Institute - 2018 - 1 Samuel - Workbook - Web 3

First
S A M U E L
A King Unlike the Nations

First
s a m u e l
A King Unlike the Nations
Written by Aina Carruth, Jenni Hamm,

Kelsey Hency, Jamin Roller and Jen Wilkin
Edited by Collin Huber, Jenna Lusk,

Jen Wilkin and Elizabeth Woodson
designed by Laura Johns
© 2018 The Village Church

2101 Justin Road, Flower Mound, Texas.
All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible

(The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®),
© 2001 by Crossway, a publishing
ministry of Good News Publishers.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Select definitions of the attributes of

God were informed by The ABCs of God,
© 2011 Children Desiring God.
ta ble of con t en ts
Week 1 8 Introduction to the Book of 1 Samuel
week 2 10 Opposing the Proud, Exalting the Humble | Ch. 1–3
week 3 26 The Philistines and the Ark | Ch. 4:1–7:2
week 4 42 A King Like the Nations | Ch. 7:3–10:27
week 5 60 Saul’s Victory and Unfaithfulness | Ch. 11–13
week 6 76 Saul’s Downfall | Ch. 14–15
week 7 92 A New King | Ch. 16–19
week 8 108 David’s First Flight | Ch. 20–24
week 9 124 David’s Second and Third Flights | Ch. 25–28
week 10 142 David, the Philistines and the Amalekites | Ch. 29–31
week 11 160 Wrap-Up

Appendix A: Map of Israel at the Time of 1 Samuel
Appendix B: Attributes of God

5
pr eface
OUR PURPOSE Reading the Bible can be confusing. Because

This study is designed to help you grow in Bible nobody likes to feel lost or confused, most of
literacy. In doing so, it has two goals: First, it us rush to a commentary as quickly as possible
seeks to teach you a book of the Bible in a way to resolve our discomfort. That is actually the
that will enable you to retain what you learn. first sign that learning is about to occur, the
first step in gaining and holding on to under-
Second, it seeks to train you to ask better ques- standing. We need to learn to welcome the
tions of any biblical text on your own. Many discomfort as a sign that our minds are being
of us come to our study of the Bible eager to prepared for receiving instruction.
pull from it wisdom that will help us to live
differently. And we should. But before we can Because of this, for the purpose of our study
move from awareness of what we don’t know here, please do not reference commentaries
of the text to awareness of what we should do until comprehension, interpretation and
in response to the text, we must move through application have been earnestly attempted
the learning process. This study is designed on your own. In other words, wait to read
to help you learn and employ that process. commentaries until after you have completed
the homework, attended small group time and
It is a simple formula of approaching the text listened to the teaching. And then consult
first for comprehension, next for interpretation commentaries you can trust. We recommend
and finally for application. Each stage of this the following commentaries:
learning process asks a critical question:
1 Samuel, 2 Samuel by Dale Ralph Davis;

Comprehension asks, “What does it say?”
Focus on the Bible, 2000, 2002
Interpretation asks, “What does it mean?”
Application asks, “How should it change me?”
1 & 2 Samuel by Bill T. Arnold; NIV
Application Commentary, 2003
If we rush too quickly to application, we
short-circuit the learning process and limit our
1 & 2 Samuel by Joyce Baldwin; Tyndale
ability to retain what we have learned. Not only
Old Testament Commentaries, 1988
that, but application that is not built on careful
comprehension and interpretation is unlikely
to be faithful to the text. All three steps matter.
But they require patience on our part.
6
Remember that commentaries are not just One of the most important skills we can
books written about 1 Samuel. Sources of com- develop as students of the Scriptures is learn-
mentary include study Bible notes, sermons, ing to look for what is true about God as we
podcasts, blog posts and articles. These are all read. At the end of each week’s homework,
great helps when used responsibly, but if used you will be challenged to meditate on what
before we have studied on our own, they can you have learned about God in that week’s
keep us from developing the mental muscles portion of the text. To aid you in this, a list
that accompany a mature faith. of the attributes of God can be found on the
last two pages of the workbook.
Each week, you will be asked to complete
homework that will help train you in how to
comprehend, interpret and apply Scripture.
We will utilize the specific tools below to help
develop our study skills.
COMPREHENSION I N T E R P R E TAT I O N
What does it say? What does it mean?
⊲ Read the passage repetitively. ⊲ Explore why the author would have
⊲ Read the passage in multiple used a particular word or phrase,
translations. or why he would have made
⊲ Look up key words in the dictionary. a particular point the way he
⊲ Write a main idea or draw a picture made it. Keep in mind the textual,
in the margin next to the section it historical and cultural context.
describes. ⊲ Make connections to other parts
⊲ Note any literary techniques that of the book or other parts of the
the author is using. Pay attention Bible (cross-references).
to genre rules. ⊲ Paraphrase or summarize part
⊲ Look for repeated ideas, connected or all of the passage.
ideas or progressions of thought and
mark them.
⊲ Look for what the passage teaches
is true about God (attributes).
7
H OW TO U S E TH I S S TU DY • If you are going through the study on your

