I Samuel Bible Study 1-9

I SAMUEL 9-10 | Lesson # 10 | BEING FOUND, THE CALL: PRIVATE CONFIRMATION

2008-08-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

I SAMUEL 9-10 Lesson # 10

BEING FOUND, THE CALL: PRIVATE CONFIRMATION

I. Greetings.

II. Introduction: The selection and ratification of leadership.

Q How does one know they are selected for ministry or leadership in the church?

Q How does one know they are called?

An = Let your group give their points of view but do not answer yourself. Point out that maybe there are more than one way to look at this: How do I the person called know it is a call from God and how does the group I lead know that I am called from God. What we are going to read in the next few chapters is an extensive example of the answer to that question. According to I Samuel 9-11 it is a three step process. We will look at the first step in this study.

III. Saul's Personal Call and Its Ratification: I Samuel 9:-10:16

A. Innocuous beginnings: Searching for Lost Items.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 9:1-5.

Q What does Saul look like?

An = He is a good looking and tall man. He also comes from a good family.

Q What is Saul looking for? Was he looking for advancement or the kingship?

An = No, he was merely doing his duty and looking for some of his father's property. The best way to hear the call of God is to be about our duty.

Q Why does the narrator spend talk about lost property? What importance does that have for the selection of kings?

An = The story is an idyllic one, full of old world color and stresses trying to "find" something, when it might be leading to being "found".

B. Finding the Prophet

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 9:6-14.

Q Why did they seek out the prophet?

An = They were looking for their property: their donkeys.

Note: Notice how well regarded the prophet is. They will not eat until he has arrived.

C. The Providence of God.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 9:15-17.

Q Samuel is to anoint Saul for what purpose according to 9:16?

An = "He shall deliver My people from the hand of the Philistines." Leaders are not given their positions so they can be special but so they can specially "help" others. We are to lead for the "sake of others" needs. Leadership has no validation except in "serving".

Note: Even though Israel has rejected God's better of way of providing leadership He still loves His people. Look at the end of 9:16. He has heard their cries. He is modeling for us real leadership qualities. God knows they are worried about the Philistine threat, and though they have not shown Him the trust that they should have He is still worried about their needs.

Q How did Samuel know Saul was the man?

An = God told the day before Saul arrived and from what tribe he would be from (9:16). Also, God reaffirmed the selection when Samuel saw Saul (9:17).

Q How did Saul happen to be where the prophet was? What occasioned the fateful meeting of Samuel and Saul?

An = From one point of view it was the search for donkeys! There is another point of view. Theologians have another word for this: "providence". God especially provides for us with His sovereign will through the minutest details. What seemed like a chance meeting between Samuel and Saul due to Saul's search for donkeys was actually the hand of God.

EX Give an example of God's providence from your own life and see if someone else would like to share one as well. >>If time allows have them look at Proverbs 16:9 and 20:24<<.

Note: If you look at 9:16 and 9:17 the author is clearly telling us that it is God's initiative that is behind all of this. What Saul thought was a donkey hunt became the beginning of his anointing as king over all Israel (Brueggemann, p. 76.)

D. Preferential Treatment by Samuel: I Samuel 9:18-27.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 9:17-21.

Q How did Samuel know about the donkeys?

Q What did that prove to Saul about Samuel?

Q According to 9:21 is Saul aggressively seeking position or honor?

An = He certainly is caught off guard. His modest response could be interpreted as appropriate politeness or that Saul is really a bit shy and not a very aggressive or self-confident man.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 9:22-27.

Note: Samuel gives Saul great courtesy: he sees that he gets special food and show concern over his lodging, etc. Samuel knows what Saul does not: namely that Saul will be a king and so Samuel treats him well.

E. Anointing and Proof of Anointing: the Giving of the Three Signs:

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 10:1-8.

Q What are the three signs that are given to Saul?

An = 1) The meeting of the two men at Rachel's tomb who will speak about the found donkey (10:2). 2) The meeting of the three men going to Bethel who will give him two loaves (10:3,4). 3) The meeting of the group of men who are prophesying and that Saul will join them (10:5-6).

Q Why did Samuel give these signs to Saul? What did they do for him?

An = They seem to be for the confirming in Saul's mind that what is said in 10:1 by Samuel is true. It was such a far-fetched thing from being a country kid to a king that Saul needed the confirmation.

Q What are the place of signs in our lives today?

Q Do people still have them? Have you ever heard of someone being given a sign as a confirmation to do a particular task?

An = If you wish you could share a sign if one has happened in your own life. Try and keep the discussion on track. The issue is about a sign for a task for delivering others, not a chance to share every para-psychological experience that everyone has had.

F. A Changed Man: A Spiritual Anointing. I Samuel 10:9-13.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 10:9-13.

Note: It is the third sign that draws the attention of our author. He elaborates on this one only, c.f. 9:9. Let us see what is so important about this particular experience.

Q Why is it important that Saul has a changed heart?

Q Who changed his heart? Can we earn such a change?

An = God changed Saul's heart and he did not earn it. It is grace that calls. We know of nothing that Saul did to deserve the "call".

Note: It ancient Hebrew the word "prophesying" refers to ecstatic behavior or charismatic behavior. What form it took in those days is not fully clear but Saul' joining them caused quite a surprise to his community. What is clear is that Saul has been truly spiritually anointed as well as personally anointed by the prophet Samuel (10:1). In between the two anointings has come the confirming signs that let Saul know he is to be king.

Q Does such "charismatic behavior" cause you alarm? Would it scare you to do what some believers seem so free in doing? (Speaking in tongues, etc.)

An = The Bible does not condemn such behavior, that is clear from this text, but notice it is sympathetic to those who are a bit surprised by it as well.

Note: So far our text has told us that Samuel knows with double confirmation (9:16,17) that Saul is the man for the job of kingship and Saul knows he is the man with the confirmation of the three signs and the experience of prophesying with the prophets.

Q Do you think this would convince you to take on such a monumental task if you were in Saul's situation?

An = Let's see.

G. A Quiet Man Stays Quiet.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 10:14-16.

Q Does Saul tell all of the truth? Why not?

An = After their answers have been given then if they haven't come up with the idea that some people are by nature shy, share this. Saul was a quiet man (see 10:22) it seems naturally and he was not willing to share with his uncle these strange happenings about kingship. This might seem odd, but when you think about it, this is quite in keeping with how things really happen.

Note: God has called a man. Someone of authority in the things of God (Samuel) has chosen him (Saul) and this has been confirmed privately to that man of God twice (Samuel) and three times in highly personal ways to the man called of God (Saul).

This is private confirmation. This is step one.

Note: Next week we will look at step two and step three.

I Samuel 8 | Lesson # 9 | SEEKING FALSE SECURITY

2008-08-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

I Samuel 8 lesson # 9

SEEKING FALSE SECURITY

I. Greetings: We are going to study chapter 8 and it must be born in mind as Brueggemann p. 61 mentions that there "is a long time between chapters 7 and 8." Much time has passed and we are approaching the end of Samuel's leadership. We are approaching a time of transition of power, a time that naturally causes anxiety.

II. Introduction: Setting the Scene: Worry about the Future/Amateur Providence

RQ Have you worried about the future lately?

Q What are some of the big-things you worry about?

An See if they will share. You might need to share one or two things from your life if necessary, then ask them if similar things worry them. (Share briefly, your real concern is to get them thinking and sharing along these lines, not give them extensive biography about yourself.

Q Does worry help?

Note: Israel, had enjoyed great success under Samuel's leadership but they began to worry about the future and were tempted to become an Amateur Providence. (An Amateur Providence is when we as humans, who certainly amateurs decide to tell God that we can plan our lives a bit better than He can. After all what does He know? Lets see what caused their anxiety, and tempted them to want to control their own destiny.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 8:1-3.

Q What was the worry Israel could be tempted to have?

An = They saw bad times coming in the prospect of Samuel's sons being the new leaders. >>> Have someone read Deuteronomy 16:18-20. The question of corrupt leadership always hurts and sets back the believing community. However, for Israel, the foundation of their society was founded on the concepts of God's will and He is "Just". They were saved by Yahweh and founded on Yahweh's character and action. He is a God that models servant-leadership. The purpose of leadership is to serve not to be served. Samuel's sons have betrayed the purpose of leadership but their injustice. Their actions have caused distrust of the old ways: they remember the disaster of the leadership of Eli's corrupt sons. They do not want a repeat of failure.

