1 Samuel 12
Berean Study Bible

Samuel’s Farewell Address

Then Samuel said to all Israel,

Samuel, Israel’s last judge and a prophet of the Lord, addressed the assembled tribes at a decisive moment in their history. The nation was moving from the era of the judges to a monarchy, and Samuel stood as God’s appointed leader through that transition.

1Sa 7:3 Then Samuel said to all the house of Israel,…
Deu 31:1 When Moses had finished speaking these words to all Israel,
Jos 24:1 Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem.…

“I have listened to your voice

Israel had repeatedly asked for a king to lead them like the surrounding nations. Though the request expressed their desire for visible national leadership, it also revealed their unwillingness to remain content with the Lord’s direct rule.

1Sa 8:7 And the LORD said to Samuel, “Listen to the voice…
1Sa 15:24 Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned;…

in all that you have said to me,

Samuel had heard the nation’s demand clearly and acted according to God’s instruction. The people could not claim that their request had been ignored or misunderstood.

1Sa 8:5 “Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons”…
1Sa 8:21 Samuel listened to all the words of the people…

and I have set over you a king.

Saul had been anointed and publicly confirmed as Israel’s first king. The monarchy brought a new form of national government, but Israel’s welfare would still depend on obedience to the Lord rather than on the strength of its king.

Deu 17:15 Appoint a king from among your brothers;…
1Sa 8:22 “Listen to their voice,” the LORD said to Samuel.…
1Sa 10:1 Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head…

Now here is the king walking before you,

Israel has received the human ruler it demanded. Saul now stands publicly as the nation’s leader, marking a major change from the period when judges such as Samuel governed under God’s direct authority. The monarchy would shape Israel’s future through Saul, David, and Solomon, while also exposing the dangers of rulers who failed to obey the Lord.

1Sa 8:20 “Then we will be like all the other nations,…
Num 27:17 who will go out and come in before them,…
2Sa 5:2 Even in times past, while Saul was king over us,…

and I am old and gray,

Samuel’s age testifies to decades of faithful service as prophet, judge, and leader. He prepares to yield public leadership to the king while remaining God’s spokesman to the nation.

Psa 71:18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God,…
Jos 23:2 he summoned all Israel, including its elders…
1Ki 1:1 Now King David was old and well along in years,…

and my sons are here with you.

Samuel does not hide the presence of his sons, whose corrupt conduct as judges had contributed to Israel’s demand for a king. Their failure shows that spiritual heritage and public position do not guarantee faithful leadership.

1Sa 8:1-5 When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges…
1Sa 2:22-25 Now Eli was very old, and he heard about everything…

I have walked before you from my youth until this day.

From his childhood in the tabernacle to his years judging Israel, Samuel had served openly among the people. He could appeal to a life known by the nation, establishing his integrity before he confronted them with their sin in seeking a king.

1Sa 7:15-17 So Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life.…
Psa 71:17 O God, You have taught me from my youth,…
Psa 37:25 I once was young and now am old, yet never have I seen…

Here I am.

At Gilgal, Samuel stands before all Israel at the close of his public leadership, placing his conduct before the nation without concealment.

Gen 22:1 Some time later God tested Abraham and said to him,…
Exo 3:4 When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look,…
Isa 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying…

Bear witness against me before the LORD and before His anointed:

He calls the people to speak openly in the presence of the LORD and Saul, Israel’s newly established king, recognizing that God Himself judges the matter.

Deu 19:15 A lone witness is not sufficient to establish any wrongdoing…
Psa 2:2 The kings of the earth take their stand…
1Sa 26:9 But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him…

Whose ox or donkey have I taken?

Samuel asks whether he has taken even ordinary property from anyone for his own benefit.

Num 16:15 Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD,…
1Sa 8:16 And he will take your menservants and maidservants…
Exo 20:17 You shall not covet your neighbor’s house.…

Whom have I cheated or oppressed?

He denies using his authority to defraud, exploit, or burden those he was appointed to lead.

Lev 19:13 You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him.…
Deu 24:14 Do not oppress a hired hand who is poor and needy…
2Co 7:2 Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one…

From whose hand have I accepted a bribe and closed my eyes?

Samuel asks whether anyone has paid him to overlook wrongdoing or distort judgment.

Exo 23:8 Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see…
Deu 16:19 Do not deny justice or show partiality…
Pro 17:23 A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course…

Tell me, and I will restore it to you.”

If any legitimate charge can be made, he is prepared to repay what was taken and make the matter right.

Luk 19:8 But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord,…
Lev 6:4-5 once he has sinned and becomes guilty, he must return…
Num 5:6-7 Tell the Israelites that when a man or woman acts…

“You have not cheated us or oppressed us,”

Samuel asked Israel to testify publicly concerning his years of leadership. Though the nation had demanded a king, they could not charge Samuel with using his authority for personal advantage or treating them unjustly.

