is in obedience to putting idols out of the land (cf 1 Samuel 7:3). Against this background, we see clearly the heights of Saul’s desperation and despair in this chapter, as well as disobedience to God’s law. 3. Look at Samuel’s speech in 28:16-19. What does he say will happen? What reasons does he give for this?
107 4. What emotions do you think Saul is feeling? What’s your reaction to Saul, and the events of this chapter?
5. Compare Saul, the tall, impressive king, now fallen full-length on the ground in defeat, with the Philistine god, Dagon in 1 Samuel 5:3. How has the people’s wish to have a “king like all the nations” come true? How does this expose the depth of their folly?
6. Read Ephesians 2:12-13. If verse 12 (“without hope and without God in the world”) is a picture of the Gentiles, in what ways does Israel have a king “like all the nations” here at the end of 1 Samuel? How does this remind us of our own predicament apart from Christ… and what hope do we have?
READ 1 SAMUEL 31 In some ways, Saul’s story in this final, sad chapter, reminds us of Adam’s story. Like Adam, Saul was appointed to rule, and began with so much potential. However, the glory of Saul’s (and Adam’s) leadership was marred ultimately by disobedience. Neither would ever be what they were created to be. 7. In a way, then, Saul’s story is also the story of every human being. Do you agree? What do you think about that?
108 8. These are dark chapters. Recall Hannah’s song: read 1 Samuel 2:6, 9. What hope might we have as we turn to 2 Samuel, and as we look into the distance for Jesus Christ?
9. How is Christ’s life and death the only real and lasting hope in the face of death? Do you know this hope as a reality in your life?
HEART/HANDS This story demonstrates the folly of trusting in human power – in seeing “as man sees”. 10. How do you see this tendency (to trust in human power) in the world, or in yourself? What might it look like to counter- culturally believe a different narrative: of power in weakness – especially in light of our Saviour’s death on a cross?
109 These chapters are sobering. Everything that was said about Saul has come to pass… and in this we see God’s faithfulness and that his promises are true. Yet death is always a tragedy. And along with the tragic, foolish Saul, we see his noble, faithful, wise son Jonathan suffer exactly the same fate. God has a purpose in including this story in his word to us. 11. Why might we need to really sit with the sad, stark reality of a story like this sometimes? What might this do for our hope in Christ?
These chapters show God to be faithful and just. He keeps all the promises of his word – both of deliverance and of judgment. 12. As you read these chapters, are you aware of God’s judgments always being right and just? Do you sense any danger for you in thinking that we are better (or more empathetic) judges than God?
Saul’s story seems extraordinarily tragic. Yet, in many ways, Saul is a picture of all humanity who are apart from God (Ephesians 2:12-13). 13. How should the image of Saul (one who was justly forsaken and without hope), and the image of Jesus Christ (the one who was forsaken for us) spur us on to mission?
110 DIG DEEPER: THE DEATH OF CHRIST, THE DEATH OF SAUL, AND THE DEATH OF US ALL As we watch Saul sink into the dark depths of despair in 1 Samuel 28, and witness his tragic end in chapter 31 – a lonely, helpless, doomed, and despairing figure – it might come as a shock to realise that some startling similarities between Saul’s death and the death of Jesus Christ are beginning to dawn on us. Especially surprising since David is usually the one who anticipates Christ in this story, not Saul. But the similarities and contrasts are as important as they are sobering. First, we see Saul die upon Mount Gilboa (31:1), just as Jesus died upon the hill of Golgotha, and appeared to his disciples upon a mountain (Matthew 28:16). Both died utterly alone – Saul’s sons had been killed, and even his armour-bearer won’t grant Saul’s request, leaving Saul to choose a lonely, self-inflicted death (31:2-4), just as Jesus found himself abandoned and alone in his death, as even his closest friends scattered in fear. Saul and his sons, in their death, are nailed to a wall in Beth-shan by God’s enemies, the Philistines, as an object of scorn and shame in their defeat (31:8-10); powerfully seen also in Jesus’ being nailed to the cross by his enemies – shamed and scorned in his apparent defeat. Also, both Saul (and his sons) and Jesus, were afterwards given the dignity of a proper burial by good people who came to get their bodies, even at significant risk to themselves (1 Samuel 31:11-13; Luke 23:50-53). And finally, and most profoundly, both died forsaken by God. Saul had suffered the horrific helplessness of knowing that God had torn the kingdom from him, had turned away from him, and neither heard nor answered Saul anymore (1 Samuel 28:6, 15). Jesus also dies alone and forsaken by God, crying out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46) – a tragedy of incomprehensible proportions. How could it be that both Saul and Jesus Christ die a God-forsaken death? This is where the similarities move into sharp contrast, for Saul’s death displayed a forsakenness tragically born of his own