III. The Request for a King: I Samuel 8:4-18.

A. The Request Proper: I Samuel 8:4-6.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:4-6.

Q Why did the elders want a king?

An = See I Samuel 8:5: you are old and your sons are not like you.

Q Did they have a right to be concerned?

An = Yes!

Q Was Samuel upset over the critique of his sons or because of their request?

An = According to I Samuel 8:6 only with their request. Samuel did not contest the critique of his sons.

Q Is it important in a leadership position to separate our ego (critique of his sons) and the real issue at hand (wanting a king)?

Note: There was a long history of Israel not having kings. The judge Gideon refused kingship because of specific reasons. >>> Have someone read Judges 8:23.<<< God was to be their King! Also, the destructive disaster of Abimelech's short-lived and brutal kingship is condemned (Judges 9). It is also interesting to note that Abimelech was the son of a Canaanite concubine (Judges 8:31). So it was not native to Israel to want a king. The pagan nations around them did practice this type of government (Gordon p. 109).

B. God's Response to the Request: I Samuel 8:7-9.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 8:7-9.

Q What is God's basic response?

An = Let as many answers be given without comment. Then point out that in 8:7 and 8:9 is the word: "listen". God's basic answer is that Samuel is to let them have their way: Samuel is to listen to the voice of the people. Verses 8:7 and 8:8 are given to Samuel.

Q What two reservations/observations about Israel's request does God have in 8:7,8?

An = 1) The problem with the monarchy is not political but theological. Israel was rejecting God from being King over them. God does not want Samuel to take it personally, but to see that the rejection is aimed at God and not Samuel. 2) This new rejection was not new or foreign to the character of Israel. Just a quick reading of Judges or Israel's attitude during the book of Exodus is indication that this type of behavior is typical of Israel (Brueggemann p. 62). It is not the having of a "king" per-se, but that the "king" is a new substitute for the Lord, a new twist in idolatry (Davis, p. 82). The Israelites had experienced failure of other types of leadership: priesthood (Eli's sons), judges (Samuel son's), kings (Abimelech). The real issue is the king being a substitute for trusting in Yahweh (Davis, p. 83). This behavior God says is typical and not aimed specifically at Samuel. God wants Samuel not to go into depression, but to understand that he is experiencing rejection because he is in charge now and not because he is incompetent. God does not want Samuel emotionally destroyed.

Q What is Samuel commanded to tell Israel in 8:9?

An = He is to warn them and let them know the ways (customs) of what will happen to them if they pursue a king. God wants them to know what they are getting into. This is not sour grapes on God's part but typical of His ways of doing things (Brueggemann p. 63).

Q Does it surprise you that God gave into their request?

An = God demands from us the our best. He calls us to have faith even when the future is not something we can see will be good, but He calls to trust Him and His ways of doing things. God does demand but He does not usually compel. This is true both of an individual or of a church. He will warn but not coerce.

Note: In chapter four the substitute for trusting in God was the ark and now in chapter eight the substitute is a king (Davis, p. 84).

Q Why is it so hard for people to put their trust in God?

An = Perhaps, it was never intended to be easy. Also, it is so natural for us to trust anything that "we control" and we cannot control God.

C. The Customs of a King: The Warning. I Samuel 8:10-18.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 8:10-18.

Q What will the king take from the people in 8:11-13?

An = He will take their sons and daughters and use them for his own needs.

Q What will the king take from the people in 8:14-15?

An = He will amass wealth by taking their land and impose takes on what land they still control. He will use their wealth to give gifts to those who are his bidders. Poor leadership always gives away what is not theirs.

Q Is this done today? Does it happen to today that resources given by leaders to their friends to shore up their political position, etc. but they give what belongs to others?

An = It does not take too much time to find examples of that today in congress.

Q What is taken from the people in I Samuel 8:16-17?

An = Their servants and their herds. Notice that in 8:11,13,14,15,16,17 there is the verb to "take". Such centralized government is characterized by such "taking".

Note: The book of Samuel is about leadership and we have seen examples of leadership in Eli (chapter 2) and Samuel (chapter 7) and now we are seeing a whole type of leadership (kingship) defined and condemned. I Samuel 8 is clearly saying leadership that seeks to serve itself instead of serving is wrong (Brueggemann p. 64). Those leaders that demand "perks" and think it "natural" are wrong. Think of the CEO's in America that are encouraging "take-overs" in the name of "being competitive" and yet acquire enormous salaries while countless people lose their jobs.

>>>> Have someone re-read I Samuel 8:18.

Q What is scary about this verse?

An = For one, it came true. Notice when Israel served the Lord and was attacked in chapter 7 they did quite well militarily. Their real security lay in their vulnerability: in their vulnerability of trust in God. Now they seek control over their destiny. They want a process like others have and thus forfeit their special ability to call upon the Lord.

Q Can this happen in our personal lives? How?

An = I have heard people tell me when crisis hits their lives that they know that they have little ability to pray. They sense that others have such an ability and they are certain that they do not. They are sadly correct. They are the folks who trusted in the things and thinking of men.

Q What can be done for people like this? What would you tell them?

An = Perhaps, tell them, if they are open, that they need to start some where and so should start now.

Q Can this in ability to get God to answer happen in a church? How?

An = Is the seeking of security wise? How has our church been tempted to do this?

Note: Have you ever noticed how even evangelical churches will do this by looking for a new gimmick rather than looking for a new heart in repentance. We are willing to change methods than just seeking God (Davis, p. 84).

Q As an individual seeks security in the ways of the world what do they forfeit?

An = The ability to pray to God and be heard. Listen to what God said to the believers in Jeremiah's day: >>> Have someone read Jeremiah 7:12-15. Then have someone read Jeremiah 15:1.<<

III. The Response of the People: I Samuel 8:19-22.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 8:19-22.

Q According to I Samuel 8:20 what is the reason for the people seeking a king?

An = 1) Military security. The last battle they had won was with a godly leader who prayed and God heard. Now they are warned that God will not hear if they chose a king. It is interesting that they think that some how by proper organization, like that of other nations, they can do without the "answering of God". In their view, proper organization preempts the need for God's help". 2) They wanted to be like other nations, after all one must keep up with the "Iron Age" and they have kings so we should have them too (Davis, p. 85).

Note: So many people today that education will solve everything, but notice that God did tell Samuel to "educate" them but it did stop them. "Education can clarify but education cannot transform" (II Thessalonians 2:10) (Davis, p. 88). Davis calls it the "education fallacy".

Q What did Samuel do in such a distressing and disappointing situation?

An = He took his pain to the Lord. This is what we always need to do instead of getting mad, or doing something rash, or even worse: quitting. The Lord was going to use Samuel in the future and Israel needed him and it would have been disastrous for Israel and would be abandoning his role to serve his Lord if he had not been present. Remember, he is the one who will anoint David. Don't quit, pray!

Note: The Lord's response is to "listen to the voice of the people and do what they want". It is hard to do this but such is the "ego-death" that our job as ministers or leaders in the church, or leaders in our families demand. It is the Lord's will to listen to the people some times.

Note: The chapter ends oddly. Samuel tells them to go home. We will learn in the future that Samuel will indeed obey His Lord. However, Samuel is certainly not the people's puppet. He has boldly confronted them with the danger of their choice, and he does not immediately jump to find them a king. He does not make all of his decisions based on good theology, or logical deductions from his own views (as good as they are), but he too, listens to the dynamic voice of God. As disastrous as their choice is going to be, it will still produce David.

I SAMUEL 7 | Lesson # 8 | The True Path To Victory: Prayer

2008-08-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

I SAMUEL 7 lesson # 8

The True Path To Victory: Prayer

I. Greetings:

II. Introduction:

Note: Israel had suffered great defeat at the beginning of chapter 4 and then the Philistines found out that their understanding of the ark was incorrect. They may have won the battle, but were devastated by the ark when they thought they had captured it.

Q What had the Philistines misunderstood about the ark?

An = It had a mind of Its own. It was extremely powerful and was attended by great miraculous powers. Why it had allowed itself to be captured they did not understand, but it certainly was not weak.

Q What had the Israelites misunderstood about the ark?