This workbook is designed to be used in a spe- own, first work through the homework and
cific way. The homework in the workbook will then listen to the corresponding audio for
start you down the process of comprehension, that week.
interpretation and application. However, it
is intended to dovetail with small group dis- • If you are going through the study in a group,
cussion time and the audio/video teachings. first do your homework, then discuss the
You can use the workbook by itself, but you questions your group decides to cover, and
are likely to find yourself with some unre- then listen to the teaching. Some groups
solved questions. The audio/video teaching listen to the teaching before they meet,
is intended to resolve most, if not all, of your which can also work if that format fits best
unanswered questions from the homework for everyone.
and discussion time. With this in mind, con-
sider using the materials as follows:
A P P L I C AT I O N
How should it change me?
⊲ Consider how what the passage

teaches about God should change
the way you think, speak or act.
⊲ Make meaningful connections to
your own life:
• Is there a sin to confess?
• Is there cause for thanksgiving
or praise to God?
• Is there a promise or truth to trust in?
• Is there an attitude to change
or a motive to examine?
• Is there a command to obey
or an example to imitate?
• Is there an error to confront
or avoid?
8
1
Introduction
1 Samuel
Imagine yourself receiving a letter in the mail. The envelope is

handwritten, but you don’t glance at the return address. Instead
you tear open the envelope, flip to the second page, read two
paragraphs near the bottom, and set the letter aside. Knowing
that if someone bothered to send it to you, you should act on its
contents in some way, you spend a few minutes trying to figure
out how to respond to what the section you just read had to say.
What are the odds you will be successful? No one would read
a letter this way. But this is precisely the way many of us read
our Bibles. We skip past reading the “envelope”—Who wrote
this? To whom is it written? When was it written? Where was it
written?—and then try to determine the purpose of its contents
from a portion of the whole. What if we took time to read the
envelope? What if, after determining the context for its writing,
we started at the beginning and read to the end? Wouldn’t
that make infinitely more sense? In our study, we will take this
approach to Scripture. We will begin by placing our text in its
historical and cultural context. We will “read the envelope.”
W E E K O N E Introduction to the Book of 1 Samuel 9
1. Who wrote the book of 1 Samuel?
2. To whom was it written?
3. When was it written?
4. In what style was it written?
5. What are the central themes of the book?

10
2
Opposing the
Proud, Exalting
the Humble
1 Samuel 1–3
The story of Samuel the prophet begins much like other stories
of God’s faithfulness: in conflict, corruption and barrenness.
The word of the Lord has suffered neglect, the priests of the
Lord exploit the faithful, and a woman named Hannah cannot
bear a child. Infertility was the greatest stigma known to
women of Hannah’s time and culture. But though her womb
may be barren, her faith is rooted deep. God grants her prayer,
and she shows herself to be a woman of her word. As the sons
of Eli fatten themselves in the day of slaughter, this daughter
of lack brings to the house of God a precious and pleasing
sacrifice: a son with an ear attuned to the voice of the Lord.
W E E K T W O Opposing the Proud, Exalting the Humble 11
⊲ READ 1. Summarize what happens in each chapter in 2–3 sentences.