111 disobedience and folly. He died under God’s just judgment. However, Jesus was the very righteousness and wisdom of God. He had lived a perfect, holy life, and died a God-forsaken death in our place, so that multitudes of sinful human beings like you and me wouldn’t have to. Jesus died a death like Saul, experiencing the God-forsakenness, not just of one life, but of every sinful human life – so that we wouldn’t have to. We would do well to solemnly consider these two deaths. The forsaken and despairing Saul – the picture of Adam, and of all of us, embodying our disobedience and failures, and dying the death that we all deserve. The forsaken and faithful Jesus, who took upon himself all our disobedience, sin, shame, and failure, and rising again to life, so that all who trust in him might not die, but have eternal life (John 3:16). Read Luke 23-24. Write a reflection on Jesus’ death and resurrection – what strikes you, how it makes you feel, and/ or what it means for you. Is there anything that particularly impacts you about Jesus’ death, resurrection, and his words to his disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:25-27, in light of what you’ve been learning in 1 Samuel?
112 PERSONAL PRAYER PRAYER FOR GROUP
PRAYER FOR CROSS PRAYER FOR UNBELIEVING CULTURAL CONNECT FAMILY + FRIENDS PARTNERS
113 BIG IDEA BIBLE PASSAGE 1 Samuel finishes where 1 Samuel 31:1-7 it started. With the proud YOU WILL NEED king dead in the grave, we are still waiting for Google ‘Emoji Faces’. Print God’s humble king, who off a range that represent will be raised up. a full range of emotions. Cut them out or have them on a grid to compare emotions.
I think Saul would have felt pretty sad and angry that his sons had died; also scared and without hope, because he gave up and didn’t want to live any more. Saul had lost hope. He was a proud king, but ended up dead in the grave. It is a really, really sad thing to have lost hope in what God can do. ALL AGES ACTIVITY But we have GOOD NEWS!!! We know Look at all the EMOJI faces you have that Jesus is the humble king who died printed out. As a family or growth and rose again to give us hope. A real group discuss the different emotions & lasting hope for all. We never need represented by each emoji and when to get to the point of hopelessness you may have felt that way. that Saul did. Don’t die without hope – keep trusting in Jesus. DISCUSSION Read 1 Samuel 31:1-7 together as a PRAYER IDEA family or growth group. Thank God for the hope we have in As you read along hold up the emoji Jesus. that you think represents what the Ask God to give us strength to live and people in story might be feeling (sad, trust in him when we’re tempted to scared, angry etc.). feel hopeless. Focus particularly on you think Saul Praise God for the people in our must have felt before he fell on his church and families who remind us of sword and died. the hope we have in Jesus.
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Jesus is God’s true and perfect king. He beats the SERIES COMPANION ultimate enemy of death. He finally deals with TEAM the sin of God’s people. The Book of 1 Samuel is Elizabeth Wilson Jesus’ shadow in the Old Testament – a story which Steve Cree anticipates him. In Saul we see a king – the people’s Vicki Meehan king – who simply mirrors the sin of the people, Katharine Yock leading him and them into death. In David we get Marie Heneghan hints of a better king – God’s king – who delivers his Davo Gunning people. Hannah’s song hints at God’s unexpected Gayle Neville ways – and an unexpected king –ultimately fulfilled John Wallace in King Jesus. Tim Hewlett We are all waiting for a king. We all desire someone Elspeth Lee to be ruling our lives, whether that be us or Emily Andrews someone else. In 1 Samuel we see what happens when people reject God as king. Jesus entered the FAMILY GROWTH TEAM world as God’s true king, fulfilling the promises in Hayley Alexander the Old Testament and giving us the ruler we really Patrice Ramsay need. Our hope is that, as we work through the Tom Fittell book of 1 Samuel together, you will meet Jesus – Chris Pine God’s true King – and allow him to be the ruler of your life.
Waiting for the True King © 2018 Church2Church All rights reserved Scripture quotations are from NIV 2011 All rights reserved. Used by permission. CHURCH2CHURCH.ORG.AU
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