An = You cannot "twist God's arm, even if you have His furniture" (D.R. Davis, pp. 52-53). Davis speaks of people having "Rabbit-foot" theology. The ark is not a good-luck charm, and God is not someone you can manipulate. It allowed Israel to be defeated when they tried to "use" it, it ravaged Philistia when they were arrogant, and it struck down and killed many Israelites when they tried to show contempt for it with their curiosity. God is dangerous to try and manipulate like a science-experiment or a rabbit's foot.

>>>> Lets read I Samuel 7:2.

Q What does this mean?

An = Israel felt estranged from the Lord. The ark was not moved back to Shiloh, it was destroyed, but it stayed at Kiriath Jearim. We cannot draw near to God with such attitudes, and so the people finally experienced what was already the case. The crisis of the Philistine war revealed what the true spiritual condition of the people was. Notice they sought but did not find any way to approach the Lord successfully.

III. Getting Back to God, Following His Word: I Samuel 7:3-4.

Note: When we are away from God, it is amazing how clearly God has communicated His truth, but how little we take Him seriously.

Q What are the first two of the Ten Commandments?

An = >>> Turn to Exodus 20:2-4 and read together. The first two commandments are: "No other gods before me", and "make no images". Now lets read what Samuel did.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:3-4.

Q What had the Israelites been doing?

An = They had been living a corrupt religious experience and were seeking the Lord while they were doing idolatry. It is like a young man being upset that his girl friend will not talk to him, and the whole time he is with other women. God deeply loves His people and He brooks not rivals. He will not share our loyalty with other things. >>> Read Psalms 16:2,4.

Note: The blessing of good leadership is that is firmly brings things back into focus so that the people could be blessed. Notice, Samuel shows them the cost of following God and lets them make the decision. "If you are returning to the Lord will all your hearts, then...." God leadership has to give decisive direction on the essential issues. This issue is not one of minor opinion, but the opening key elements in the Ten Commandments and in dealing with and pleasing Almighty God.

Note: When we long after God, truly long after Him, He will respond with a call to loyalty. He does wish to be involved with us, but it must be on His terms. He cannot be God if we are telling Him the terms.

>>>> Turn to Matthew 10:37-38 and have someone read these two verses.

Q Is Jesus any different than His Father?

Q What are the key issues Jesus says can be rivals to Him?

An = Family.

Note: The scholars are not sure how much time elapses between what is taking place in 7:3-4 and the coming event in 7:5 and following. I Samuel 7:3-4 may be a summary of Samuel's ministry over a long period of time. It could be a condensation of Samuel's preaching (Davis, p. 70).

Note: There are three main reasons that are possibly responsible for Israel being involved with the idols of those around them. 1) Peer pressure, everyone else (these older cultures) is doing it and we as humans are naturally religious and superstitious, 2) the Canaanite fertility cults had sexual practices with temple prostitutes built into the worship itself. 3) They were contacting some type of "power" and perhaps there seemed to be an advantage economically to appeasing the gods who gave increase to their crops and herds. It was to their advantage, or so they were tempted to believe, to placate these gods. To stand firm with God often seems very costly.

IV. Coming Together for Worship at Mizpah: 7:5-13

A. Ceremony of Repentance: I Samuel 7:5-6.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:5-6.

Note: Most every scholar admits that they do not know what "pouring out water" ceremony before the Lord means. There are three major proposals: 1) water = tears of repentance, 2) it speaks of abstinence, they were willing to go with out one of the necessities of life to show their seriousness in prayer, or 3) it was ritual saying they believed Yahweh was the true fertility God.

Note: Of more importance is the clear pattern in Scripture: Repentance can begin with sorrow and grief (7:2), followed by ceremony, but it must entail action. There is call to action here. Davis reminds us that genuine repentance must have a tangible aspect to it (Davis, p. 70). Note: It was after they had got rid of their idols that they could assemble at Mizpah and make confession (7:6). Confession without action would be meaningless.

>>>> Turn to Luke 19:5-10 and have someone read these six verses.

Note: Notice this man had a tangible means of expressing his repentance. It was action and confession combined that prompts Jesus to pronounce the arrival of salvation.

B. Crisis Caused by Corporate Worship: I Samuel 7:7-9.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:7-9.

Q What caused the Philistines to attack?

An = The Israelite gathering for worship. You can count on opposition from Evil when we gather to worship and especially when we gather to confess.

Q What does Israel do this time when they are facing defeat from the Philistines?

An = They pray. Before they tried to "use" God and now they "talk" to Him.

Q When we face crisis why do we often try to manipulate God (chapter 4) instead of just praying (chapter 7)?

An = It seems so simple but there is a huge difference in "planning evangelism" or doing the right "approaches", using just the right "music", etc. instead of just going directly to God and saying: please help me.

Note: They understand that Samuel will have more power in prayer than themselves and so Samuel intercedes for them. Good leadership give biblical direction to the people and effectively prays for them. You would be amazed how little leadership truly "cries out" to the Lord in behalf of the people. They, of course, pray, but to truly intercede for the people is another thing. Notice, the end of 7:9: "and the Lord answered him". We deeply need such leaders.

C. God Involved with the Crisis: I Samuel 7:10-13.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:10-13.

Q What happened? Who brought the victory?

An = It was all God. There act was to repent in emotion and in deed and then to ask.

Note: As we have said many times before, the book of Samuel is carefully written, let us note a careful (but subtle) pattern between chapters 4 and 7.

Chapter 4 Chapter 7

A. Israel "struck down" Philistines "struck down"

(Hebrew: nagap) 4:2,3,10 (Hebrew: nagap) 7:10

B. Manipulation Repentance

"Let it save" 4:3 "Let Him deliver/save" 7:3,8

C. Philistines hear Philistines hear

4:6 7:7

D. Result: Result:

"Ichabod" 4:21 "Ebenezer" 7:12

Note: This is Davis' chart (p. 73) and he says the author of Samuel wants us to see the clear difference between "dabbling in religious magic (chap 4)" and "walking by sheer faith". "Their only weapon is prayer...."

Q What does this mean for our group, for our church, or for our family?

Q What do specifically need to pray for in our church or community?

Q Is God the same as He was in the days of Samuel?

An = I believe God is the same and Davis gives another good bit of advice: "More and more God's people must walk the way of desperation-prayer. Once we see this, we will no longer regard prayer as a pious cop-out but as our only rational activity" (Davis, p. 74).

Note: Samuel is the subject of all the main action in this chapter. Note 7:3, 5, 6b, 9, 10, 12, 15. Good leadership is important according to our text.

Note: Samuel directed the people to erect a stone and call it Ebenezer, meaning thus far it has been God who has helped us.

Q Why set up such stones what do they do that is positive?

An = It helps us focus on who really brought us victory. It helps us focus on gratitude for His grace. An old saint once told me mother: "We will need 10,000 years in heaven just to catch up in praise and thanksgiving." It has been a blessing to just say thank you.

V. After the Crisis: I Samuel 7:14-17.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:14-17.

Q Why does the author tell us about Samuel's activity after the great victory?

An = Samuel was a "shield to Israel" (Davis p.77). Also, good leadership needs to continue to provide direction and see that fairness and justice continues in the community: that is what "judges" implies.

I Samuel 5-6 | lesson # 7 | No Other Gods Before Me

2008-07-25T11:35:00.000-07:00

SAMUEL 5 AND 6 lesson # 7

I. Greetings:

II. Introduction:

Q Can anyone describe the ark of the covenant? What did it look like and how big was it?

An = If there is a chalk or white board present let someone attempt to draw it, or select someone with strong self-esteem and pick on them to draw it. If nothing is present with which to illustrate the ark, let them verbally describe it. It was basically a rectangular box (approximately 2 1/4 feet by 2 1/4 wide by 3 3/4 feet long) with a lid of gold. On top of the box were two cherubim (angels, lions???) who faced each other with outstretched wings towards one another that did not touch. The box was made of acadia wood and overlaid with gold. Inside of the box was apparently Moses's staff, a jar of manna, and the tablets of Moses' law. On the corners of the ark were four rings where two poles could put placed so that four Levites could carry the ark.