Lev 19:13 You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him.…
Exo 22:21 You must not exploit or oppress a foreign resident,…
Deu 24:14 Do not oppress a hired hand who is poor and needy…

they replied,

The people confirmed before the Lord and the assembly that Samuel’s conduct had been honorable. Their united witness established his integrity as he prepared to yield civil leadership to the new monarchy.

Neh 5:12 “We will restore it,” they replied, “and will require nothing…
Jos 24:16-18 The people replied, “Far be it from us to forsake…
Exo 24:3 When Moses came and told the people all the words…

“nor have you taken anything from the hand of man.”

Samuel had accepted no bribe, gift, or unlawful payment from anyone. His example showed that leadership under God was to be marked by justice, restraint, and service rather than personal gain.

Num 16:15 Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD,…
Deu 16:19 Do not deny justice or show partiality…
Act 20:33 I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.

Samuel said to them,

Samuel publicly concludes his review of his judgeship before Israel. As the nation moves into the era of the monarchy, he establishes that his own leadership has been faithful and free from personal gain.

1Sa 7:3 Then Samuel said to all the house of Israel,…
Jos 24:2 And Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the LORD…
1Ki 18:21 Then Elijah approached all the people and said,…

“The LORD is a witness against you,

The LORD is called as the ultimate witness, since He knows the truth of Samuel’s conduct and the people’s response. Israel stands accountable before God in this solemn public proceeding.

Psa 50:7 Hear, O My people, and I will speak, O Israel,…
Mal 3:5 “Then I will draw near to you for judgment.…
Gen 31:50 If you mistreat my daughters or take other wives,…

and His anointed is a witness today,

Saul, whom the LORD had chosen and Samuel had anointed as king, also stands as a witness. His presence confirms the lawful transition of leadership and the public nature of Samuel’s examination.

1Sa 24:6 So he said to his men, “The LORD forbid…
1Sa 26:11 But the LORD forbid that I should extend my hand…
2Sa 1:14 So David asked him, “Why were you not afraid”…

that you have not found anything in my hand.”

Samuel declares that no one can charge him with theft, bribery, oppression, or misuse of authority. After years of serving Israel, he leaves office with a clear record.

1Sa 25:15 Yet these men were very good to us. When we were…
Num 16:15 Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD,…
2Co 7:2 Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one…

“He is a witness,” they replied.

The people unanimously affirm Samuel’s integrity before the LORD and Saul. Their testimony removes any accusation against him and confirms that he has governed them faithfully.

1Th 2:5 As you know, we never used words of flattery…
Rom 1:9 God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel…
Jdg 11:10 And the elders of Gilead said to Jephthah,…

Then Samuel said to the people,

Samuel, Israel’s last judge and a prophet of the LORD, addressed the nation as it entered a new era under Saul’s kingship. Though Israel had received a king, the LORD remained their true ruler, and Samuel continued to speak with God’s authority.

1Sa 11:14 Then Samuel said to the people, “Come, let us go to Gilgal”…
Jos 24:2 And Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the LORD…
Deu 5:1 Then Moses summoned all Israel and said to them:…

“The LORD is the One who appointed Moses and Aaron,

Israel’s history began with the LORD’s own choice of leaders. He raised up Moses to lead and instruct the people and Aaron to serve as high priest. Their authority came from God, not from human ambition or popular approval.

Psa 105:26 He sent Moses His servant, and Aaron, whom He had chosen.
Exo 4:14-16 When he sees you, he will be glad in his heart.…
Exo 7:1-2 The LORD answered Moses, “See, I have made you like God…

and who brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt.

The LORD delivered Israel’s ancestors from Egyptian slavery by His power and established them as His covenant people. Their past deliverance showed that the same God who had guided Israel from the beginning remained faithful in Samuel’s day.

Jos 24:6-7 When I brought your fathers out of Egypt…
Deu 4:37-38 Because He loved your fathers, He chose their descendants…
Exo 20:2 I am the LORD your God, who brought you out…

Now present yourselves,

Samuel summons Israel to a formal assembly, calling the nation to stand before him as God’s prophet and judge.

1Sa 10:19 But today you have rejected your God, who saves you…
Deu 29:10-12 All of you are standing today before the LORD your God…
Exo 34:23 Three times a year all your males are to appear…

so that I may confront you

He will hold the people accountable by setting before them the record of God’s dealings with Israel.

Jer 2:9 Therefore, I will contend with you again, declares the LORD,…
Hos 4:1 Hear the word of the LORD, O children of Israel,…
Mic 6:2 Hear, O mountains, the LORD’s indictment,…

before the LORD

The gathering takes place under God’s authority, emphasizing that Israel’s relationship with Samuel and its king is ultimately a matter before the LORD.

