What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 28:2? David replied • David’s immediate response to Achish shows composure under pressure. • Having lived among the Philistines since 1 Samuel 27:2–3, David has built a credible façade of loyalty (1 Samuel 27:12). • His answer keeps options open, neither lying outright nor exposing his true allegiance to Israel (compare 1 Samuel 21:10–15, where David also acted shrewdly). “Then you will come to know what your servant can do.” • David’s words hint at proven skill—battle victories celebrated in earlier chapters (1 Samuel 17:45–50; 18:7). • “Your servant” maintains humility, yet the future-oriented phrase “you will come to know” suggests a pending revelation of God-given ability (Psalm 18:34; 1 Samuel 24:12). • This statement quietly trusts that the Lord will direct events, as He has since Samuel anointed David (1 Samuel 16:13). “Very well,” said Achish. • Achish’s ready approval signals how fully he has accepted David’s ruse (1 Samuel 27:1, 27:12). • The Philistine king’s confidence contrasts with Saul’s distrust (1 Samuel 18:11; 24:17), highlighting the irony of the moment. • Achish becomes an unwitting instrument in God’s larger plan to protect David from Saul (Proverbs 21:1). “I will make you my bodyguard for life.” • Achish promises David a position of highest trust—permanent personal protector. Similar elite guards served other rulers (2 Samuel 15:18). • The offer deepens David’s predicament: standing with Philistines against Israel would be unthinkable (Deuteronomy 7:2). • God’s providence soon resolves the tension by removing David from the battlefield (1 Samuel 29:6–11). summary 1 Samuel 28:2 captures a tense exchange in which David, relying on the Lord’s guidance, answers Achish in a way that preserves his integrity while avoiding disclosure of his true loyalty. Achish, deceived by David’s earlier actions, entrusts him with the role of lifelong bodyguard. The verse underscores God’s sovereignty: even Philistine plans serve His purpose of safeguarding the future king of Israel until the right moment of deliverance arrives. |
    |