Note: The ark was considered to be "place of His presence" and "the ark of the covenant or testimony". In other words, the Israelites associated the ark with His invisible presence where Yahweh could be approached in prayer: presumably between the four outstretched wings of the ark was a space where the wings did not quite touch. It was also the reminder of the covenant and so was a reminder of how Israel was related to God on the basis of the Ten Commandments. The reason the Israelites wanted the ark at the battle between the Philistines and themselves was to guarantee Yahweh' presence for their victory. They might not have figured on the fact that it was also a reminder of their "covenant relationship" based on the Ten Commandments. We will look at this idea later.

Q Based on what we read last week of the massive defeat suffered by Israel after the ark arrived would the average observer has regarded the ark as very powerful?

An = Objectively no! The Philistines relied on a pep-talk and the Israelites relied on the ark and got slaughtered. slaughtered. Perhaps, it is merely a box. Lets read more about this symbol of God's presence.

III. The Ark in Philistia: A Rough Seven Months. I Samuel 5:1-12.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 5:1-5.

Q How many times did Dagon "fall down".

An = twice.

Q What did the falling down of Dagon represent?

An = The ark was placed before Dagon as a representation of Dagon's victory over the Israelite people and its gods. What happens when the people come in the morning though is that the symbolization is reversed.

Note: Dagon in myths we have discovered was reported to have been the father of Baal.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 5:6-9.

Q How many cities were struck with the plague (tumors/hemorrhoids/?)?

An = Two cities. The ark was causing havack in the cities and according to those of Ashdon causing havack on their god Dagon (5:7). There is quite a discussion as to what type of plague the cities were struck with. We know it included mice or rats and that the Hebrew word translated tumors or hemorrhoids is a rare word. We also know that it caused "panic" or "confusion". What is clear is that these victorious cities were being devastated by the weak God of Israel.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 5:10-12.

Q What did the people of Philistia decide to do?

An = To get rid of this ark before it got rid of them.

IV. Traveling Home: More Miracles and More Destruction. I Samuel 6:1-21.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 6:1-9.

Q What is the proposal for sending the ark back?

An = 1) The Philistines are trying to appease Yahweh. They had little trouble with Israel's armies but were having excessive trouble with Israel's God. They sent golden offerings of five "somethings" and five mice. 2) Then they prepared a test again for Yahweh. Notice 6:7 and 6:9.

Note: It seems that the Philistines were not overly superstitious. They knew that the plague could be attributed to chance or natural causes. They wanted a further sign that this was indeed the hand of the Lord on them through the ark. Perhaps, they had not been told the stories of the falling down of Dagon in the temple. What concerned them now was their physical safety.

Q What type of test is to place two lactating mammals in one direction and tie up their off spring in another?

An = They knew it would have to be divine for a nursing mammal to voluntarily walk away from its young. They were looking for another sign to make sure the plagues were not mere coincidence.

Note: The reason for hauling the ark on the "new cart" instead of carrying with poles as the Levites did was probably due to the Philistine custom of carrying their gods on a "new cart" that had never been used. It was their way of showing respect. It was not the way the ark was to be carried by the Israelites (or why else the golden rings for the poles).

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 6:10-16.

Q Did the ark prove to be powerful again? Did the ark pass the test?

An = Yes, the oxen went straight into Israelite territory. The people of Bethshemesh were excited. Note that the story is told with such descriptive power (Gordon p. 92). Notice the oxen lowed as they went and when the cart arrived at people of Bethshemesh wer reapoing their wheat harvest and looked up....

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 6:17-18.

Q Were the Bethshemites religiously observant?

An = Yes they were. Now notice the strange part of the story that follows.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 6:19-21.

Q Is this disturbing? Why?

Q Why did God kill so many Israelites?

An = It seems that Israelites of Bethshemesh were sort of brain-dead or thought they could be curiously about the ark because they had done a religious thing in 6:18 with their religious monument. They blasphemed by looking into the ark and found that their nationality did not seem to help them much with the ark.

Q Are their people today that think God loves them so much more than others that they can be cavalier with the things of God?

An = Some nationalities think this. So people think that their denomination is superior and so they are arrogant with the things of God. Many times seminary students are this way. It is dangerous behavior. It seems God is no respector of persons.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 5:8 and then 6:20.

Q What do these two speeches have in common?

An = Both of these groups have much in common in their attitude towards encountering the holiness of God. It is dangerous and they want distance from the Lord of Glory. At least the Israelites understand that God is holy as well as dangerous.

PASS OUT THE CHART ENCLOSED OR MAKE A TRANSPARENCEY OF IT AND SHOW THOSE PRESENT.

Note: There are roughly seven stories about the ark in I Samuel 5-6. In the first story the ark seems amazingly impotent. The next stories are amazingly opposite. Dealing with the ark is a dangerous business. Power is eluded in strong fashion against other gods, pagan Philistines and Israelites as well.

Q Why was the ark so impotent when the Israelites were so strong in believing in its power in I Samuel 4:4-11?

An = Notice two main issues. 1) No where does it say that the Israelites prayed in I Samuel 4. They got together and came up with some good about getting some religious help. They believed in the symbol but were not speaking with the Lord who is behind the symbol. Remember, God is person, not electricity or a "source of power" to be manipulated. He will answer our humble prayers, He will not be manipulated. He is dangerous and holy, but seemingly silent and impotent to those who try to "use" Him or "manipulate". In fact, to those who attempt to manipulate Him He brought on them disaster (I Samuel 4:4-11).

2) The second thing is that if we remember that the ark is the Ark of the Covenant" and inside of the ark is the Ten Commandments. These were designed to regulate the relationship with the Lord and show the people how to be around Him. The Ten Commandments were the guide to help the people know what the terms of the covenant with this powerful God were.

Q What were the first two commandments?

An = No other gods before Me and no idols.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 7:1-4.

I SAMUEL 4 | lesson # 6 | DEALING WITH GOD'S POWER SYMBOLS OF FAITH

2008-07-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

I SAMUEL 4 lesson # 6

DEALING WITH GOD'S POWER SYMBOLS OF FAITH

I. Greetings:

II. Introduction:

Note: Among secular historians one of the major breaks or dividing lines in history occurs at 1200 B.C. It begins what historians call the Iron Age. It was when Iron was invented (the age before was the Bronze Age).

Q If one had a sword of Iron and a sword of bronze? Who would have the advantage?

An = Iron dents bronze in a sword fight. The fellow with a sword of bronze would see his weapon cut in half.

Q Guess who had Iron and who did not?

An = The Philistines did and the Israelites did not. The Philistines had advanced weapons technology and they were a highly organized, militaristic people. Israelites had no king and were basically farmers. The Philistines were probably a part of the famous "Sea Peoples" that were migrating sometime near 1200 B.C. They were organized around five major cities.

III. The Two Battles: I Samuel 1:1-11.

Q Do men in uniform pray? Why?

An = In crisis we often look for something greater than ourselves because death is so near.

Q How many of you prayed before you were Christians about some crises?

Q What was the result? Did God answer?

An = Could some of you share or tell us your story.

Note: <<Carefully note these. There are some that received answers, amazing answers because they sincerely prayed and some who did only the ritual of prayer only. Do not comment on their stories, only take careful note of what is said.>> Tell them we will come back to this theme later.

A. The First Battle: I Samuel 4:1-3.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:1-3.

Q After the serious defeat, what did the Israelites propose to do?

An = Bring the Ark of the Covenant. The ark Moses was commanded to make.

Q Why did the Israelites want the ark according to I Samuel 4:3?

An = Because the presence of the ark would give them victory. They believed if it was there then God would be in their midst.

Q Did the Israelites believe God had defeated them in battle?

An = This is what they say in 4:3. Remember this, I believe this is the key to understanding chapters 4-6, but we will come back to this later too!!

B. The Second Battle: I Samuel 4:4-11.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:4-8.

Q Which important priests were carrying the ark?

An = Phinehas and Hophni

Q What do we know about these guys?

An = They were corrupt and the unknown prophet (man of God) of chapter 2 had predicted their deaths.

Q Was Israel excited when the ark arrived?

An = According to 4:5, their shouts resounded every where.

Q Was there a momentum swing?

An = Yes.

Q How important is momentum in battle, especially hand to hand combat?

An = Extremely important! Think how important momentum is in a physical contact sport like football. Think how important momentum is in basketball, also a physical demanding sport. Hand to hand combat in the ancient world was deeply dependent on morale or momentum.