Deu 31:11-12 when all Israel comes before the LORD your God…
Jos 24:1 Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem.…
2Ch 20:13 Meanwhile all the men of Judah, with their wives…

with all the righteous acts

Samuel recounts the LORD’s just and faithful acts of deliverance, protection, and covenant mercy toward His people.

Jdg 5:11 the voices of the singers at the watering places.…
Dan 9:14 Therefore the LORD has kept the calamity in store……
Psa 145:17 The LORD is righteous in all His ways…

He has done for you and your fathers.

Israel’s present generation shares in a history that began with their ancestors. God’s past faithfulness exposes the seriousness of their rejection of His direct rule in seeking a human king.

Deu 4:34-35 Or has any god tried to take as his own a nation……
Deu 6:20-23 In the future, when your son asks, “What is the meaning of…
Jos 24:2-13 And Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the LORD…

When Jacob went to Egypt,

Famine drove Jacob’s household from Canaan to Egypt, where Joseph had been appointed to provide food and preserve his family. What began as a small family settlement grew into the nation of Israel.

Gen 46:1-7 So Israel set out with all that he had, and…
Psa 105:23 Then Israel entered Egypt; Jacob dwelt in the land of Ham.
Exo 1:1-5 These are the names of the sons of Israel who went…

your fathers cried out to the LORD,

After generations in Egypt, the Israelites were enslaved and afflicted. In their distress, they cried out to the LORD, the God of their fathers, who remembered His covenant.

Exo 2:23-25 After a long time, the king of Egypt died.…
Deu 26:7 So we called out to the LORD, the God of our fathers;…
Exo 3:7-9 The LORD said, “I have indeed seen the affliction…

and He sent them Moses and Aaron,

God appointed Moses to lead Israel and Aaron to assist him before Pharaoh. Through them, the LORD confronted Egypt and revealed His authority over its king and gods.

Psa 105:26 He sent Moses His servant, and Aaron, whom He had chosen.
Exo 3:10-15 Therefore, go! I am sending you to Pharaoh…
Exo 4:13-16 But Moses replied, “Please, Lord, send someone else.”…

who brought your fathers out of Egypt

Moses and Aaron led Israel from slavery through the mighty acts God performed against Egypt. The Exodus established Israel as a people redeemed and governed by the LORD.

Exo 12:51 And on that very day the LORD brought the Israelites out…
Deu 26:8 Then the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand…
Deu 4:37 Because He loved your fathers, He chose their descendants…

and settled them in this place.

God brought Israel into Canaan, the land He had promised to their fathers. Their possession of the land rested on His faithfulness, not their own strength.

Deu 26:9 And He brought us to this place and gave us this land,…
Jos 21:43-45 Thus the LORD gave Israel all the land He had sworn…
Jos 23:14 Now behold, today I am going the way of all the earth…

But they forgot the LORD their God,

Israel willfully neglected the covenant and turned to other gods, abandoning the One who had delivered and sustained them.

Jdg 3:7 So the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD;…
Jdg 8:34 The Israelites failed to remember the LORD their God…
Psa 106:21 They forgot God their Savior, who did great things in Egypt,

and He sold them into the hand of Sisera the commander of the army of Hazor,

God gave Israel over to Canaanite oppression under Sisera, whose forces were defeated through Deborah and Barak after Israel cried out for help.

Jdg 4:2 So the LORD sold them into the hand of Jabin king of Canaan…
Jdg 4:13 he summoned all nine hundred of his iron chariots…
Jdg 5:20-21 From the heavens the stars fought; from their courses…

and into the hands of the Philistines

The Philistines repeatedly pressed Israel from the coastal plain, becoming one of Israel’s most persistent enemies during the period of the judges.

Jdg 10:7 So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel,…
Jdg 13:1 Again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD…
1Sa 4:10-11 So the Philistines fought, and Israel was defeated…

and the king of Moab,

Moab’s king, Eglon, subjected Israel for years until God raised up Ehud to deliver them.

Jdg 3:12 Once again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD.…
Jdg 3:14 The Israelites served Eglon king of Moab eighteen years.
Jdg 11:25 Are you now so much better than Balak son of Zippor…

who fought against them.

These enemies became instruments of God’s discipline, showing that Israel’s suffering followed its rejection of Him and that deliverance came only by His mercy.

Jdg 3:29-30 At that time they struck down about ten thousand…
Jdg 4:15-16 And in front of him the LORD routed with the sword Sisera,…
1Sa 7:10-13 As the Philistines drew near to fight against Israel,…

Then they cried out to the LORD and said,

Under oppression, Israel recognized that its distress resulted from turning away from the LORD. Their cry was an appeal to the covenant God who had delivered them in the past.

