><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (1 Samuel) CHAPTER 23 & 24 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1 In what ways did God's protecting hand cover David, and what special encouragements did he receive? Cf Ps. 37: 23, 24. 2 What held David back from killing Saul when it was in his power to do it, and when his followers were urging him on? What virtues shine out in his self-restraint, and what lessons do you learn from this? Cf Rom. 12: 19, 20. 3 Were Saul's words and weeping accompanied by a real change of heart? Cf Ho. 6: 4; Is. 29: 13. What does real repentance involve? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (1 Samuel) Chapter 23 + 24 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) The Lord shows His infinite kindness and companionship to D. He gave D. victory over the Philistines, protection from Saul in the land of Keilah and guidance, provided Jonathan to help D. find strength in God, protection from Saul when the Ziphites revealed where he and his army were. When the going gets tough, God shows His divine power and care to His servant/s. We can depend on our God, like David did, Psalm 18:1-3: "I love you, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take regfuge. He is my shield and my salvation, my stronghold. I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies." (2) David spared Saul because S. was the Lord's anointed. He honored the Lord's choice, and chose not to kill S. for his own self-interest, but to honor God first. It shows a true devotion to God's will. D. was not about cruel revenge, but about honoring God as Almighty. (3) Obviously S. did not truly repent, for he pursued D. again later. Real repentance involves not only remorse and mourning, but a change of heart and a CHANGE OF ACTIONS. We see later how S. in no way intended to stop pursuing D. - he was not genuinely repentant. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) God provided guidance to David as to his next moves. He led David where to go to protect him from the wrath of Saul. He gave him a support companion in Jonathan to help him through the troubles. He provided when David needed Him. Psalm 37:23-24 23 If the LORD delights in a man's way, he makes his steps firm; 24 though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand. 2) David realized that Saul was God's anointed king, and who was he to judge. What a realization, that David realized the statement Christ gave to the crowd wanting to stone the woman, let he who is without blame cast the first stone. We should never be our own judge, but let the Lord judge the actions and deeds of those who wrong us. David shows self-discipline, self control, and confidence not to give in to the demands of the masses. 3) Saul's words seem to indicate a sense of genuine sorrow, but this sorrow would only remain temporarily. In order to be truly repentant, we must have a true change of heart. Saul here was shedding 'crocodile tears' Saul's lips were repentant, but in his heart, he was still holding the sin. May we seek true repentance from the wrongs we have committed and have a true sense of heartfelt remorse. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) The Significance Of The Victory At Keilash To David, I Samuel 23: 1-13: David won the battle at Keilash whth his 600 (now increased) "social trash" soldiers. Even David delivered Keilash from Philistines, yet people of Keilash remained loyal to king Saul. Keilah is about 15 miles east of Gath. It is just outside the territory of Philistines in Southwest Canan. Gath was the home town of Goliath. The significance of this battle is that king of Gath - Achish (21:12, 15) expelled David once. After winning the battle at Keilash, it might be the reason that king Achish accepted David to stay there at his revisit to Gath, I Sam. 27:2. (ii) A Noble Friend, 23:17b: ----- I SHALL BE NEXT TO YOU. (NKJ) What a friend David had in Jonathan. This is also the way that Jesus would be to us, if we are faithful. What A Friend We Have In Jesus. (iii) I Samuel 24:10b - i WILL NOT PUT FORTH MINE HAND AGAINST MY LORD; FOR HE IS THE lORD'S ANOINTED. Psalm 105:15: --- tOUCH NOT MINE ANOINTED, AND DO MY PROPHETS NO HARM. -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 1 Sam 23:2: David, fearing for his own life, still gave attention to the welfare of the people of Israel. By going to Keilah, he and his men would be exposed. There was a double risk: the Philistines and Saul. 3: There is a clear distinction between the attitude of David after inquiring of the Lord and that of his men. David is confident in what the Lord has told him. On the other hand, he inquired of the Lord again. The purpose was not out of doubt but out of respect for his men. He was not going to force them to follow him into the highly risky venture. Instead, he inquired of the Lord a second time to afirm before his men that this is the direction from the Lord. Notice the Lord responds evenly to David and provides him more details than in the previous request. 