Q On the face of things, does religion figure very prominently in battle morale?

An = Yes, it seems to very important here. <>

Note: The Philistines had bad theology. They viewed the Israelite religion, which was monotheistic (Only one God), in light of their own polytheistic beliefs (many gods). See 4:8 where they attribute the ark as "gods".

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:9-11.

Note: Is not 4:9 very similar to a locker room pep-talk? Knute Rockney of Philistia gave a good "half-time" pep-talk and they reversed the mental momentum back that Israel acquired though bring the Ark of the Covenant, representing the very presence of God.

Q Who won the battle?

Note: It seems that good pep-talks, appealing to national pride are better motivators than trust in religious truths like: "God is with us". Strange story, but so typically biblical.

Q What happened to the corrupt priests?

An = Have someone read to the group I Samuel 2:33-34. When God's Word speaks, it happens in history. It may take time, here it appears to have taken decades, but God's Word (and justice He predicts) will prevail.

Q What happened to the Ark?

Q What does this story imply about the holiness and power of religious objects like the ark?

An = See 4:11. It appears that the Ark of the Covenant is weak. This also lowers the reputation of Israel's God, who made the covenant.

IV. The Report of the Battle: 4:12-22.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:12-15.

Q Why was Eli's heart trembling or disturbed in anticipation according to 4:13?

An = For the ark of God. Eli is a grey character. He is both blind spiritually (or with dim eyes, see what your author says in 4:15), and yet he was used of God with Hannah and he gave Samuel good advice. However, his leadership had lead Israel into spiritual ruin. Eli is a nice guy who certainly loves the things of God, is moral himself, but an imperceptive ruler, who did not disciple those under him, and therefore destructive to the nation. Eli is not all black, not white, but grey.

Q Why does the author mention Eli's eyes again?

An = See I Samuel 3:2, eyes are mentioned. Now turn to Deuteronomy 34:7 and read together. Eyes are the organs of perception. Eyes represent to biblical authors the perceptive capacity of their owners.

Q Is it good that a man is more interested in the ark of God, than the people or his own sons?

An = Tough question, huh? Is it not good to be concerned with the articles that represents God's presence. Yet are religious articles more important than people?

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:16-18.

Q According to 4:18 what news caused Eli's death?

An = The capture of the ark, not the death of his sons. The text is very clear about this.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 4:19-22.

Note: The word "Ichabod" means "no glory". Her concern seems to be caused by three factors: the death of husband, Eli, and the capture of the ark.

Q Was Phinehas' wife correct?

An = No! His glory had been rare for years, but was already returning through Samuel. To the family of the Priesthood the key to God's presence was the ark, the symbols of God. But the Bible disagrees. It the hearing of His Word. Besides, see 4:1 a. (If time allows take them back to 3:1, the Word of the Lord is rare, to then 3:21, the Word of the Lord was becoming more frequent, to 4:1a, where the word was coming through Samuel. According to the narrator, the nation was in better condition than before.

Q Did Phinehas' wife agree?

An = No, not to her.

Note: Go back to our discussion of those who prayed before they were Christians. They might have been heard because they actually "talked" to God instead of just "doing religion". The difference is between talking to God and doing a prayer. The difference is between relationship and magic: real prayer or manipulation.

Q Were the priestly family, Eli, Phinehas's wife serious about religion?

An = Yes, deeply so! Many people are today.

Q Did it help the people, or please God, or was their concern God's concern?

An = No. The priests and the people were religious (see how the author wrote the chapter: 4:5, 4:13, 4:18, 4:21-22), but this had nothing to do with God. It seems that the most irreligious person in the book of I Samuel is God.

Q What could this mean for us today?

I Samuel 3:1-21 | lesson # 5 | THE CALL OF GOD

2008-07-11T11:32:00.000-07:00

I Samuel 3:1-21 lesson # 5

THE CALL OF GOD

I. Greetings.

II. Introduction. The Condition of Israel: I Samuel 3:1-3.

Q What is a spiritual revival?

Q Why are they needed? Do churches, groups, cities, nations get dry?

Q What causes the dry times?

Note: I Samuel opens at a time in Israel's history when there was a need, a desperate need for spiritual revival. Lets see how I Samuel describes it.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:1.

Q What was rare in those days?

An = The revelation of God's will & direction for the community: no word, no visions. He did not communicate. There is not a good relationship if there is no communication.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:2-3.

Note: The Bible is carefully written, and words are used carefully. One key group of words used often in the Bible are the words used for sight. They often double for the spiritual/mental concept of perception. Eyes (and words clustered around `eyes') refer to perception or understanding. We do this in English as well: "Now I see".

Q So, what could be meant in I Samuel 3:2 about Eli?

An = He did not perceive the spiritual condition of his nation, nor perceive the spiritual direction God desired (see 3:1).

Note: See 3:3 where the "Lamp of God" does refer to a real lamp in the Temple, but it could also symbolize the spiritual life of Israel. It could mean that their spiritual life was almost extinguished.

Q According to chapter 2, what was a key cause of Israel's lack of receiving a "word from the Lord"?

An = corrupt leadership.

Q If corrupt leadership is the cause, what can be the remedy?

An = New leadership. New leadership is not a humanly engineered thing. I believe it comes from God. Let me show you why I think this is so.

II. The Call of Samuel: I Samuel 3:4-14.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:4-9.

Q Do kids call out at night?

An = See if some could tell stories that they know. Mine did. They often wanted water. Eli no doubt thinks Samuel is a little boy who is alone and afraid at night and is calling out. It says Eli is almost blind, but eventually he "sees" or perceives what is happening to the child.

Note: The little boy is an obedient lad. Learning to obey our proper human authorities is good practice to hearing from God when He speaks. The child who has not learned that lesson well could also have deep difficulties with learning how to obey God.

Q Did Eli give good advice?

An = It was excellent advice. In Hebrew the word for "listen" is the same word to denote "obey". Samuel is being told: "Tell God you want Him to speak, to communicate, because you are willing to hear and to obey." Eli could not have given better advice for dealing with Almighty God. Notice now what happens....

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:10-14.

Note: Remember last week when we discussed our responsibility in disciplining our children? Eli corrected them but did not restrain them. Therefore, Eli's house is doomed.

Q Who is Eli? How important was he in the nation?

An = He was like the Pope. In fact, he was more than the Pope, he was the official head of the nation. He was the only "pan-Israelite" leader at that time.

Q How do you think the child felt hearing this about his boss, especially when his boss was the most important person in the nation and the news was so bad?

An = I am sure this was a very intimidating thing to hear. Eli had been quite good to him and given him good spiritual advice.

III. Confirming The Call: I Samuel 3:15-21.

A. Samuel's Action: I Samuel 3:15-18.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:15-18.

Q Was the priest threatening the little boy to get the full information?

An = He most certainly was! This is quite a threat to drop on a little child. In Hebrew what Eli literally says is "May God do to you and more (no doubt the bad news) if you hide anything from me." Eli really wanted to know and Eli seemed to have anticipated the negative possibilities of the message.

Note: Samuel told everything.

Q Are you surprised at Eli's response to the bad news?

Q Why was he not angry at Samuel for bearing such bad news?

An = 1) As wrong as Eli was in not restraining his own children he still was not a totally bad man. He did want to know the message and he was willing to accept it. 2) Probably Eli was able to handle the news because it matched what Eli had already heard from the `man of God'(see I Samuel 2:27-34). If God is truly speaking it will often be confirmed again.

Q Was it fair to have a little boy, receive a "call from God" and then be plunged into a terrible crisis by having to tell the man who is in charge of your life that his future was doomed? Why do this kind of thing to a little boy?

An = In WWII planes coming of the air craft carriers of stressed the plans right away as they left the deck. If the plane was going to fail they wanted to know then. To be a bearer of the Word of God is a stress. People will not often like to hear the truth about their sins or failures. Samuel was shone right away "the ropes". He learned right away that the key to spiritual success as a minister of God's truth was the need to stand against the power structure of one's life. To be a prophet, necessitated courage as well as obedience. Every time one is called they are immediately put to the test. You will watch this happen right on through the books of Samuel.

Q Did Samuel pass the test?

An = Yes, and he therefore shows that he is totally different than Eli's sons. There is a changing of the guard here, the passing of the baton of leadership, based on obedience. Spiritual leadership is passing from Eli to Samuel.