1 Samuel 1–3
from start Chapter 1:
to finish.
Chapter 2:
Chapter 3:
2. Match each major character introduced in these

chapters to the description that fits them:

Elkanah Priest, father of faithless sons
Hannah Child dedicated to service to God
Peninnah Favored wife, mother of Samuel
Eli Wicked priests
Hophni/Phinehas Cruel rival wife
Samuel Husband of two wives
Next to each character’s name, note a +, - or N depending

on whether you think the author wants you to view that
character in a positive, negative or neutral light.
12 W E E K T W O Opposing the Proud, Exalting the Humble
⊲ EXPLORE 3. In 1:1, we learn Elkanah’s pedigree and hometown. Though he

Now shift comes from the hill country of Ephraim, he does not belong
your focus to the tribe of Ephraim. Look up 1 Chronicles 6:16–30. In
to 1 Samuel which verses do you find the names of Elkanah and Samuel?
1:1–20.
From which tribe are Elkanah and Samuel descended? Why

does this make sense, in light of the whole story of Samuel?
4. The men of Israel were commanded to attend feasts at the

central place of worship three times a year (Deut. 16:1–17).
Where was the central location of the Tabernacle during
Elkanah’s time (1:3)? Did Elkanah attend the feasts alone?
5. Describe the dynamic between Elkanah and his two

wives (1:4–8). In what ways does Peninnah create trouble?
In what ways does Elkanah add to the strain?
6. Why do you think the text paints such a strained

picture of Elkanah’s household dynamic? Look
up Genesis 2:24 to help with your answer.
7. What vow does Hannah make to the Lord

(1:11)? Summarize it in your own words.
8. Why does Hannah vow that no razor will touch the head of
her child? Look up Numbers 6:1–21 and skim this chapter
to see what you can learn about this particular vow.

What was it called?
What was its purpose?
Was it typically lifelong?
What other men can you think of in the

Bible who lived under this vow?

9. What does Eli mistakenly believe about Hannah when he

sees her praying (1:12–14)? Based on your knowledge of
chapter 2, why do you think he draws this conclusion?
10. Note Hannah’s response to Eli’s benediction (1:18).

What does it reveal about her character?
▼ A P P LY
Based on human
logic, Hannah faced
a hopeless situation.
When has the Lord
allowed you to face a
seemingly hopeless
situation in order to
prove Himself faithful?
What should we
believe about the role
of prayer during our
times of hopelessness?
⊲ EXPLORE 11. According to the law, Elkanah could have nullified

Now look at Hannah’s vow to the Lord (Num. 30:10–12). Instead,
1 Samuel how does he treat his wife and her vow (1:21–23)?
1:21–2:11.
12. It would have been common knowledge to the original audience

that a child was weaned around the age of 3. Why do you think
the author includes the final, brief description in 1:24?
13. Compare 1:28 in the ESV and the NET. How does the
NET expand your understanding of the verse?
14. Having fulfilled her vow to the Lord in great faithfulness,

Hannah prays to the Lord. How does her prayer in
2:1–11 contrast to her earlier prayers in 1:1–16? Describe
each “prayer session” in one phrase or sentence:
1:1–16
2:1–11
☐ At the end of this week’s homework, you will find the text
of Hannah’s prayer. Note as many attributes of God as you
can find. Underline the words or phrases associated with
each attribute. Use your list of attributes on the last two
pages of your workbook to help you with your marking.
▼ A P P LY
How should Hannah’s
prayers, both in grief
and in rejoicing,
instruct the way
you pray? Which
elements of her
prayers do you most
need to incorporate
into your own?
⊲ EXPLORE 15. When communicating the moral character of its subjects,

Now look at typically, historical narrative “shows” but does not “tell.”
1 Samuel It simply describes a person’s actions without commenting
2:12–36. on his or her morality, or lack thereof. Here, we find a rare
example of both telling and showing the character of Eli’s
sons, Hophni and Phinehas. In the chart, note everything
this section of the text tells and shows about them:
W H AT T H E T E X T T E L L S W H AT T H E T E X T S H O W S
16. What tender care does Hannah continue

to show to her son (2:19)?
What other article of clothing does Samuel wear (2:18)?

Look up Exodus 39:1–7 for a description of this
garment. For whom was this garment reserved?
17. In 2:18–21, we glimpse both what Hannah has

lost and what she has gained as a result of her
sacrifice. In your own words, describe both.
Lost:
Gained:
18. In 2:22–25, what does Eli do to address the sins

of his sons? What does he fail to do?
19. In 2:27–36, Eli receives a message from a “man of God.”

