Topical Encyclopedia The anointing of David by the prophet Samuel is a pivotal event in the biblical narrative, marking the divine selection of David as the future king of Israel. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 16 and is significant for its demonstration of God's sovereign choice and the establishment of David's lineage, which ultimately leads to the birth of Jesus Christ, the Messiah.Context and Background The backdrop to David's anointing is the rejection of Saul as king. Saul, the first king of Israel, was chosen by God but later rejected due to his disobedience and failure to follow God's commands. In 1 Samuel 15:26, Samuel tells Saul, "I will not return with you, for you have rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD has rejected you as king over Israel." God's Instruction to Samuel In 1 Samuel 16:1, the LORD instructs Samuel to stop mourning for Saul and to anoint a new king: "Fill your horn with oil and go. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have selected a king for Myself from among his sons." This command sets the stage for the anointing of David, a young shepherd from Bethlehem. The Anointing of David Samuel travels to Bethlehem under the guise of offering a sacrifice, as he fears Saul's reaction if he learns of the mission. Upon arrival, Samuel invites Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice. As each of Jesse's sons passes before Samuel, the LORD makes it clear that none of them is His chosen one. In 1 Samuel 16:7, God provides a key insight into His criteria for selection: "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." Finally, David, the youngest son, who was tending sheep, is brought before Samuel. The LORD confirms His choice: "Rise and anoint him, for he is the one" (1 Samuel 16:12). Samuel anoints David in the presence of his brothers, and "the Spirit of the LORD rushed upon David from that day forward" (1 Samuel 16:13). Significance of the Anointing The anointing of David signifies God's sovereign choice and His ability to see beyond human appearances to the heart. David, though young and seemingly insignificant, is chosen because of his heart for God. This event foreshadows David's future as a man after God's own heart and the establishment of his dynasty, which is central to the biblical narrative. The anointing also marks the beginning of a new era for Israel. While Saul remains king for a time, the Spirit of the LORD departs from him, and he is tormented by an evil spirit (1 Samuel 16:14). David's anointing sets in motion a series of events that will lead to his eventual rise to the throne and the unification of Israel under his leadership. Theological Implications David's anointing underscores the theme of divine election and the importance of inner character over external attributes. It highlights God's providential guidance in the history of Israel and His ultimate plan for redemption through the Davidic line. David's role as the anointed king prefigures the coming of Jesus Christ, the Anointed One, who fulfills the promises made to David and establishes an eternal kingdom. In summary, the anointing of David by Samuel is a testament to God's sovereign will and His ability to work through unlikely individuals to accomplish His purposes. It is a foundational moment in the biblical narrative, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through the lineage of David. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 16:1And the LORD said to Samuel, How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill your horn with oil, and go, I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons. Nave's Topical Index Library Blessed be He that Ordained Baptism, for the Atonement of the Sons ... Letter Xli. St. Ambrose in this Letter to his Sister Continues the ... Adoption Sanctification The Second Commandment The Fourth Theological Oration, which is the Second Concerning the ... The Fourth Commandment Resources Summary of the Book of 2 Samuel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7)? | GotQuestions.org Why are there contradictory accounts regarding the death of Saul in 1 and 2 Samuel? | GotQuestions.org Samuel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Samuel: A Judge (Leader) of Israel, his Judgment Seat at Beth-El, Gilgal, Mizpeh, and Ramah Samuel: A Prophet of the Israelites Samuel: Anoints David to be King Samuel: Anoints Saul to be King of Israel Samuel: Called up by the Witch of Endor Samuel: Consecrated to God Before his Birth Samuel: Death of; the Lament for Him Samuel: His Integrity As a Judge and Ruler Samuel: His Mother's Song of Thanksgiving Samuel: His Vision Concerning the House of Eli Samuel: Israelites Repent Because of his Reproofs and Warnings Samuel: Makes his Corrupt Sons Judges in Israel Samuel: Ministered in the House of God Samuel: Organizes the Tabernacle Service Samuel: People Desire a King; he Protests Samuel: Renews the Kingdom of Saul Samuel: Reproves Saul; Foretells That his Kingdom Will be Established Samuel: Shelters David While Escaping from Saul Samuel: The Philistines Defeated Through his Intercession and Sacrifices Related Terms |
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