>>>> Have everyone turn to Matthew 7:21-23 and have someone read these verses.

Note: God has not changed in all these years. To work for Him necessitates obedience and the courage to not "play to the crowds" or our "fleshly desires".

B. God's Action: I Samuel 3:19-21.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 3:19-21.

Note: Remember last week when we discussed the word "great". Eli's sons were great in sin and Samuel was growing "great" in the service of God. In 3:19 we see he continues to grow and continues to grow great.

Note: God began to back up Samuel's words (3:19 b).

Note: Israel began to note the difference (3:20).

Q What is the difference between 3:21 and 3:1?

An = The word was rare in 3:1 and was now being given again in 3:21.

Q What is the difference between 3:1 and 3:21 that now has the Lord speaking to His people again?

An = Samuel is the difference: obedient leadership.

Q Who called Samuel?

An = God. It is God who calls.

>>>> Have everyone turn to Matthew 9:37-38 and have someone read these two verses.

Close in prayer.

I Samuel 2:12-36 | Lesson # 4 | POOR LEADERSHIP: NEGATIVE MODEL

2008-07-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

I Samuel 2:12-36 Lesson # 4

POOR LEADERSHIP: NEGATIVE MODEL

I. Greetings.

II. Crooked Ministers: I Samuel 2:12-17.

Q Who has met a crooked ministers?

Q How were they crooked?

Note: The Bible is not a pro-minister (priest) book, nor it is anti-clergy. It does not try to cover up the facts though, but presents the truth as it is. It talks openly about poor clergy because they actually exist and we must learn how to deal with them and what God thinks about them. So...

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:12-17.

Note: As Americans living in this century, we are not familiar with the priestly sacrificial customs of that time, but these priests were clearly abusing power and privilege.

Note: It is the abuse of power that will dominate the agenda when I and II Samuel talks about sin. The Samuel books are books about leadership and how to handle power and how not to handle it.

Q Why is abuse of power so sinful?

An = God is the creator and in regard to power he is unbridled in His strength. With His great power he shows us the pattern of what is good and so with His power He serves. (Jesus came to serve not to be served and in creation God made the world for us.) He wants the same attitude out of those who represent Him.

III. Samuel Interlude: I Samuel 2:18-21.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:18-21.

Note: Notice how the author show us the care of the boy and God's blessing on the parents for their faithfulness.

Q What is the difference or progression between 2:11 and 2:18 in regard to Samuel's ministry?

An = He was ministering before Eli in 2:11 and before the Lord in 2:18. There is growth in Samuel. It is explicitly said in the last phrase of 2:21: "Samuel grew before the Lord". In Hebrew the word "great" (gadal) is used of Samuel and it is used of Eli's sons in 2:17.

IV. Eli's Confrontation With His Sons: I Samuel 2:22-26.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:22-26.

Q Are we responsible for what our sons do? How responsible are we?

An = (Let your audience talk freely here. It may get a bit off center, but let them talk and then bring it back.) The Bible recognizes that we are judged by our children (spiritually and physically) and as much as we can influence them, they are free to make their own decisions. If we look at just this text we do see that Eli did confront and do so strongly. He did not defrock them however. >>> Turn to Proverbs 10:1, 15:20, 17:25.

Q Why would the Proverbs bring this issue up so many times?

An = Because it is so universally true. One of the greatest gifts we can give our parents is to live a moral and wise life. It is also one of the greatest difficulties of parenthood that our kids are free and they can make or break our happiness.

Q What is your author doing by placing 2:26 in the middle of the story of Eli and His son's actions and fate?

An = To show the growing of good leadership in the midst of bad. Eli's sons grew great in sin, while Samuel grew great in favor with God and with man (see Bruegglemann, 22-23).

V. Prophecy against Eli and His Household: I Samuel 2:27-36.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:27-29.

Q What is the sin of the priests according to these verses?

An = More than their actual sin of sacrilege there is the sin of ingratitude. They were given a position and respect and they did not perform it with dignity. They were ungrateful to God for His giving them their position. They were ungrateful!

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:30-33.

Q What is alarming about these verses?

An = That an everlasting covenant would be invalidated (2:30). Also, the mistakes of the fathers go forward into the lives of those who will follow them.

Q Is it scary that our sacrilege can affect our children?

Q What is the cause of the covenant being broken?

An = If we despise God then we forfeit the His honor. It seems that what we do affects our future. God gives us the "dignity of causation". We can affect our future. It is a dignity but a scary one.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:34-36.

Q Do you think God will judge ministers who treat the flock poorly?

An = Yes, the harshest judgment comes upon the leaders. >>> Turn to James 3:1 and have the group discuss this. >>> Turn to Luke 12:48 Jesus says "He who is given much, much more is required". Is this fair?

Q Who will be the most strictly judged in this room?

An = Me and the other leaders in the room. Our Lord is a great giver of gifts but He is also fair. He will hold us accountable for the gifts of influence and power that we hold. This is good news for those who have been abused. It is a serious warning for those who think that leadership is a "place of perks" and not a "burden to wisely bare".

I Samuel 2:1-11 | Lesson # 3 | Hannah's Song of Praises

2008-06-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

I SAMUEL Lesson # 3

I Samuel 2:1-11

Hannah's Song of Praises

I. Greetings:

II. Introduction;

Note: For those of you who are new, we want you to know that we have been studying about a young woman named Hannah. We have been reading about her choice to give up the center of her earthly joy: namely her son, Samuel.

Note: If new people are present, have someone in the room recount the story: the need of Hannah, her prayer/vow, and her decision to give the child to the temple in accordance with her vow.

Note: It is at the temple where she has delivered the "light of her life" that she prays I Samuel 2:1-10.

III. Hannah's Song Praises: I Samuel 2:1-11.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:1-2.

Q In I Samuel 2:1 what three things does she claim she is doing?

An = Her heart is exalting, her horn is exalted, and she is confidently confronting her enemies. Actually, "horn" opens the song (2:1) and closes it (2:10). It opens with her "raised horn" and concludes with that of the messiah! Brueggemann, pp.16-17

Q How can someone be so "up" and confident when they have given up a key asset to their happiness?

An = Let them give their answers and then explain the reason for her "joy" and "confidence" is given in the last line of verse 2. "There is joy in God's salvation".

Q What does "joy in God's salvation mean?"

>>>> Re-read I Samuel 2:2.

Q What does this verse mean?

An = It is a description of God's attributes. It is a hymn. For that is what a hymn is, a celebration of the glories attributes and character of God.

Q Why is she praising God?

An = It is not because life is easy or God has given gifts, but because God is to be praised. She has given to God in a committed way. Therefore she has come into submission and so joy and praise are the natural result: a foretaste of heaven. Once you have tasted of what she now knows you will understand her song.

Q What does she praise God about?

An = He is holy, incomparable, and an incomparable rock.

Q Why is God incomparable?

An = It is only the God of Israel that has all power to act and the willingness to do so. He can change or reverse anything and He wills to do so. All power serving the weak, or as Hannah says, He is not friendly to arrogance but rather such qualities that one must sing of them.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:3.

Q Why should one not be arrogant?

An = God is intelligent: He knows all (and you are not going to impress Him with your puny knowledge). He perceives the worth of our actions: He weighs our actions.

Q How does Hannah perceive God? Does she like God?

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:4-8.

Q What theme do all these verses have in common?

An = The theme of reversal:

4: reversal of strength.

5a: reversal of hunger.

5b: reversal of reproduction.

6: reversal of life.

7a: reversal of wealth.

7b: reversal of position.

Note: Verse 8 is not a stress on reversal but a stress on "raising".

Q Who is raised?

An = The poor and the needy.

Q Why is this part of Hannah's song?

An = poor and needy must refer to more than monetary issues. She was poor psychologically, positional, etc.

Q Is this true today?

Note: The reason God can both raise the needy and reverse the fortunes of human being is found in I Samuel 8b. He controls the very basis (foundation) of life itself. It is quite within His purview to change anything. As Brueggemann says, "The hope of the poor and weak is rooted in the foundational power of the creator". ... "The poem thus links the majesty of Yahweh's sovereignty over creation with the hope of the marginal". p. 19.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 2:9-11.

Q What is the key agenda or key idea of 2:9?