What are the first words the man speaks?
“Thus the ...”
Based on how this phrase is used elsewhere in the Bible, what

do these words tell us about the identity of the man of God?
☐ He is a priest.
☐ He is a prophet.
☐ He is an angel.
20. Summarize the man of God’s message in 2–3 sentences:
21. Though the narrative has focused on the wicked actions

of Eli’s sons, who does the man’s message accuse?
22. In the teaching time, we will look at the immediate

fulfillment of the faithful priest prophesied in 2:35. For
now, look up Hebrews 7:26–28 and note what you learn
about the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy:
▼ A P P LY
What lesson should
we learn from the
story of Eli? What
comfort can we
take from it?
⊲ EXPLORE 23. How does the information in 3:1–3 provide needed

Now look at context for what happens in the rest of the chapter?
1 Samuel
3:1–21.
24. In 2–3 sentences, summarize what happens in 3:4–14:
25. Based on the context of the passage, what do you

think 3:7 means? Rewrite it in your own words.
26. Why do you think the story repeats so much before

getting to the point? Why not just cut out verses
4–9? What do they add to our understanding?
27. Summarize God’s message to Samuel in 3:10–14:

28. What uncomfortable situation do God’s words create for Samuel

(3:15–18)? How might having to tell the prophecy to Eli be
good training for future situations Samuel would encounter?
29. Compare 3:19 in the ESV and the NET. How does
the NET add to your understanding?
Compare 3:21 in the ESV and the NIV. How does

the NIV add to your understanding?
▼ A P P LY
The first three chapters
of 1 Samuel show us
that “God opposes
the proud but gives
grace to the humble”
(James 4:6). How
have you witnessed
this principle in
your own life, both in
your pride and your
humility? Give an
example of each.
▲ WRAP-UP What aspect of God’s character has this week’s

See the list of passage of 1 Samuel shown you more clearly?
attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.
F I L L I N T H E F O L L O W I N G S TAT E M E N T:
Knowing that God is shows me that I am
What one step can you take this week

to better live in light of this truth?
f
H a n nah’S Pr ay er
1 Samuel 2:1–10
1
And Hannah prayed 4
The bows of the mighty to make them sit with princes
and said, are broken, and inherit a seat
but the feeble bind of honor.
“My heart exults in the LORD; on strength.
my horn is exalted For the pillars of the earth
in the LORD. 5
Those who were full are the LORD’s,
have hired themselves and on them he has
My mouth derides out for bread, set the world.
my enemies, but those who were hungry
because I rejoice in have ceased to hunger. 9
“He will guard the feet
your salvation. of his faithful ones,
The barren has borne seven, but the wicked shall be
2
“There is none holy but she who has many cut off in darkness,
like the LORD: children is forlorn. for not by might shall
for there is none a man prevail.
besides you; 6
The LORD kills and
there is no rock brings to life; 10
The adversaries of
like our God. he brings down to Sheol the LORD shall be
and raises up. broken to pieces;
3
Talk no more so against them he will
very proudly, 7
The LORD makes poor thunder in heaven.
let not arrogance come and makes rich;
from your mouth; he brings low and he exalts. The LORD will judge the
ends of the earth;
for the LORD is a God 8
He raises up the poor he will give strength
of knowledge, from the dust; to his king
and by him actions he lifts the needy from and exalt the horn of
are weighed. the ash heap his anointed.”
NOTES
26
3
The Philistines
and the Ark
1 Samuel 4:1–7:2
Last week, we saw the faithful longing of Hannah graciously

answered by God in the birth of Samuel. The sons of Eli
walked in prideful disobedience, while Samuel was set
apart and called to the work of the Lord. This week, we
will see the fruit of sin lead to death as the nation of Israel
foolishly goes to war with the Philistines, where they
suffer heavy casualties and lose the ark of the covenant.
Amidst their reckless behavior and its consequences, God
remains faithful even while allowing their defeat. Though
the enemy holds the ark of the covenant, the God of Israel
is not restrained. He stands ready to demonstrate His
holiness both to the Philistines and His covenant people.
W E E K T H R E E The Philistines and the Ark 27

1 Samuel
4:1–7:2 Chapter 4:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 5:
Chapter 6:
2. The ark of the covenant was the centerpiece of the Israelite

worship located in the inner sanctuary of the tabernacle.
It was a chest crafted according to God’s specifications,
symbolizing His power and presence. Underline each use of
“ark of the covenant” (ark of the Lord, ark of the God of Israel,
ark of God). How many times does it appear in 4:1–7:2?
Why do you think it is mentioned so frequently?