Jdg 3:9 But when the Israelites cried out to the LORD,…
Jdg 10:10 Then the Israelites cried out to the LORD,…
Exo 14:10 As Pharaoh approached, the Israelites looked up and…

‘We have sinned,

They openly acknowledged their guilt rather than blaming their enemies or circumstances. Confession marked the beginning of their return to God.

2Ch 6:37 We have sinned and done wrong; we have acted wickedly…
Dan 9:5 we have sinned and done wrong. We have acted wickedly.…
Neh 9:33 You are just in all that has befallen us…

for we have forsaken the LORD

Israel had abandoned the God who brought them into the land and commanded their exclusive loyalty. Their suffering followed a deliberate pattern of covenant disobedience.

2Ch 12:5 Then Shemaiah the prophet came to Rehoboam…
Jos 24:20 If you forsake the LORD and serve foreign gods,…
Deu 31:16 And the LORD said to Moses, “You will soon rest…

and served the Baals and Ashtoreths.

These Canaanite idols drew Israel into the worship practices of the surrounding nations. Their service to false gods violated their obligation to worship the LORD alone.

Jdg 10:6 And again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD.…
Jdg 2:13 for they forsook Him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths.
1Ki 18:18 “I have not troubled Israel,” Elijah replied, “but you…”…

Now deliver us from the hands of our enemies,

Having admitted their sin, they asked God to rescue them from the nations that oppressed them. Deliverance depended on the LORD’s mercy, not Israel’s strength.

Jdg 10:15 “We have sinned,” the Israelites said to the LORD.…
Neh 9:27 So You delivered them into the hands of enemies…
Psa 106:10 He saved them from the hand that hated them;…

that we may serve You.’

Their request included a commitment to abandon idolatry and return to faithful obedience and worship of the LORD.

Exo 8:1 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh…
Jos 24:14 Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him…
Deu 10:12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you…

So the LORD sent Jerubbaal,

Jerubbaal, another name for Gideon meaning “Let Baal contend,” delivered Israel from Midian after destroying Baal’s altar. With only three hundred men, he defeated a vast enemy army, showing that Israel’s rescue came by the LORD’s power rather than military strength.

Jdg 6:14-16 The LORD turned to him and said, “Go in the strength…
Jdg 6:32-34 So on that day Gideon was called Jerubbaal, …

Barak,

Barak led Israel’s forces against Sisera, commander of the Canaanite army, during the judgeship of Deborah. Though he hesitated without Deborah’s presence, the LORD gave Israel victory and broke Canaanite oppression.

Jdg 4:6-7 She summoned Barak son of Abinoam from Kedesh in Naphtali…
Jdg 4:14-15 Then Deborah said to Barak, “Arise, for this is the day…

Jephthah,

Jephthah, once rejected by his family, was called to lead Israel against the Ammonites. The LORD granted him victory, though his rash vow later brought grievous sorrow.

Jdg 11:29-33 Then the Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah,…
Jdg 11:11 So Jephthah went with the elders of Gilead,…

and Samuel,

Samuel served Israel as judge, prophet, and priestly leader. He called the nation back to faithful worship and later anointed Saul and David, guiding Israel through the transition to monarchy.

1Sa 7:8-10 said to Samuel, “Do not stop crying out to the LORD our God”…
1Sa 7:15-17 So Samuel judged Israel all the days of his life.…

and He delivered you from the hands of your enemies on every side,

The LORD repeatedly raised up deliverers when Israel was oppressed, preserving His people despite their recurring unfaithfulness.

Jos 21:44 And the LORD gave them rest on every side,…
2Sa 7:1 After the king had settled into his palace,…

and you dwelt securely.

Times of peace followed the LORD’s deliverance, giving Israel safety in the land when they lived under His rule.

Ezk 34:28 They will no longer be prey for the nations…
Jer 23:6 In His days Judah will be saved; Israel will dwell securely.…

But when you saw that Nahash king of the Ammonites was moving against you,

Nahash threatened Israel’s communities east of the Jordan and exposed their fear of foreign attack. The Ammonites had long opposed Israel, and Nahash’s advance made the need for military leadership seem urgent.

1Sa 11:1 Then Nahash the Ammonite came up and laid siege…
1Sa 11:2 But Nahash the Ammonite replied, “I will make a treaty…
Jdg 10:7-9 So the anger of the LORD burned against Israel,…

you said to me, ‘No, we must have a king to rule over us’—

Israel insisted on a human ruler who could unite the tribes and lead them in battle. Their request reflected a desire for the visible security and political structure enjoyed by surrounding nations rather than confidence in the Lord’s care.

1Sa 8:5 “Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons”…
Jdg 8:22 Then the Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us…
Deu 17:14-15 When you enter the land that the LORD your God is giving you…

even though the LORD your God was your king.