An = God is concerned with morality. This is a basic biblical truth: ultimate power and justice are wed in God.

Q According to I Samuel 2:10 is it wise to fight against God?

Q How does one contend with, or oppose God?

An = 1) One could do this by not helping to raise the needy or lowly both spiritually and physically. 2) To be immoral or wicked. Brueggemann (p. 20) adds the thought that the "wicked are those who rely on their own strength--people like Penninnah or the Philistines. Against the judging, ruling power of Yahweh, arrogant human strength cannot prevail."

Q How do you understand 2:10b?

An = It stresses God actions of judgment and then helping His chosen leaders. He will strengthen and exalt them. He will help those who lead and bless His people. So God is described in 2:2-10a and then the fact that He will help leadership, those who are His anointed. Brueggemann reminds us that "The poem, moreover, articulates the criteria by which subsequent kings are to be evaluated (p. 20). It begins with her "horn" being exalted and ends going beyond her horizon to that of the "king" and perhaps the messiah (p.20). Our experience of salvation helps us see the larger and greater picture. Our personal salvation is not just for us alone but we are part of the greater issue that will result in the blessings of others. Our horn must eventually point to the horn of the king.

III. Hannah's N.T. Counterpart. Luke 1:46-55.

Q What New Testament mother also sung a song very similar to this one?

An = Mary, the mother of Jesus.

>>>> Have someone read Luke 1:46-55.

Q What themes are similar?

An = 1) joy. 2) God's care for exalting the lowly, 3) against arrogance, 4) the theme of reversal.

Q To what does Luke 1:54-55 correspond to in I Samuel 2:1-10? What verses do these two verses match to since all the others seem to parallel some aspect of I Samuel 2:1-10?

An = I believe it is the exalting, strengthening of leaders in 2:10. Remember the reason for helping leaders is not for their egos but for the blessing of the "people" of God. She begins with her good fortune and ends with the blessing of the larger community. All biblical blessing does this. People grow spiritually when they realize that God wishes not only to save them but to make them part of His great service to the world.

Q Did these two women have a high view of God?

Q How did they arrive at such a viewpoint?

An = Commitment (keeping vows) and risk. Hannah risked her happiness in the form of her having children and Mary risked in the form of marriage and her respectability.

Q Can we have such joy and knowledge of God without risk?

I Samuel 1:21-1:28 | Lesson # 2 | Promises and Gifts

2008-06-20T11:21:00.001-07:00

I SAMUEL Lesson # 2

I Samuel 1:21-1:28

Promises and Gifts

I. Greetings: I recently had a letter and a phone call on the same day from two young but committed Christians. The one asked how one could develop and maintain health friendships in their life. The other asked how does one actually draw closer to God and let Him satisfy our deepest longing. How could one answer satisfy both questions? The answer could be in the last few verses of the opening chapter of I Samuel.

II. Keeping Our Vows and Giving Gifts.

Q Does someone know the story of Hannah, Samuel's mother? Could you briefly tell the story?

Q How important were children to women in the ancient world?

An = Children gave them their dignity and fulfillment. In Hannah's case it was what gave here social standing in her own eyes (not her husbands) and some ammunition against the taunts of Penninnah.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:21-23.

Q Why does Hannah not go up to worship?

An = She will only appear when she brings a gift. The most "dear" gift is, of course, her only son.

Q Had Elkanah made vows?

An = Yes, see I Samuel 1:21.

Q Did Elkanah know what she was going to do and approve of her action?

An = Strangely, yes. He was willing to give up a son, and thus the giving of the son was a joint adventure. Numbers 30 tells us that religious vows should not split families. She could not have fulfilled her vow without Elkanah's help. Sometimes religious people use religion or religious vows (above and beyond what the Lord normally asks) to the detriment of their family. It causes great resentment and does not make the Lord look to good. Sometimes we need to remember that we cannot give what is not ours. Often, people want to give the extraordinary, but not be faithful in the ordinary. Our Elkhanah's must agree.

Note: It is hard to tell how long "until she weaned him" could be. It is possible it was three to seven (probably closer to 3-4) years.

Q Are we to appear before God without an offering?

An = No, we are not to come empty handed: Exodus 23:15, 34:20 and Deuteronomy 16:16. Have three different people look these verses up and then have them read to the group.

Q Why bring a gift? What does it do for the worshipper?

An = It is obvious, when we think about it, God is not broke. He owns the cattle on a 1000 hills (Psalm 50:9-13). It is us who need to give, not God who needs our gifts. Perhaps give an example of this.

Q Must we teach our children to give gifts to us?

An = Yes, if we want them to be healthy. Those who do not learn to give will not grow to be healthy parents, healthy mates, healthy giving members of a community. We are raising a whole batch of kids both poor and rich that think the world owes them everything. It is destructive for them and for their community. "It is truly more blessed to give than to receive."

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:24-28.

Q Did she bring the little boy empty handed? Did she come also with a gift?

An = And quite an expensive one. It was like bringing several thousand dollars in today's reckoning. It is expensive to serve the living God.

Q If you look a the verbs and their subjects, what had the woman done according to her speech?

An = In her words: "I stood, praying (26), I prayed (27), I asked (27), and I have lent back or dedicated forever the boy (28). She prayed, she received, and now she keeps her vow and gives. Have the group count the verbs of her speech with you and list them. It begins with standing before God in His presence. We cannot begin a decent relationship with people if we do not "stand" before them.

Q What action dominates her story?

An = Her asking in prayer. Hannah has a "testimony", a story of God's action in her life. Her particular story is dominated by prayer, by her asking. All of us who want to grow closer to God might take a hint from Hannah and simply begin by truly asking for what we want.

Note: Despite the actions of the woman everything depends and centers on the Lord. This is not mere religion, but interaction with a living God. She prayed to God and God gave to her and now she gives back to God. This is not sentimental religion, but faith in a living God, a real God who can be spoken to, who can do miracles, and who is expensive to worship.

RQ Has God given you something?

Note: If we receive, then we must give...this is what Hannah teaches us. Notice her asking then leads to her receiving and then her giving. The cycle is complete. Just as a child is not healthy until it gives and a parent is not a good parent unless they are willing to receive, so with God.

Q Is her decision to give her child an emotional, impulsive one?

Q What is the proof from the text that her decision was not an immediate reaction to an emotional high?

An = She had years to reflect as her pregnancy developed and she nursed that baby in her arms. This was a deliberate decision. She both gives and keeps vows with deliberate decision.

Note: So, again, back to our two people who asked questions about relating to God and relating to people. They asked two questions: 1) how do they have a valid relationship with other human beings and 2) how does one truly develop a proper relationship with God.

Q So, how can one answer to be related to both questions. What is that answer?

An = If they cannot answer, that is OK, just tell them we will go on.

III. Conclusion:

Q How important is it to keep vows, to be bound by our pledges?

Q How important is it for men to keep their vows to their wives?

Q What happens to men or women who keep their word?

Q Do they make better friends, better mates, better parents, better assets to the community?

Q Can you be in relationship to God and not keep your vows?

RQ Have you vowed to God? Then keep your vows, even if it cost you your happiness. Your true happiness will be just around the corner!

An = We cannot please God or grow close to Him, after He has blessed us if we do not keep our vows. It cannot be a one-way street. No healthy relationship is. To be committed is costly. It could cost us our perception of what it means to be happy (with Hannah it was the possession of a child).

Q Does God look bad in demanding of us that we give Him gifts?

Q What would you think of the parent who demanded gifts of their children?

An = In subtle ways this must be done. We must teach our children to give and they must be shown the way of keeping their vows, their word or they will grow up to be worthless people both to themselves and to their communities.

Note: God kept His vows, His covenant, so we must be like Him to be godly. To be godly is to be "like God" and He keep His vows.

Note: We cannot get to God with vows. He must act first (in Hannah's case it was in answer to her prayers.) The Order, according to I Samuel 1 is:

Prayer: while in need (perhaps while in grief or sadness).

Reception of God's grace or miracle.

Keep Our Vows

Bring a Gift

Sing: in the state of commitment and in Hannah's case in joy.

Q Why bring a gift to God with the boy?

An = 1) At the heart of our relationship to God there should be giving. We cannot approach Him empty handed. 2) He is a giver, so we should become like Him.

>>>> Turn to I Samuel 2:21 and have someone read this verse.