28 W E E K T H R E E The Philistines and the Ark
⊲ EXPLORE 3. Place the following events in chronological order:

Now shift
your focus The ark is captured by the Philistines in battle.
to 1 Samuel
4:1–11. The Israelites decide to bring the ark of the
covenant from Shiloh to help them win
the battle against the Philistines.
The Philistines defeat the Israelites in battle.
Panic of the “gods” of Israel drives the Philistines

to fight with more courage.
The Philistines defeat Israel in battle for

the second time in a severe slaughter.
The Israelites raise a shout so loud that

the ground shakes.
4. What accounts for Israel’s defeat in 4:2? Look up Deuteronomy

28:15, 25 to help you with your answer. How does their loss
make sense based on what we learned in 2:27–30?
5. The Philistines believed that deities actually dwelt

within idols. Describe their response to the knowledge
that “a god” had entered the camp of Israel. On what
past event do they base their feelings (4:6–9)?
Do you think their feelings changed after their victory?

Why or why not?
6. Compare the devastation of the first battle with

the Philistines with the second battle:
Israelite men were killed in the first battle (4:3).

Israelite men were killed in the second battle (4:10).
Why do you think Israel suffered more

severe losses in the second battle?
7. What do you think the Israelites hoped to accomplish

by bringing the ark of the covenant with them to war?
What was the faulty logic behind their decision?
8. Does it surprise you that God would allow His people to be

catastrophically defeated in battle? Why or why not? 
▼ A P P LY
In what ways do
modern-day believers
follow the example
of Israel, expecting
God’s favor on
their own terms?
Consider your own

life. What are some
ways you are tempted
to pursue your own
plans, expecting that
God will grant you
favor? What is a better
approach to follow?
⊲ EXPLORE 9. Word of Israel’s defeat comes quickly to Eli at

Now look at Shiloh. Why is Shiloh a significant place? Look back
1 Samuel at 1:3 and 4:3 to help you with your answer.
4:12–22.
10. Circle the word(s) that best describes Eli’s

mental state while Israel was at war:
Embarrassed Anxious Sad

Hopeful Watchful Fearful
What do you think was the underlying cause of his state of mind?
11. How does the city respond to the news of Israel’s defeat? Do
you think they were surprised? Why or why not (4:13b–14)?
12. Fill in the chart below, describing how Eli and his family
members are affected by the capture of the ark (4:12–17):
HOPHNI AND
PHINEAS
ELI
ELI’S
DAUGHTER-
IN-LAW
ICHABOD
13. Look back at 2:30–34. How was the word of the Lord
fulfilled through what happened in 4:12–17?
▼ A P P LY
Eli’s failure as high
priest ultimately
led to the capture
of the ark. How is
this story a warning
to the Church? To
you personally?
⊲ EXPLORE ☐ On the map in Appendix A, note the movement of

Now look at the ark in 5:1–6:13 through enemy territory.
1 Samuel
5:1–6:12. 14. The Philistines moved the captive ark from the
battlefield into the temple of Dagon, their principle god
of fertility and agriculture. What happens that shows the
supremacy of the God of Israel over Dagon (5:3–5)?  
How do you think the Philistines felt seeing what

happened to the statue of their god?
15. Holding the ark captive came with consequences.

Fill in the table, noting the specific events that
take place in each location (5:6–12):
CITY AFFLICTION RESPONSE OF THE PEOPLE
ASHDOD
G AT H
EKRON
16. What key event do the Philistines recognize as

being similar to their current plight (6:6)?
Note any parallels you see between that story and this one:
EXODUS 1 S A M U E L 6 : 5– 6
PHARAOH
THE CAPTIVE
ISRAELITES
THE PLAGUES
T H E R E S U LT O F
THE PLAGUES
17. How long do the Philistines suffer affliction

at the hands of the God of Israel (6:1)?
Summarize the creative plan suggested by the priests and

diviners of the Philistines for returning the ark (6:2–9).
18. How does their test prove that God had sovereignly
directed the ark’s return to Israel (6:10–12)?
▼ A P P LY
What does the
account of the ark of
the Lord in enemy
territory teach
about God’s power
and authority?
How does this

teaching encourage
you in your current
circumstances?
⊲ EXPLORE ☐ On the map in Appendix A, mark the

Now look at movement of the ark in 6:13–7:2.
1 Samuel
6:13–7:2.
19. Beth-shemesh was a town of Judah in Israel near

the Philistine border. Describe how the Israelites felt
about having the ark back in their possession:
6:13–15
6:20–21
20. Compare 1 Samuel 6:19 in the ESV and the NIV.