The Lord had delivered, guided, and defended Israel throughout its history. By demanding a king on their own terms, they treated human power as more reliable than God’s rule, though He would later use the monarchy to establish the line leading to Christ, the true King.

1Sa 8:7 And the LORD said to Samuel, “Listen to the voice…
Jdg 8:23 But Gideon replied, “I will not rule over you,…
Psa 47:7 For God is King of all the earth; sing to Him…

Now here is the king you have chosen,

Israel had demanded a monarch like the surrounding nations, turning from God’s direct rule through Samuel and the judges. Their choice revealed a desire for visible human leadership rather than confidence in God’s provision.

1Sa 8:5 “Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons”…
Deu 17:14 When you enter the land that the LORD your God is giving you…

the one you requested.

The people persisted despite Samuel’s warnings that a king would bring burdens, military demands, and royal control. Their request exposed a deeper unwillingness to trust the Lord’s protection and government.

1Sa 8:6 But when they said, “Give us a king to judge us,”…
1Sa 8:19 Nevertheless, the people refused to listen to Samuel…

Behold, the LORD has placed a king over you.

God permitted Saul to reign while remaining sovereign over Israel’s future. Saul’s appointment both answered the nation’s demand and began the monarchy through which God would later establish David’s house and ultimately bring forth Christ, the true King.

Deu 17:15 Appoint a king from among your brothers;…
1Sa 10:24 Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see the one…
Hos 13:11 So in My anger I gave you a king, and in My wrath…

If you fear the LORD

Israel’s security depended on reverent submission to the God who had delivered them and established them in the land.

Deu 6:13 Fear the LORD your God, serve Him only, and take your oaths…
Pro 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,…
Ecc 12:13 When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter…

and serve Him

Their loyalty was to be shown in worship, obedience to the Law, and rejection of idols.

1Ch 28:9 As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father…
Psa 100:2 Serve the LORD with gladness; come into His presence…
Jos 24:15 But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD,…

and obey His voice,

God had made His will known through Moses and His prophets, and the nation was responsible to heed it.

Exo 19:5 Now if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant,…
Deu 28:1 Now if you faithfully obey the voice of the LORD your God…
Jer 7:23 Obey Me, and I will be your God, and you will be My people.…

and if you do not rebel against the command of the LORD,

Israel’s past showed that rebellion brought discipline, defeat, and oppression.

Num 14:9 Only do not rebel against the LORD, and do not be afraid…
Deu 1:26 But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled…
Num 20:24 Aaron will be gathered to his people; he will not enter…

and if both you and the king who rules over you

Saul’s rule did not lessen the people’s covenant responsibility; king and nation stood alike under God’s authority.

Deu 17:18-20 When he is seated on his royal throne, he must write…
2Ch 34:31-32 So the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant…
2Ki 11:17 Then Jehoiada made a covenant between the LORD and the king…

follow the LORD your God,

The king was to lead by faithful obedience rather than rule according to his own will.

Deu 13:4 You are to follow the LORD your God and fear Him.…
Jos 22:5 But be very careful to observe the commandment and the law…
2Ki 18:6 He remained faithful to the LORD and did not turn from…

then all will be well.

Continued faithfulness would bring God’s favor and preserve the nation under His care.

Deu 12:28 Be careful to obey all these things I command you,…
Deu 4:40 Keep His statutes and commandments, which I am giving you…
Ecc 8:12 Although a sinner does evil a hundred times…

But if you disobey the LORD and rebel against His command,

Israel’s covenant with the LORD required faithful obedience. Samuel warned that rejecting God’s rule would bring the same consequences their ancestors had known through the wilderness years and the era of the judges.

Deu 9:23 And when the LORD sent you out from Kadesh-barnea…
Deu 1:26 But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled…
Num 14:9 Only do not rebel against the LORD, and do not be afraid…

then the hand of the LORD will be against you

God’s hand denotes His active power in judgment. Rather than receiving His protection and help, a disobedient nation would face His discipline through defeat, oppression, and distress.

Jdg 2:15 Wherever Israel marched out, the hand of the LORD…
1Sa 5:6 Now the hand of the LORD was heavy on the people of Ashdod…
Exo 9:3 then the hand of the LORD will bring a severe plague…

as it was against your fathers.

Israel’s history showed a repeated pattern of rebellion followed by judgment. Samuel called the people to remember those events and recognize that the LORD had not changed in His holiness or faithfulness.

Deu 1:34-36 When the LORD heard your words, He grew angry…
Num 14:29-35 Your bodies will fall in this wilderness…
Ezk 20:36-38 Just as I entered into judgment with your fathers…

Now, therefore,

Samuel turns from Israel’s history and its demand for a king to a public demonstration of the LORD’s authority.

