Topical Encyclopedia Introduction:Samuel is a pivotal figure in the history of Israel, serving as the last judge, a prophet, and the anointer of the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. His life and ministry are chronicled primarily in the books of 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. Samuel's role in transitioning Israel from a confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy marks him as a significant leader in biblical history. Birth and Early Life: Samuel's account begins with his mother, Hannah, who was barren and fervently prayed for a child. In her prayer, she vowed to dedicate her son to the Lord's service. God answered her prayer, and Samuel was born. True to her vow, Hannah brought Samuel to the tabernacle at Shiloh to serve under Eli the priest (1 Samuel 1:20-28). Calling and Ministry: Samuel's calling as a prophet is marked by a divine encounter while he was still a boy. The Lord called Samuel by name, and after some initial confusion, Samuel responded, "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). This marked the beginning of his prophetic ministry, during which "the LORD was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19). Role as Judge and Prophet: Samuel served as a judge over Israel, leading the people in military victories and spiritual renewal. He called the nation to repentance and led them in turning away from idolatry (1 Samuel 7:3-6). Samuel's leadership was characterized by his commitment to God's law and his role as an intermediary between God and the people. Anointing of Kings: As Israel clamored for a king to lead them like other nations, Samuel was directed by God to anoint Saul as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9:15-17). Despite initial success, Saul's disobedience led to his rejection by God. Samuel was then sent to anoint David, a shepherd boy, as Saul's successor (1 Samuel 16:1-13). Samuel's anointing of David set the stage for the Davidic dynasty, which would have lasting significance in Israel's history. Legacy and Death: Samuel's influence extended beyond his lifetime. He is remembered as a man of prayer, integrity, and unwavering dedication to God. His death was mourned by all of Israel, and he was buried in his hometown of Ramah (1 Samuel 25:1). Samuel's legacy is reflected in his role as a bridge between the era of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy, as well as in his unwavering commitment to God's purposes for Israel. Biblical References: · Birth and Dedication: 1 Samuel 1:20-28 · Calling: 1 Samuel 3:1-21 · Leadership and Judgeship: 1 Samuel 7:3-17 · Anointing of Saul: 1 Samuel 9:15-10:1 · Anointing of David: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 · Death: 1 Samuel 25:1 Samuel's life and ministry exemplify obedience to God and the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding a nation according to divine principles. His account continues to inspire and instruct believers in the importance of faithfulness and dedication to God's calling. Library The Old Judge and the Young King Hushed was the Evening Hymn Faithlessness and Defeat Samuel Early Days Repentance and victory The King after Man's Heart Divine Calls. The Word of God. 'Make us a King' Thesaurus Samuel's (6 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Samuel's (6 Occurrences). 1 Samuel 3:4 The voice of the Lord said Samuel's name; and he said, Here am I. (BBE). ... /s/samuel's.htm - 8k Intercession (12 Occurrences) Nazirite (10 Occurrences) Saul (371 Occurrences) Vashni (1 Occurrence) Zuph (3 Occurrences) Joel (22 Occurrences) Fleshhook (2 Occurrences) Flesh-hook (2 Occurrences) Tohu (1 Occurrence) Resources Who was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Eli in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was King Saul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Samuel's (6 Occurrences)1 Samuel 3:4 1 Samuel 3:8 1 Samuel 7:13 1 Samuel 10:16 1 Samuel 19:24 1 Samuel 28:20 Subtopics Related Terms |
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