The Story of God Samuel

I & 2 Samuel are one book I Samuel 1-7 focuses upon Samuel, with a conclusion in 7.15-17 I Samuel 8-14 focuses on Saul, with a conclusion in 14.47-52 I Samuel 15-II Samuel 8 focus on David, with a conclusion in 8.15-18 II Samuel 9-20 focus on David, with a conclusion in 20.23-26 II Samuel 21-14 focus on the kingdom They were divided into two books in the Septuagint, which was completed around 130 BC. The division and outline are from Dale Ralph Davis’ commentaries on I and II Samuel

The events in the book follow the pattern set forth in two songs in the book I Samuel 2.1-10 II Samuel 22.1-51 (Psalm 18) Hannah’s poem comes at the beginning of the book, and sets the tone of interpreting the book David’s poem is at the end—a reflection that validates the interpretation

What is the interpretation? A physically barren woman (probably reflecting the spiritual condition of the nation during the time of Judges) appeals to the God of the universe for help. 1.11 Through God’s intervention, Hannah interprets His action God protects His people, vindicates the righteous, and destroys the wicked.

David’s song is a reflection of his reign, and it contains the same themes Neither Hannah nor David talk about their accomplishments, or their strengths They talk about God’s accomplishments, and His strength

I Samuel I Samuel 1-7 A prophet from God: Samuel I Samuel 8-14 A king in the place of God: Saul I Samuel 15-31 A king is pursuit of God: David This is an outline. The characters overlap and interact with each other in various places. This outline simply reflects which character is “major” at the time. For instance, the “end” of Saul’s reign is recorded in 14.49-52. Chapter 15 serves as the introduction of king David more than anything. Saul is the contrast to such a man

Samuel (1-7) Is born out of supernatural circumstances Gave himself completely to the Lord, in opposition to Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phineas Judged Israel during its darkest times of defeat by the Philistines, to the time of Israel defeating the Philistines, 7.13-17 Yet leaves no godly seed. I Samuel 8.3 The absence of godly sons makes an important contribution to the storyline of the Bible.

But this man has disaster written all over him from the beginning Saul (8-14) Chosen as the first king of Israel, he represents a new Adam—a fresh beginning for Israel But this man has disaster written all over him from the beginning 2.3; 9.2; 16.7 He quickly oversteps his bounds. 13.8-14 “Exceeding proud” is the same Hebrew word repeated twice. That is their form of emphasis.

He disobeys the clear command of God. 15. But he did manage to build himself a monument. 15.12 Dies without a godly seed. I Samuel 31.6

David 16.7 is the king after God’s heart 17—the Goliath story is a story about David’s faith, not his strength 18-30—nothing can keep David from becoming the king. And, David’s relationship with God is often contrasted with Saul’s “non-relationship” 31—Saul comes to an end David also died without a godly seed—One of the saddest statements in the Bible is II Samuel 23.1-5