Jos 24:14 Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him…
Ezr 10:11 Now, therefore, make a confession to the LORD…
1Ch 29:13 Now therefore, our God, we give You thanks,…

present yourselves

Israel is summoned to stand attentively as witnesses to God’s response.

1Sa 10:19 But today you have rejected your God, who saves you…
Exo 34:23 Three times a year all your males are to appear…
Deu 31:12 Assemble the people—men, women, children…

and see this great thing

The LORD is about to give an extraordinary “great thing,” a miraculous sign that will confirm Samuel’s warning and expose the seriousness of the people’s sin in asking for a king.

Deu 11:7 For it is your own eyes that have seen every great work…
Exo 14:13 But Moses told the people, “Do not be afraid.…
Psa 66:5 Come and see the works of God; how awesome are His deeds…

that the LORD will do

The event will come by God’s power alone, showing that He remains sovereign over Israel despite their rejection of His direct rule.

Jos 3:5 Then Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves,…
1Sa 3:11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, “I am about to do something…
Amo 3:7 Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan…

before your eyes.

The sign will be open and unmistakable, leaving the nation without excuse as they witness the LORD’s judgment and mercy.

Deu 4:34 Or has any god tried to take as his own a nation……
Deu 29:2-4 Moses summoned all Israel and proclaimed to them,…
Exo 14:31 When Israel saw the great power that the LORD had exercised…

Is it not the wheat harvest today?

Wheat harvest came in the dry season, usually in late spring or early summer, when rain was rare. A storm at that time could ruin grain still being gathered or lying in the fields, making it a serious threat to Israel’s food supply and livelihood.

1Sa 6:13 Now the people of Beth-shemesh were harvesting wheat…
Jdg 15:1 Later on, at the time of the wheat harvest,…

I will call on the LORD to send thunder and rain,

Samuel would ask God to interrupt the normal weather pattern with a public sign. Thunder and rain in the harvest season would leave no doubt that the LORD was acting and that Samuel spoke with His authority.

Exo 9:23-29 So Moses stretched out his staff toward heaven,…
1Ki 18:41-45 And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink,…

so that you will know and see what a great evil you have committed

The storm would expose the gravity of Israel’s decision. They had not merely adopted a new form of government; they had treated the LORD’s rule as insufficient and sought security in a human king like the surrounding nations.

Num 16:28-30 Then Moses said, “This is how you will know”…
Exo 32:30 The next day Moses said to the people…

in the sight of the LORD

Israel’s request had been made before the God who knew their motives and judged their actions. Their political demand was also an act of spiritual rebellion against the King who had delivered and preserved them.

1Sa 15:19 So why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you rush…
Jdg 2:11 And the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD…

by asking for a king.”

God had allowed for the future possibility of a king, but Israel’s present request arose from fear, impatience, and unbelief. Samuel’s sign showed that their choice had offended the LORD even as He permitted them to receive the king they desired.

Deu 17:14-15 When you enter the land that the LORD your God is giving you…
Hos 13:10-11 Where is your king now to save you in all your cities…

So Samuel called to the LORD,

Samuel interceded for Israel as the LORD’s prophet and judge, demonstrating the authority God had entrusted to him.

1Sa 7:9 Then Samuel took a suckling lamb and offered it…
Psa 99:6 Moses and Aaron were among His priests;…
1Ki 17:20-22 Then he cried out to the LORD, “O LORD my God…

and on that day the LORD sent thunder and rain.

During the normally dry wheat harvest, God answered with an unmistakable storm, confirming Samuel’s warning and showing His displeasure at Israel’s demand for a king.

Exo 9:23-33 So Moses stretched out his staff toward heaven,…
1Sa 7:10 As the Philistines drew near to fight against Israel,…
1Ki 18:41-45 And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink,…

As a result, all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel.

The people recognized God’s power and Samuel’s divine authority, leading them to fear the LORD with reverence and acknowledge their sin.

Exo 14:31 When Israel saw the great power that the LORD had exercised…
Jos 4:14 On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight…

They pleaded with Samuel,

Terrified by the storm God had sent, the people turned to Samuel as the Lord’s prophet and judge, asking him to stand before God on their behalf.

Exo 8:8 Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Pray to the LORD…
Exo 10:17 Now please forgive my sin once more and appeal to the LORD…

“Pray to the LORD your God

They recognized Samuel’s faithful relationship with the Lord while admitting their own guilt and alienation through disobedience.

1Sa 7:8 said to Samuel, “Do not stop crying out to the LORD our God”…
Jer 42:2 Jeremiah the prophet and said, “May our petition come…

for your servants

Their appeal acknowledged Samuel’s spiritual authority and their dependence on his intercession.

