Topical Encyclopedia Samuel, a pivotal figure in the history of Israel, is renowned for his role as a prophet, judge, and leader. His ministry in the house of God marks a significant period in the biblical narrative, illustrating his dedication and service to the Lord from a young age.Early Life and Dedication Samuel's account begins with his mother, Hannah, who was barren and fervently prayed for a child. In her supplication, she vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord's service. The Lord answered her prayer, and she bore a son, naming him Samuel, meaning "heard of God" (1 Samuel 1:20). True to her vow, Hannah brought Samuel to the house of the Lord at Shiloh, where he was to serve under Eli the priest (1 Samuel 1:24-28). Service in the Tabernacle From a young age, Samuel ministered before the Lord, wearing a linen ephod, a garment associated with priestly service (1 Samuel 2:18). His duties in the tabernacle were not merely ceremonial; they were a preparation for his future role as a leader of Israel. The Scriptures note that "the boy Samuel continued to grow in stature and in favor with the LORD and with men" (1 Samuel 2:26), indicating his spiritual and social development. The Call of Samuel A defining moment in Samuel's ministry occurred when the Lord called him during the night. Initially, Samuel did not recognize the voice of the Lord and mistook it for Eli's. After Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy, he instructed Samuel to respond, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9). This encounter marked the beginning of Samuel's prophetic ministry, as "the LORD was with Samuel as he grew, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19). Role as Prophet and Judge Samuel's ministry extended beyond the tabernacle as he became a prophet and judge over Israel. He played a crucial role in guiding the nation during a time of transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of the monarchy. Samuel anointed Saul as the first king of Israel and later anointed David, a man after God's own heart, to succeed Saul (1 Samuel 10:1, 16:13). Legacy Samuel's life and ministry in the house of God set a standard for faithful service and obedience to the Lord. His dedication from childhood, his responsiveness to God's call, and his leadership in Israel underscore the importance of a life committed to God's purposes. Samuel's influence is evident throughout the biblical narrative, and his legacy as a servant of the Lord continues to inspire believers today. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 2:11,18,19And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister to the LORD before Eli the priest. Nave's Topical Index Library Work for Boys. 1 Samuel iii. I. --There is Work in God's House for ... Reverence in Worship. The Child Prophet Concerning Our Lord's Genealogy and Concerning the Holy Mother of ... Obadiah; Or, Early Piety Eminent Piety The Birth of Mary the Holy Mother of God, and Very Glorious Mother ... A Treatise against the Heretic Novatian by an Anonymous Bishop. The Temple Cleansed Again The Sins of the Men of Old Time, which Incurred the Displeasure of ... Oration Concerning Simeon and Anna Resources What were the emerods God afflicted the Philistines with in 1 Samuel 5? | GotQuestions.orgWho was David in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Did the witch of Endor really summon Samuel from the dead (1 Samuel 28:7-20)? | 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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