14: ...but God did not give David into his hands!!!!! v16-18 Jonathan illustrates the importance of having a friend of like precious faith as a sounding board, and encouragement and to exhort one to faithfulness to the Lord. Do we have such a friend? 27: Saul's obsession with capturing and killing David diverted his attention from providing safety and security for the people of Israel. 28: The Lord's protection of David is evident. The Lord's timing is impecible. 29: An oasis in the Wilderness of Judea above the Dead Sea. A region with fresh water, heavy vegetation, and life. 1 Sam 24:4: There are two ways of understanding "give your enemy into your hands." From a secular view it could meant that the Lord had provided David an opportunity to dispatch Saul without a fight. However, David took the promise more literally -- The Lord would depose Saul and place David on the throne. Saul was the anointed of the Lord. He was in the Lord's hands. Saul's loss of the throne was solely the Lord's responsibility. Do we know the Lord well encough to discern when we should act and when we should withhold action? 17: It appears that Saul always understood why the Lord blessed and protected David and why he (Saul) existed outside of the presence and protection of the Lord. Yet, he refused to return to the Lord. God had indeed removed his spirit from Saul. At what point do we recognize that God has removed his spirit from someone? Scripture does not indicate that we are to know this. We are cautioned not to cast pearls before swine, meaning that there is a point at which we ought not continue the presentation of the truth. Is it appropriate to continue to pray for the most hardened of heart? The prayer of a righteous man availeth much!!! ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (1 Samuel) CHAPTER 25 and 26 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1 Nabal was rich and satisfied; but what did he lack? What, in contrast, were the outstanding features of Abigail's character? Can you think of situations where you could act as she did? 2 Chapter 26. What basic convictions motivated David's actions? How does his faith in God's purpose for him stand out? In particular what principle emerges from 25:39 and 26: 10, 23? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (1 Samuel) Chapter 25 and 26 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) IMO (in my opinion), Nabal lacked a lot of common courtesy and social sense, and wisdom. He was foolish to respond to D. in that way. It would have been even better not to respond at all than to insult someone with an army of men. Additionally, Nabal was obviously not a "godly man", based on his behavior and actions. Fortunately, he had an intelligent wife, Abigail; she was quick, shrewd and capable. She knew how to appease D.'s anger. Nabal was lucky to be married to this peacemaking woman. (2) D. again did not want to harm the Lord's anointed. Again, he was showing his trust in the Lord and honoring the Lord's will. D. would only follow the path the Lord had laid out before him. Very commendable actions. The principle that emerges from these chapters is to let the Lord take revenge. We are not qualified to do that - after all, we are sinful as well. (What if God let others take revenge on us as well?) Only Holy God can judge anyone, and therefore, only the Lord has the right to take revenge/avenge us. Romans 12:19-21 tells us the attitude we ought to take: "Do NOT take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. ON THE CONTRARY: "If your enemy is hungry, FEED HIM; if he is thirsty, GIVE HIM SOMETHING TO DRINK. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." DO NOT BE OVERCOME BY EVIL, but OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) Nabal lacked discernment. Abigail was a wise and understanding woman. She could see beyond the faults of her husband and was wise enough to cause David to let Nabal live even after his insulting actions. We must deal wisely when dealing in the business of this world. We as Christians must seek to do what is right, but at the same time be shrewd and wise, as Abigail was. Christ too used his acumen to catch the Pharisees in their own traps. We too must use wisdom from Him to deal with those who might cause us harm in this world. 2) David is motivated by his feeling that Saul is the chosen servant of the Lord and that no one should harm the servant of the Lord, otherwise they are going against God himself. This is the second time that David has the opportunity to kill Saul and end his wanderings and his flight for freedom, but he is patient to wait on the Lord's timing for things to happen. Sometimes the Lord shows us something that He has planned to happen(i.e. David's anointing as king) and does not bring it about right away to build our perseverance and patience to wait on His timing. Chapter 26 Verse 23 sums it up "The Lord will repay each man for his righteousness and his faithfulness; for the Lord delivered you into my hand today, but I refused to stretch out my hand against the Lord's anointed." May we have the faith and patience to wait on God's timing and to rejoice when it comes to fruition and act righteously to seek eternal reward. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) Did Abigail do right? Abigail was an intelligent and beautiful woman, 25:3. She was also a richman's wife. Did she do the right thing to take action to save her husband's life without telling him? For sure, she was a woman with vision and wisdom, 25:24; 25:30-31: sHE FELL AT HIS FEET AND SAID:" mY LORD, ------." "---- wHEN THE lORD HAS DONE FOR MY MASTER EVERY GOOD THING HE PROMISE DCONCERNING HIM AND HAS APPOINTED HIM LEADER OVER iSRAEL, MY YMASTER WILL NOT HAVE ON HIS CONSCIENCE THE STAGGERING BURDEN OF NEEDLESS BLOODSHED OR OF HAVING AVENGED HIMSELF. aND WHEN THE lORD HAS BROUGHT MY MASTER SUCCESS, REMEMBER YOUR SERVANT." (ii) Gold Nugget - 26:23a tHE lORD REWARDS EVERY MAN FOR HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND FAITHFULNESS. -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 1 Sam 25:3: Nabal's character is contrasted with that of his wife. The question is: what influence did his worldly wealth have to do with is outlook on life, his character? Not that Nabal was controlled by his environment. Instead, he allowed his vast wealth to influence this attitude toward others and life. v14-16 Here is another example of David's concern for the people around him even though he and his men were threatened by Saul. 18: Abigail the intercessor. Abigail followed through, providing David and his men with support that Nabal had been asked to provide. 1 "seahs": That is, probably about a bushel (about 37 liters) 24: Abigail placing her life before David as a substitute for Nabal. 28: v28-30 Is this a prophesy? Could Abigail see David's future, or was David's anointed position and predicament common knowledge among the people of Israel? 32: Abigail had, in part done what David had asked of her husband. She brought food and drink to David and his men. Worthless as Nabal was, Abigail defended him and ransomed Nabal's men. 38: Here is another instance where the Lord took the action himself -- not through the hands of man. 1 Sam 26:9: Here was an opportunity to end the torment that Saul was to David. David understood that Saul, being the anointed king, served under the protection of God. David was confident to allow the Lord to work things out in his own time. Can we be a patient as David was even when we have the opportunity to rid ourselves of thorns in the flesh? How often do we suffer the consequences of taking matters into our own hands, when the Lord had a better plan? 10: Just as the Lord dealt with Nabal he would deal with Saul! 12: The Lord seems to be confronting Saul with David's compassion and constraint. 18: Saul pursued David because David was obedient to the Lord and was blessed by the Lord. Obedient servants of the Lord are a threat to the worldly. They reject the call to accountability that is apparent in the lives of the obedient. 24: David: "My trust is in the Lord." Saul placed his trust in power, authority, and an army. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (1 Samuel) CHAPTER 27 and 28 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1 Contrast David's words in 27:1 with 17:37. Into what action did depression drive him, and what price had he to pay for it? Were you ever overcome by circumstances in this way? Cf 2 Ch. 19:2 Jas. 4:4. 2 Looking back over the story of Saul, how did he come to his final sorry state? What warning ought we to take from his confession in 28: 15? Cf I Tim.I:19. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (1 Samuel) Chapter 27 and 28 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) David was stricken by fear - he faltered in his faith. He had to serve Achish, king of Gath as a result, basically becoming an enemy of his own people. Yes, this happens to many Christians. One comforting thing I find is that God sought out David: I Sam. 13:14: "...the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people..." How merciful God is, and what an encouragement! Despite our faults, God looks at the heart. This is encouragement to press on. (However, God did punish D. for his sins, seen later on). (2) Saul arrived at this place because of arrogance, selfish interests, disobedience to the Lord, and not honoring God first in his actions. But mostly due to insincere repentance, I think. God gave Saul many chances, but Saul never changed himself. I Tim 1:19 says: "..holding on to faith and a good conscience..." Having a clear conscience is important, and the only way to have one is to be obedient to God in all things. But if we do sin, we must repent and be changed in heart and action. In