Neh 1:6 Your eyes be open and Your ears attentive to hear…
Neh 1:11 O Lord, may Your ear be attentive to my prayer…

so that we will not die!

They feared the judgment of God, knowing that their rebellion deserved punishment.

Exo 20:19 “Speak to us yourself and we will listen,” they said…
Deu 18:16 This is what you asked of the LORD your God…
Jdg 13:22 “We are going to die,” he said to his wife, ……

For we have added to all our sins

Israel confessed that demanding a king was not merely a political decision but another act in a continuing pattern of disobedience.

Ezr 9:6 O my God, I am ashamed and embarrassed…
Neh 9:33 You are just in all that has befallen us…
Hos 13:2 Now they sin more and more and make for themselves…

the evil of asking for a king.”

In seeking to be like the surrounding nations, they had rejected the Lord’s direct rule over them, though God would later establish His chosen kingly line through David.

1Sa 10:19 But today you have rejected your God, who saves you…
Hos 8:4 They set up kings, but not by Me. They make princes…
Hos 13:10-11 Where is your king now to save you in all your cities…

“Do not be afraid,”

Samuel addresses a people shaken by the storm God had sent and by the realization of their sin in asking for a king. Their guilt was real, but it did not place them beyond God’s mercy.

Jos 1:9 Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous?…
Isa 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid…
Luk 12:32 Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father…

Samuel replied.

As Israel’s judge and prophet, Samuel speaks with God-given authority during the nation’s transition to monarchy. He calls the people to remain faithful to the LORD even under their new king.

1Sa 3:10 Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before,…
1Sa 7:3 Then Samuel said to all the house of Israel,…
1Sa 15:22 But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in…

“Even though you have committed all this evil,

Israel had rejected the LORD’s direct rule by demanding a king like the surrounding nations. Samuel neither minimizes their rebellion nor leaves them in despair.

Ezk 18:21-23 But if the wicked man turns from all the sins…
Deu 30:1-3 When all these things come upon you—the blessings and curses…
Isa 1:18 “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD.…

do not turn aside from following the LORD,

Their past sin was not permission for further disobedience. Israel was to reject idols and remain loyal to the God who had chosen, delivered, and preserved them.

Deu 5:32-33 So be careful to do as the LORD your God has commanded you;…
Jos 23:6 Be very strong, then, so that you can keep and obey…
1Ki 18:21 Then Elijah approached all the people and said,…

but serve the LORD with all your heart.

True repentance required wholehearted obedience, not merely fear after judgment. Israel’s future depended on continuing to honor the LORD above every human ruler.

Deu 10:12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you…
Jos 24:14 Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him…
1Ki 8:61 So let your heart be fully devoted to the LORD our God…

Do not turn aside after worthless things

Israel was to remain devoted to the LORD rather than follow the idols and religious practices of surrounding nations. Such turning aside involved abandoning covenant faithfulness for objects and pursuits unable to sustain life or secure God’s favor.

Jon 2:8 Those who cling to worthless idols forsake…
Psa 31:6 I hate those who cling to worthless idols,…
2Ki 17:15 They rejected His statutes and the covenant…

that cannot profit you

Idols offered no true benefit. Though people expected them to bring fertility, protection, success, or prosperity, they possessed no power to provide what God alone could give.

Jer 2:11 Has a nation ever changed its gods? (Yet they are not gods…)…
Jer 16:19 O LORD, my strength and my fortress, my refuge…
Pro 10:2 Ill-gotten treasures profit nothing, but righteousness…

or deliver you,

Israel’s history showed that the LORD had rescued them from Egypt, defended them against enemies, and answered their cries in distress. False gods could not save them from military danger, national judgment, or the consequences of sin.

Psa 33:17 A horse is a vain hope for salvation; …
Jer 2:28 But where are the gods you made for yourselves?…
Isa 46:7 They lift it to their shoulder and carry it along;…

for they are empty.

Idols were empty because they were human-made and powerless. In contrast, the living God remained faithful to His people and able to preserve them.

1Co 8:4 So about eating food sacrificed to idols:…
Isa 41:29 See, they are all a delusion; their works amount to nothing;…
Psa 115:4-8 Their idols are silver and gold, made by the hands of men.…

Indeed, for the sake of His great name,

God’s dealings with Israel uphold the honor of His own character. Having revealed Himself through His covenant, deliverance, and judgments, He would not allow His faithfulness to be called into question.

Psa 106:8 Yet He saved them for the sake of His name,…
Ezk 36:22 Therefore tell the house of Israel that this is…
Isa 48:11 For My own sake, My very own sake, I will act;…

the LORD will not abandon His people,

Though Israel had demanded a king and often resisted God’s rule, the LORD remained committed to the nation He had redeemed from Egypt and established in the land. His mercy did not excuse their sin, but it preserved them from being cast off.

