What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 28:17? He has done exactly what He spoke through me • This statement recalls Samuel’s earlier messages to Saul (1 Samuel 13:13-14; 15:23-29). God’s word, once given, never fails (Joshua 21:45; Isaiah 55:10-11). • The medium at Endor has become an unwitting conduit for Samuel’s unchanging prophecy—underscoring that even in a setting Saul never should have entered (Deuteronomy 18:10-12), the Lord’s pronouncement stands firm. • Saul is reminded that disobedience does not cancel God’s promises or warnings. He hears again what he once ignored: “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22-23). The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand • “Torn” pictures decisive, irreversible judgment, echoing the moment Samuel tore Saul’s robe (1 Samuel 15:27-28). • God Himself—not political rivals or military failures—removes Saul. His sovereignty is absolute (Daniel 2:21; Psalm 75:6-7). • The tragedy: Saul’s loss is self-inflicted. Persistent rebellion (1 Samuel 15:11; 28:6) forfeits the privilege God once bestowed (1 Samuel 9:16-17). and given it to your neighbor David • “Neighbor” points to David, already anointed in secret (1 Samuel 16:1-13) and increasingly recognized publicly (1 Samuel 18:16; 23:17). • God’s transfer of authority highlights His positive purpose—even judgment makes way for a man after His own heart (Acts 13:22). • The shift anticipates Christ, the ultimate Shepherd-King from David’s line (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Luke 1:32-33). summary 1 Samuel 28:17 confirms that God faithfully carries out His spoken word. Saul’s kingdom is torn away because he rejected divine instruction; David receives it because God exalts the humble. The verse warns against stubborn disobedience and reassures us that the Lord’s purposes stand, securing hope for all who yield to His reign. |
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