Why does God strike the men of Beth-shemesh?
Read Numbers 4:18–20 to help with your answer.
21. What does the action of “looking upon” or

inspecting the ark reveal about what these men
truly believed concerning God’s commands?
22. Fill in the blanks of the climactic question in 6:20:
“Who is able to stand before ,

this ?”
How would you answer this question?
▼ A P P LY
Read Psalm 24,
paying special
attention to verses
3–6. Who does this
psalm describe?
How does the answer

you wrote help you
serve God rightly,
with both a reverent
awe for His holiness
and a perfect
assurance regarding
His love for you?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
42
4
A King Like
the Nations
1 Samuel 7:3–10:27
Last week, we saw God’s holiness and justice on display

as both His enemies and His covenant people attempted
to use Him for their own means. The Israelites entered
into a familiar cycle of disobedience, affliction, repentance
and rescue. Amidst their losses, God graciously preserved
his prophet Samuel, the last judge of Israel. This week, we
will see what happens in the hearts of those who return
to the Lord and the victory found through trusting Him.
Yet, for Israel, even miraculous victories against their
enemies cannot overcome their forgetfulness. Israel
rejects God as King and looks for an earthly monarch
to take His place, so they may be like the nations.
W E E K F O U R A King Like the Nations 43

1 Samuel
7:3–10:27 Chapter 7:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 8:
Chapter 9:
Chapter 10:
2. Match each of the following characters from this

week’s reading with the most fitting description:
Samuel Anointed king of Israel 

Kish Asks for a king like other nations have 
Joel/Abijah Father of Saul, a Benjaminite 
Saul Wicked priests, sons of Samuel
People of Israel Judge of Israel who leads the nation
in repentance and a time of peace 
Next to each character’s name, note a +, - or N depending

on whether you think the author wants you to view that
character in a positive, negative or neutral light.
44 W E E K F O U R A King Like the Nations
⊲ EXPLORE 3. Twenty years have passed since the ark was taken to Kiriath-
Now shift jearim under the care of Eleazar. The nation of Israel has spent
your focus those years in lament after the Lord (7:1–2). Samuel presents
to 1 Samuel them with an “if/then” statement. Fill in the blanks from 7:3:
7:3–17.
“If you are to the
with , then...”
List every action Samuel calls the people of Israel to take in 7:3–5:
4. Baal and Ashtoreth were Canaanite deities believed to hold

authority over crops, fertility and military strength. Why do you
think God’s covenant people kept foreign gods among them?
Why was it critical that the Israelites rid themselves of

foreign gods in order to return to the Lord (7:4)?
5. In the chart, contrast Israel’s battles with

the Philistines in 4:1–11 and 7:3–14.
B AT T L E 1 B AT T L E 2
4:3 7:3, 7:8

Summarize
Israel’s
belief about
their right
to God’s
divine aid.
4:3–5 7:8
What weapon
does Israel
employ?
4:10 7:13
Who is
defeated?
4:11 7:14
What is the
end result?
6. How does Israel’s choice to rely on prayer as their weapon

against the Philistines demonstrate a true heart change (7:8)?
7. Who do you think is responsible for Israel’s victory against the

Philistines? Give evidence from the text to support your answer.
8. The stone that Samuel arranged at Mizpah held an

important purpose and significance (7:12).

What was the name of the stone?
What does the name mean?
“Till now has

.”
What was the stone’s purpose? Compare

Joshua 4:1–9 to help with your answer.
9. What is the main idea in 7:13–17? Based on these verses,

list several adjectives you would use to describe:

God
Samuel
Israel

▼ A P P LY
The fruit of victory
meant restoration,
deliverance and peace
for the people of God.
Read the lyrics to
“Come Thou Fount
of Every Blessing.”
What are the
“Ebenezers” in
your own life that
remind you of God’s
past faithfulness?
Note them here.
com e thou fou n t
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing Here I raise my Ebenezer

Tune my heart to sing Thy grace Here by Thy great help I’ve come
Streams of mercy, never ceasing And I hope, by Thy good pleasure
Call for songs of loudest praise Safely to arrive at home
Teach me some melodious sonnet Jesus sought me when a stranger
Sung by flaming tongues above Wandering from the fold of God
Praise the mount, I’m fixed upon it He, to rescue me from danger
Mount of Thy redeeming love Interposed His precious blood
What circumstance or
sin pattern challenges
your belief in God’s
faithfulness today?
How do your
“Ebenezers” spur you
toward perseverance?
List two specific ways.
⊲ EXPLORE 10. What action does Samuel take in 8:1?