Psa 94:14 For the LORD will not forsake His people;…
1Ki 6:13 And I will dwell among the Israelites…
Deu 31:6 Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified…

because He was pleased to make you His own.

Israel existed as God’s covenant people because He freely chose them, not because of their strength or righteousness. His purpose in making them His own secured the promise that He would continue to deal with them as their God.

Deu 7:6-8 For you are a people holy to the LORD your God.…
Deu 14:2 for you are a people holy to the LORD your God.…
Psa 135:4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob as His own,…

As for me,

Samuel accepts his own responsibility before God, setting his faithful service alongside Israel’s obligation to obey the Lord.

Jos 24:15 But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD,…
Psa 119:106 I have sworn and confirmed that I will keep…
Psa 73:28 But as for me, it is good to draw near to God.…

far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD

He regards neglect of his calling as sin, recognizing that his authority as judge and prophet remains accountable to God.

Gen 44:17 Far be it from me to do this. The man who was found…
Gen 39:9 No one in this house is greater than I am.…
Psa 51:4 Against You, You only, have I sinned…

by ceasing to pray for you.

Though Israel had demanded a king, Samuel would continue to intercede for the nation, seeking God’s mercy and guidance for them.

1Sa 7:8 said to Samuel, “Do not stop crying out to the LORD our God”…
Col 1:9 we have not stopped praying for you and asking God…
Eph 1:16 I have not stopped giving thanks for you,…

And I will continue to teach you

Samuel would not withdraw from instructing the people after the establishment of the monarchy. His ministry included directing Israel according to God’s revealed will.

Psa 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go;…
Deu 4:1 Hear now, O Israel, the statutes and ordinances…
Ezr 7:10 For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD,…

the good and right way.

The path before Israel was obedience to the Lord’s commands, marked by faithfulness, justice, and wholehearted fear of God.

1Ki 8:36 then may You hear from heaven and forgive the sin…
Deu 6:18 Do what is right and good in the sight of the LORD,…
Psa 25:8-9 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He shows sinners…

Above all, fear the LORD

Israel’s request for a king had not displaced the LORD as their true King. Samuel calls the nation to reverence God’s holiness, authority, and covenant rule rather than placing ultimate trust in human leadership.

Deu 10:12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you…
Psa 34:9 Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him…
Pro 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,…

and serve Him faithfully

Their life under a monarchy was to remain marked by obedient loyalty to God. Worship and service were to arise from submission to His commands, not merely public religious observance.

Jos 24:14 Now, therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him…
1Ch 28:9 As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father…
Rom 12:11 Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor,…

with all your heart;

God required the undivided devotion of His people—their wills, affections, and decisions fully directed toward Him.

Jos 22:5 But be very careful to observe the commandment and the law…
Deu 6:5 And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart…
Jer 29:13 You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me…

consider what great things He has done for you.

Israel was to remember the LORD’s deliverance from Egypt, His provision in the wilderness, and His preservation in the land. Recalling His works gave them reason to trust and obey Him as they entered a new era under a king.

Psa 126:3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are filled…
Psa 71:19 Your righteousness reaches to the heavens, O God,…
Mrk 5:19 But Jesus would not allow him. “Go home to your own”…

But if you persist in doing evil,

Israel’s future depended on continued faithfulness to the Lord. Deliberate, ongoing rebellion through idolatry, disregard for God’s commands, and moral corruption would bring covenant judgment rather than blessing.

Deu 30:17-18 But if your heart turns away and you do not listen,…
2Ch 36:15-16 Again and again the LORD, the God of their fathers,…
Rom 2:5 But because of your hard and unrepentant heart,…

both you and your king

The people and Saul shared responsibility before God. Israel had requested a human king, but the king remained subject to the Lord and was accountable for leading the nation in obedience. His unfaithfulness could bring consequences upon the whole nation.

2Ki 24:14-16 He carried into exile all Jerusalem—all the commanders…
Jer 52:11-15 Then he put out Zedekiah’s eyes, bound him…
2Ch 36:17-20 So He brought up against them the king of the Chaldeans,…

will be swept away.”

Persistent rebellion would result in ruin for both ruler and people. Samuel’s warning anticipated the judgment that later came upon Israel and Judah when their generations continued in idolatry and rejected God’s word.

Zep 1:2-3 “I will completely sweep away everything,” declares the LORD.…
Isa 8:7-8 the Lord will surely bring against them the floodwaters…
Nam 1:8 But with an overwhelming flood He will make an end…

This is a draft of the Berean Study Bible. Please send all comments and recommendations to bereanstudybible@aol.com.



Bible Hub


1 Samuel 11
Top of Page
Top of Page