And the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with man. And the boy SamuelSamuel was dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, as a fulfillment of her vow. He was raised in the tabernacle at Shiloh under the priest Eli. This setting is significant as it was a time of spiritual decline in Israel, with corrupt priests like Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Samuel's presence in the tabernacle symbolizes a new beginning and hope for Israel. 1Sa 3:1 And the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli.… continued to grow in stature This phrase indicates Samuel's physical growth and development. It parallels the growth of other significant biblical figures, such as Jesus, who "grew in wisdom and stature" (Luke 2:52). It suggests that Samuel was healthy and strong, preparing him for the leadership role he would eventually assume as a prophet and judge over Israel. Luk 2:52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and… and in favor with the LORD Samuel's favor with the Lord highlights his spiritual growth and the divine approval of his life and actions. Unlike Eli's sons, who were corrupt and disobedient, Samuel's life was marked by obedience and dedication to God. This favor is reminiscent of other biblical figures like Joseph and David, who also found favor with God due to their faithfulness. Pro 12:2 The good man obtains favor from the LORD, but… and with man. Samuel's favor with man indicates that he was respected and admired by those around him. This is significant in a time when the priesthood was marred by corruption. Samuel's integrity and dedication set him apart, earning him the respect of the people. This dual favor with God and man is a precursor to the ministry of Jesus, who also grew in favor with God and man, as noted in the New Testament. Pro 3:4 Then you will find favor and high regard… Persons / Places / Events 1. SamuelA young boy dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, serving under the priest Eli in the tabernacle at Shiloh. Samuel is a pivotal figure in Israel's history, serving as a prophet, priest, and judge. 2. Eli The high priest at Shiloh, under whose guidance Samuel is growing. Eli's own sons are corrupt, contrasting with Samuel's righteous development. 3. Shiloh The religious center of Israel at the time, where the tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant are located. It is here that Samuel serves and grows. 4. Hannah Samuel's mother, who prayed fervently for a child and dedicated Samuel to the Lord's service as a fulfillment of her vow. 5. The LORD The God of Israel, who shows favor to Samuel as he grows, indicating divine approval and blessing. Teaching Points Balanced GrowthJust as Samuel grew in stature and favor with both God and men, Christians are called to pursue holistic growth—spiritually, physically, and socially. Divine Favor Seeking God's favor should be a priority in our lives. This involves living a life of obedience, faithfulness, and dedication to God's will. Role Models Samuel serves as a role model for young believers, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to spiritual maturity and influence. Contrast with Corruption Samuel's growth in favor contrasts with the corruption of Eli's sons, reminding us of the importance of integrity and righteousness. Parental Influence Hannah's dedication of Samuel to the Lord underscores the impact of parental faith and commitment on a child's spiritual development. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Samuel's growth in favor with God and men challenge you in your personal spiritual journey?2. In what ways can you seek to grow in wisdom and stature in your current stage of life, similar to Samuel and Jesus? 3. How can the example of Samuel's life influence your interactions with others, especially in maintaining integrity and righteousness? 4. What role does divine favor play in your life, and how can you actively seek it through your daily actions and decisions? 5. Reflect on the influence of parental or spiritual mentors in your life. How can you be a positive influence on the next generation, as Hannah was for Samuel? Connections to Other Scriptures Luke 2:52This verse parallels Samuel's growth with that of Jesus, who also "grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." It highlights the importance of balanced growth in spiritual, physical, and social aspects. Proverbs 3:3-4 These verses emphasize the importance of maintaining love and faithfulness to gain favor and a good name in the sight of God and man, similar to Samuel's experience. 1 Timothy 4:12 Paul encourages Timothy to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, reflecting the kind of growth and favor Samuel experienced.
People Eli, Elkanah, Hannah, Hophni, Israelites, Pharaoh, Phinehas, SamuelPlaces Egypt, Ramah, ShilohTopics Approval, Becoming, Boy, Child, Continued, Favor, Favour, Grew, Grow, Growing, Increased, Older, Samuel, Stature, YouthDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 2:26 1055 God, grace and mercy Library The Child Prophet'And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision. 2. And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; 8. And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; 4. That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. 5. And he ran onto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture Reverence in Worship. The Knowledge of God Though the Fore-Mentioned Eternal Moral Obligations Letter xxix. To Marcella. A Private Enquiry Appendix xix. On Eternal Punishment, According to the Rabbis and the New Testament Covenanting a Privilege of Believers. The Mystery Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory. Sanctification. Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity. The Sun Rising Upon a Dark World Entire Sanctification The Holiness of God Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C. Samuel Links 1 Samuel 2:26 NIV1 Samuel 2:26 NLT 1 Samuel 2:26 ESV 1 Samuel 2:26 NASB 1 Samuel 2:26 KJV 1 Samuel 2:26 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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