Q What does this mean?

An = You cannot out-give God.

Q How many of you know people who so desperately want friends that they are like leaches when they enter a room?

Q Are these people pleasant to be around? Why?

Note: Ever notice that certain people are a joy to see walk into a room? It is often because they are givers. I have heard countless people say, I do not give to others or care about others in a social situation because no one cares about me. It has to start some where. So if they give they will slowly begin to reshape their personality and therefore their relationships to others and they, most importantly, will be pleasing God.

Note: God wants us to have good and healthy friendship with others and to do so we must be give to others and be keeper of our promises. Do those two things and you will not only develop your friendships but also your relationship to God.

Note: One last thought. So people give so as to control. Notice our Lord asking us to give and His gracious acceptance of our gifts. It takes grace to receive gifts from those around us and if we do not learn to accept we will be inadequate people. To be godly is to receive gifts as well. Notice the graciousness of God who risks looking bad by demanding gifts, but by doing so opens the door to our health.

I Samuel 1:1-20 | LESSON # 1 | The Advantage of Disadvantage

2008-06-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

SAMUEL LESSON # 1

I Samuel 1:1-20

The Advantage of Disadvantage

I. Greetings.

II. Unusual Beginnings to the History of Kings.

Note: The books we call I and II Samuel and I and II Kings are named differently in the Hebrew Bible. There the names are I, II, III, and IV Kings. In other words our books of I and II Samuel are I and II Kings in Hebrew and I and II Kings in English are III and IV Kings in Hebrew. We do not know who wrote these books. They are anonymous and their titles reflect their content not their author. These four books cover roughly 400 years (1050-586) or the period of Israel's Monarchy. Our study will cover the first two books and will cover the beginning of Kingship in Israel.

Q If you were writing a history of the U.S. Presidency, how would you start? What would your opening chapter cover as you began to discuss President Washington?

An = Get some feed back here and then suggest that we look at how the O.T. starts.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:1-2.

Note: The author starts speaking of a man who seems quite unknown and so gives us his place of birth and city. He is not from a major city.

Q How many wives does Elkanah have?

An = Two, note one has no children, and who would care about this petty detail of the domestic situation of two housewives? However, this domestic detail will dominate the rest of the first chapter of the opening chapter of the History of Israel's kings.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:3-5.

Note: The two sons of Eli the priest are mentioned = this is a deliberate mention of Leadership which is perhaps the key issue that dominates the entire four books of Kings (I and II and Samuel and I and II Kings).

Note: The author goes out of his way to let us know one of the wives has no ability to have children.

Q Who had closed Hannah's womb?

An = God.

Q Is God responsible for our handicaps or lacks in life, like Hannah's not being able to have children. In other words is God really responsible for us not having the things we really want that are normal to have: marriage, children, a good reputation, good job, etc.

An = Yes, according to I Samuel 1:5.

Q What do you think of God then?

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:6-8.

Q What has this misfortune done to Hannah?

An = Reduced her life to misery.

QQ Why is she so miserable? Are women competitive?

An = The taunting hurts in ways that are hard to bear.

Q Has someone ever taunted you because of a lack? When you were young?

An = How did you feel.

Note: The double portion, was a nice gesture on Elkanah's part but the taunting took even that away. She was so upset she could not even eat. Penninah had triumphed.

>>>> Re-read I Samuel 1:8.

Q What do you think of Elkanah's speech in 1:8?

An or note: = Sometimes our relationships with people and with our situation will never improve until we try to accept the good we have. We can hurt those we love and who love us, when we are hurting, if we are not accepting of the love they try to offer.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:9-11.

Q In her distress where did she go?

An = She went to God, but after she tried to eat, i.e. to accept her husbands token of love. It is the best place to go. This is also what is done in many other examples in the Old Testament: Ezra: 9:1-7 and Nehemiah 1:3-6.

Note: Give an example when you first fretted before you prayed, or did not pray but stayed in your fretting. (TV)

>>>> Have someone read Ezra 9:1-7.

Note: Ezra is faced with tragedy in the spiritual lives of those he loves and is responsible for. I love how he "fell on his knees with his hands spread out to the Lord, his God." He is grieved, pulled his hair, tore his clothes but finally prayed. Have everyone turn just a few pages over in the Bibles to Nehemiah 1.

>>>> Have someone read Nehemiah 1:3-6

Note: Note Nehemiah is faced with a crisis in his nation. He, at first sits down, grieves and weeps and then finally prays.

Note: Lets return to I Samuel 1:11....

Q What do you think of the vow in 1:11? Is this good, why or why not? Is this commitment or manipulation?

Note: Explain nazarite vows briefly. Explain also the giving to God, i.e. to the priest as a servant.

Q Is it good to give a kid everything without him working for it?

Q What happens to the kid that never has to make costly choices?

Q Is it healthy for us to give to God so that it costs us? If so why?

An = We grow! We decide whether we really want something (like God) if it cost us something.

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:12-18.

Q Is the priest sensitive?

An = No! He is like many ministers and priests today. This is how life is whether we like it or not, but the Bible is a reflection of reality not "what would be ideal". It tells the truth so that we can deal with it.

Q Does she let the insensitiveness of the religious leader stop her?

An = No! Sometimes despite the leadership, people get to God. It is not right but it happens sometimes.

Q How many of struggle today because of the insensitive actions of ministers or priests in your life?

Note: Explain priestly pronouncement. Power of the spoken word. God created worlds with speech. Jesus calmed the Sea of Galilee, stopped disease, etc. with His speech. Speech can alter reality according to the Bible, especially if God backs it. Charismatics understand this sometimes better than other groups. In our own experience, wedding pronouncements: "I now pronounce you man and wife" alters reality for many people.

Q In I Samuel 1:18 did the woman believe?

>>>> Have someone read I Samuel 1:19-20.

Q Did God answer?

An = Yes, and it could be of encouragement to hear this strain of teaching about prayer. It is here, later in chapter 7, all through the Psalms, in the story of Jesus in the boat, in the book of Kings, etc. The strain is simply this: when we are really desperate and hope only in God then He will hear and He will answer. It sounds so simply but is so important to learn.

Q What do you really need right now? Humbly confess your need.

Note: One of the great advantages I have had lately in my life is my actual disadvantages. My disadvantages have become my advantages. Not just in the big things but in the little things. These disadvantanges drive me to prayer. The prayer drives me to contact God in way that has never been a reality before. In the long run a relationship of trust begins to develop that never would have been except for the disadvantage I experienced that drove me to prayer.

Close in prayer.

I SAMUEL | KINGSHIP VERSUS STEWARDSHIP

2008-06-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

I SAMUEL

KINGSHIP VERSUS STEWARDSHIP

I. Definition of Terms:

Steward: Middle management

King: Top of pyramid type of leader.

II. STEWARDSHIP

Definition:

One who leads, but is accountable to another who loves those being led.

Scripture:

Luke 12:42-48. Luke 19:12-27 (talents). I Corinthians 4:1,2. Hebrews 13:17.

Process: Four Checks

-Scripture is over the leader's actions and decisions.

-The Spirit of God is over the leader's actions and decisions.

-The Needs/not desires of others are over the leader's actions and decisions.

-The brothers are over the leader's actions and decisions.

Advantages:

-Oppression is avoided by the checks.

-Corruption is avoided by the checks.

-Fellowship and greater service results.

-Humility develops and serves as a behavior model for others.

I Peter 4:10,11.

Immediate Results:

-Self discipline must be present: Titus 1:5-9

-Leader's ego will suffer: i.e. Paul.

-Leader will be less powerful.

-Not all of your immediate goals will be accomplished.

Final Results:

-Great development and health in others will appear.

-Love among others will grow.

-The leader will develop.

III. KINGSHIP

Definition:

One who leads with one check, preservation of their leadership. They believe they have a right to spoils.

Scripture:

I Samuel 8:4-7; 10-18.

Process:

-A steward when selfish becomes a king.

-If you are very concerned with maintaining your power and leadership that is a sign of unconscious kingship developing.

-One forgets that there is really only one King.

-One forgets that God owns all things, not us.

Disadvantages:

-oppression

-corruption

-loss of spiritual direction

Immediate Results:

-They will stay in power.

-Their ego is gratified.

-Their goals will be accomplished.

Final Results:

-God will judge them: remember Saul.