Psalm 51:16-17, David writes (after having committed adultery with Bathsheba), "You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) David seems to have had a time of doubt as to the power of God to fulfill His promise to make him king. When he went out to fight Goliath, he was filled with the Spirit and so overflowing that nothing could defeat him as long as the Lord was on his side. Now, he is weary of wandering and being a fugitive from the hand of Saul. He crosses over into the land of the Phillistines to wait out the wrath of Saul. In doing so, he makes himself and enemy of his own people, and outsider, who is forced to fight for an enemy king and take land from his own people for a year and a half. An interesting note to all this is that this is when David brings back the iron technology to the people. Prior to this they didn't know how to make swords, thus Saul and Jonathan were the only ones with swords at an earlier battle. So even in his departure from God and a seemingly bad situation, he is doing good for his people in the future. 2) Saul hits rock bottom. Instead of seeking God, he seeks a form of god by asking a fortune teller/spiritualist to conjure up Samuel's spirit from the dead. We see that by his own admission God has left him. We must hold onto our faith in God even when He seems to be distant or missing. It is during these times that we must cling harder still in faith that we might overcome the evil ones temptation. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) David's Mistakes Of Moving To Live Among the Philistines, I Samuel 27, 1: A. Removing himself from the presence of God; B. Withdrawing himself from the fellowship with God's people; C. Rushing into the idolatrous land. (ii) Where Was Samuel's Spirit Raised Up From? Samuel 28:11: In the Old testament time, when the righteous ones died, they went to paradise; or say the bosom of Abraham. They did not go to the presence of God. When Jesus died, He ascended to the Father - John 20:17; Ephesians 4:9. "Jesus said , "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father, Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God." "What does 'he ascended' mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? ---" -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 1 Sam 27:1: Given Saul's promise, David did not trust him. He did not see a real change of heart, repentence. As was borne out by subsequent events, Saul did not desire to turn away from pursuit of David. The Lord gave David discernment. 9: David was thorough! 10: Deception. Achish beleived David was raiding the settlements of Israel. 1 Sam 28:3: Saul does what he thinks is right. A works approach, not based on clear obedience to the Lord. 5: Saul did not see that battle from the Lord's perspective. Instead he saw it from a human perspective. Instead of seeing victory, he saw defeat. Instead of anticipating the great thing that the Lord was going to do, he expected defeat. How we view the challenges that face us makes a major difference. 6: When Saul's heart was not right with God, God did not respond. If that was the case, then Saul would turn to someone who could connect him with God or could speak for God. Note that in v3 Saul expelled mediums and spiritists. He did not kill them. Further, it is apparent that he was not very thorough in expelling the mediums. Therefore, one was available when he "needed" one. 8: Saul's true character shows again. He said one thing (expell the mediums) but did something else (sought out a medium). 10: Saul calls on the Lord or uses his name when it is convenient for him, not out a relationship or deep respect. 13: Saul, the one who was afraid of the Philistine army was telling the medium not to be afraid! 1 "spirit": Or ; or 18: Saul had many flaws. We have seen how they seem to build on one another until his disobedience in not destroying the Amalekites. The consequences of this one act brought down the house of Saul. 20: Saul had lost touch with reality. Here is a warrior, ready to go into battle who had not eaten in 24 hours. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (1 Samuel) CHAPTER 29 and 30 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1 Chapter 29. Into what great difficulty had David brought him- self, and how was he delivered? Do I ever give the world cause to say, 'What is that Christian doing here?' Cf 2 Cor. 6: 14. 2 Chapter 30. Strength in defeat and generosity in victory. How does this chapter illustrate these characteristics? Have you learnt David's secret of inner strength? Cf 23: 16; Ps. 18: 2. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (1 Samuel) Chapter 29 and 30 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) The Philistine leaders did not trust D. D. was between a rock and a hard place - he had to fight against his own beloved people and kill them, being a traitor. The Lord delivered D. by making the leaders send him and his men back to the land of the Philistines, not to participate in the battle against Israel. We often, at least IMO, find ourselves in places where we have difficult choices to make. One good guideline might be - "would I be able to tell other Christians what I did and not feel ashamed of my behavior?" Other believers are often excellent sources to keep us accountable for our actions. (2) When your own strength fails you, you must seek the Lord. This was D.'s "last straw" - his men were exhausted...would the Lord give the Amalekites over to them? D. had to inquire of the Lord, and find strength in God because everyone else was angry with him. He was not a popular guy at this time. However, D. shows that he is "the man after God's own heart" by his generosity in sharing the plunder with those who were too tired to fight. Wouldn't you like to have him as a leader too? In Psalm 18:32, D. proclaims: "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) David brought himself into a position much like those in the American Civil War. North vs. South, brother vs. brother, David vs. Israel. He was put in a position that the Philistines didn't want him on their side, and he was being chased by his own people. He was delivered when king Achish told him to go back. We must stand out among the world just as David did among the Philistines. In many ways, the Philistines symbolize the world. 14 Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? The idea here is to separate ourselves from the world, be the difference that they notice and see. The ever familiar so hard to fine line "in the world but not of it". 2) David deals fairly with those who stayed behind while the others were in battle. He rewards them just as greatly as those who went into battle. This shows his generosity, compassion and his fairness. David's secret is that as in Chp 30 v6 and 23 he finds strength in the Lord and he gives thanks to the Lord, who provided the victory. He knows where his strength comes from. Psalm 18:2 2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Let us too place our trust in the solid rock, our foundation never failing. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) 29:3 - What Are These Hebrews Doing Here? David and his men accompaned the Philistines in the invasion of the land of Israel. "These Hebrews" came out north to Aphek from Zikleg, the place assigned to them to stay while they were with Achish, Philistine king of Gath. This movement caused the Amalekites to attack and burn Zikleg etc. It is the preceding event of David's experience of great distress and victory. (ii) 30:6 - David was greatly distressed: His people lost confidence in him and intended to stone him. David's prayer - tURN TO ME AND BE GRACIOUS TO ME FOR i AM LONELY AND AFFLICTED. Psalm 25:16. Prayer answered - dAVID FOUND STRENGTH IN THE lORD HIS gOD. I Samuel 30:6b (iii) 30:13 - The Egyptian Slave: My Prayer: Lord, my God, when we are disturbed, distressed, lonely and afflicted, please provide us the instrument like the "Egyptian slave" to deliver us. Meanwhile, strengthening our faith through this Study. Amen. -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 1 Sam 29:3: v3-7 If the secular world is concerned about the loyalty of those in their midst, how much more should we be concerned about those with who we go to battle. Are they really aligned with the Lord or do their motives and allegience lie elsewhere 1 Sam 30:1: These are the Amalekites that Saul had failed to destroy asdirected by the Lord. v6-8 No matter how bad things were, David found strength in the Lord. Not as an after thought as Saul did. Instead, he sought the Lord first. 20: "This is David's plunder." = "These are the fruits of MY labor." How easy it is to lose sight of the Lord our provider. v21-25 "too exhausted to follow" -- The Lord expects us to serve him regardless of our physical condition. Some he calls into hand-to-hand combat on the front lines. Others are called to provide support from the rear. Some are incapacitated by health or age, yet they are as important to the battle plan as those on the front. When the victory banquet is held all will celebrate. This is spiritual partnership. 23: David saw the plunder as belonging to the Lord. The victory belonged to the Lord, not the army. This is very hard to understand in light of the lengthy battle that David and his men fought against the Amalekites. It was natural for David's men to see the plunder as their's. How hard is it to give credit to the Lord when what we possess appears to be the fruit of our labor? When we do, we have taken our eyes off of the Lord! 26: David demonstrating concern, once again for the Hebrews. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (1 Samuel) CHAPTER 31 and Revision ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1 Compare the defeat of chapter 31 with that of chapter 4. What were the reasons for these defeats? Cf 1 Chr. 10:13,14. What challenge does this bring to your own life? 2 How did David's experiences, as recorded in chapters 16-31, all serve to prepare him for his future work as king? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (1 Samuel) Chapter 31 and Revision =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) In both these defeats from Ch. 4 and Ch. 31, the sons of leaders died. It is very sad in this case because Jonathan, a faithful servant of the Lord and friend who was "one in spirit" with David has been killed. The Israelites suffered a great loss in both battles, but in this one they had a leader, Saul, who committed suicide. The reasons for defeat are surely that the Lord did not grant them success. It shows clearly that putting our trust in the Lord is the key to victory. Any other plan is futile. Ps. 28:5, in reference to those who do evil: "Since they show no regard for the works of the Lord and what his hands have done, He will tear them down and never build them up again." (2) D. knew what it was like to fight on the enemy's side, and traveled over foreign lands, how to evade his enemy well, and where the best hideouts were. Most of all, he understood how to deal with people. He was kind to his army by sharing plunder and keeping peace, and sent gifts to keep up good "political" relationships. He was a shrewd negotiator, even feeding a hungry Egyptian water and fig/raisin cakes to be led to the Amalekites to destroy them. All his experiences were key to preparing him for kingship. Above all, he found his strength in God. It is ironic to me how such terrible times for D. were really meant for his good - to prepare him to be king. We can claim the promise of Rom. 8:28: "And we know that IN ALL THINGS God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- 1) The defeat at the hands of the Philistines here is similar to the defeat in chp4. Both of those defeats came due to the unfaithfulness of the people to God. In chp4, it is the whole of the people of Israel, in chp31 it is from Sauls unfaithfulness to God. This challenges us to hold fast to what God can and will do for us, and to not forget His presence in our lives. 2) David was tested in his faith and in his endurance to wait on the timing of God. It was 7 years that he waited to be king. His battle with Goliath, his various battles against Philistine troops all helped to shape his leadership capabilities. We must remember that God prepares us for the work he has called us for/to. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) The First King of Israel Died This Way: 1. He killed himself; 2. They cut off his head; 3. His armor was placed in the house of Ashtoreth, the fetility goddess; 4. His body was neiled on the wall; 5. Died the same day with his three sons; What a tragic ending of an arrogant man. (ii) Why Did He Die this way? He is a victim of human pride and jealousy. (iii) Closing Verse: I Samuel 2:30b - tHOSE WHO HONOR ME i WILL HONOR, BUT THOSE WHO DESPISE ME WILL BE DISDAINED. -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 1 Sam 31:2: Another lesson from the secular world. The Philistines went for the head of the army. We are often satisfied with nibbling at the periphery. When it comes to sin we deal in generalities. Like the Philistines, we need to get to the heart of the matter, specific sin and its source. Unless we do, it keeps coming back to haunt us. Gen 3 states that Christ will crush the head of the serpent. He can do that in our lives only when we go to the core of the issue. 4: Saul's calling the Philistines uncircumsized is out of hopelessness and, therefore, differs significantly from David and Jonathan's view of the Philistines. They saw the Philistines from the side of the victor. Saul saw the Philistines from the side of the defeated. 9: Just as David recognized that holding the head of the vanquished is a memorial to victory, so did the Philistines. Neither Goliath nor Saul are heros! The victor's final act of decapitation made sure of that. ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> (2 Samuel) CHAPTER 1 ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Directing Questions -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1) The Amalekite thought he was bringing David good news (cf 2 Sa.4:10), but he had mistaken his man. Why did David have him killed? 2)What light does this episode, and the lament for Saul and Jonathan (verses 19-27), throw on David's character? Bearing in mind the faults of the king to whom David was so loyal, are there any lessons here for me? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Comments from (2 Samuel) Chapter 1 =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -------------------------------------------- * Blenda Chao -------------------------------------------- (1) D. considered that the Amalekite should not have killed Saul, the Lord's anointed. He did not have the authority to do it, and D. said "Your blood be on your own head..." D. considered killing the Lord's anointed deserving of death. (2) This shows how D. was truly not happy about Saul's death. (We already know how close Jonathan and he were.) He was not jealous and wishing for Saul to die. He considered S. a great king of Israel, and honored him as such. It shows how D. was a godly man, as in the Bible it instructs us to (Rom. 13:1) submit to our governing authorities, since God has established them. In all these matters, D. was blameless. -------------------------------------------- * Alvin Chao -------------------------------------------- Background: In the Hebrew bible, the books of 1 and 2 Samuel are one book. This is another reason I chose to continue the study into 2 samuel to get more insight into David before we study the worship lessons in Psalms. Similarly, the books of Judges and Ruth are also one book in the original Hebrew text. 1) David had the Amalekite put to death since he had killed the Lord's anointed servant Saul. The man may have lied (as my study bible notes - to gain recognition) According to 1Sam 31 Saul commits suicide, this man's story is inconsistent with that account in that he says he killed Saul. Perhaps he felt David might handsomly reward him for killing Saul, and so brought Saul's possessions to David. David had said all along his own reason for not killing Saul though given ample opportunity, was that Saul was chosen by the Lord and who was he(david) to mess with what God had appointed. 2) David is dutifully loyal to those selected by the Lord. He follows them without hesitation and according to the set ways. He shows his love for the house of Jonathan and the pact they made previously here and also later. We need to take from this again the example of respect for our leaders, especially our church leaders. We must pray for them that the Lord would show them His way and path, and that they would be effective tools for his service. Even when our political leaders are not doing things right in the sight of God(as Saul did not) we need to still Respect them and give them the respect due them for being our leaders. -------------------------------------------- * James Chao -------------------------------------------- (i) Introduction The book of Samuel is the first one of the books of the kings · 1 Samuel - Man's choice - Saul; · 2 Samuel - God's choice - David; · 1 Kings - Solomon and Israel; · 2 Kings - Israel's kings; · 1 Chronicles - Solomon and the Temple; · 2 Chronicles - The kings and the temple. [What the Bible Is All About] The two books of Samuel were originally one continuous account in the Hebrew text, but English translations following the Greek and Latin translation divide Samuel in two books. The purpose of 2 Samuel is: · To record the history of David's reign; · To demonstrate effective leadership under God; · To reveal that one person can make a difference; · To show the personal qualities that please God; · To depict David as an ideal leader of an imperfect kingdom, and foreshadow Christ who will be the ideal leader of a new and perfect kingdom, Chapter 7. [Life Application Bible for Students] (ii) David's Distinguishing Quality Qualified Him to be the king of Israel, 2 Samuel 1: 1:14-15 - dAVID ASKED HIM, "wHY WERE YOU NOT AFRAID TO LIFT YOUR HAND TO DESTROY THE lORD'S ANOINTED?" · tHEN dAVID CALLED ONE OF HIS MEN AND SAID, "gO, STRIKE HIM DOWN!" sO HE STRUCK HIM DOWN, AND HE DIED. At the time when David came back to Ziklag, the Amalekite soldiers all went back to the deep south of Edom. How come this young man "happened to be on Mount Gilboa"? He was there even before the Philistines saw Saul's body! The Amalekite young man that came to David obviously thought that he was bringing good news to David that Saul was dead and here is the evidence to prove to you that your enemy is dead - Saul's crown and his arm band. Did he kill Saul, 1:10? Or Saul took his own sword and fell on it, 31:4? The reason David killed the Amalekite young man was also confirmed in 4:10 - wHEN A MAN TOLD ME, "sAUL IS DEAD," AND THOUGHT HE WAS BRINGING GOOD NEWS, i SEIZED HIM AND PUT HIM TO DEATH IN zIKLAG. tHAT WAS THE REWARD i GAVE HIM FOR HIS NEWS! Further, the lament was recorded not only in the Book of Jashar, but also in the Bible. The Bow Song indicated David's respect to God anointed king and also his loyalty to the nation of Israel. -------------------------------------------- * Les Tripp -------------------------------------------- 2 Sam 1: v6-10 The Amalekite's story is not consistent with the narrative in 1 Sam 31:4-5. On the other hand the involvement of the Amalekite has an ironic touch. Saul had failed to slay all of the Amalekites as instructed by the Lord. Now comes one who would take credit, falsely, for his death. 14: Even in death, Saul remained the Lord's anointed to David. The Amalekite and many of David's men did not recognize the significance of the anointing of the Lord.