Now shift
your focus
to 1 Samuel What is the outcome (8:3)?
8:1–22.
Look at Judges 2:16. How were Israel’s judges appointed

in the past? Did Samuel follow this precedent?
11. What reasons do the elders of Israel give to Samuel

to explain their desire for a king (8:4–5)?
How does Samuel respond (8:6)?
Paraphrase how God responds in 8:7–9 in one sentence:
12. Do you think it was wrong for Israel to request a

king? Why or why not? Compare God’s response with
Deuteronomy 17:14–20 to help you with your answer.
13. A monarchy would undoubtedly mean change for the lives

of the Israelites. Fill in the chart, noting all that Israel stood
to gain and lose by having an earthly king (8:10–18).
GAIN LOSE
14. What is the desire revealed in 8:20 underlying

Israel’s request for an earthly king?
“... that we also may be like the

, and that our king may
judge us and go out before us and fight our battles.”
How does this response follow the pattern

of their earlier thinking in 4:3–5?
15. Why do you think God allows Israel to have an earthly

king despite the suffering it will bring (8:21–22)?
▼ A P P LY
Look up Leviticus
20:26 and write it
here. Despite being
a nation called and
set apart for God,
Israel wanted to be
like other nations.
Think about your
relationship to things
like money, property,
entertainment, family
members, peers,
activities and so on.
In what ways are you
guilty of trying to be
like the world around
you rather than set
apart for God? In
what practical ways
could you live so as
to demonstrate your
citizenship in heaven?
⊲ EXPLORE 16. How does the text describe Saul in 9:1–2? Why do
Now look at you think the author emphasizes these particular
1 Samuel familial connections and characteristics?
9:1–27.
17. Fill in the chart below, giving a brief description to each of

the three specific events that led Saul to meet Samuel:
9:3–4
9:5–10
9:11–14
18. Scan 9:15–17. What are the two purposes

God says Saul will accomplish?
9:16
9:17 (compare in the NIV)

19. Look up the word “seer” in a dictionary. In your own words, write
a definition below that best fits the way it’s used in the text.
seer (noun):
How is “seer” an appropriate synonym for “prophet”?
20. What message does Samuel the seer reveal to

Saul? How does Saul respond (9:19–21)?
21. Samuel arranges a significant meal for Saul (9:22–

24). Look up Leviticus 7:32–33 and note what it
adds to your understanding of the menu:
▼ A P P LY
God orchestrates a
series of “ordinary”
events that lead
Saul to Samuel, who
charges him with
his critical role in
Israel’s future. Look
up Proverbs 16:9
and write it here.
How have you seen
the providence of God
unfold in your own
story? What are some
examples of ways
He has orchestrated
events to move you
into the good work
He prepared for you?
⊲ EXPLORE 22. Samuel privately anoints Saul as king over

Now look at Israel and then prophesies over him. What are
1 Samuel the three events he says will take place?
10:1–27.
10:1–2
10:3–4
10:5–7
23. Compare 10:9 in the ESV, NET and NIV. Write

the verse in your own words:
24. What happens to Saul in 10:9 that highlights

the change he experiences?
How do the people respond (10:10–12)? To understand

the sense of their words, compare Mark 6:1–4.
How does your answer above help explain why Saul

withholds specific information from his uncle (10:14–16)?
25. Note the contrast between the personal pronouns in

10:18 and 10:19. What is being communicated?
If God is appointing Saul as king, why do you think He

begins the formal process on such a negative note?
26. If God had already confirmed Saul as His choice,

why do you think Samuel walked Israel through
the process of casting lots (10:20–24)?
27. In 10:26–27, what principle do the contrasting

responses of the two groups of men illustrate? Compare
Romans 13:1–2 to help with your answer.
28. Compare Saul’s behavior in 9:21, 10:16 and 10:21.
Place a ✓ by the word(s) that describe Saul’s

response to the Lord’s divine call on his life:
☐ Humility
☐ Self-pity
☐ Fear
☐ Embarrassment
▼ A P P LY At home?
Saul was chosen by
God for a specific
purpose, yet he lacked
confidence in his
calling. In what sphere
of your life do you
doubt God’s ability to
use you? How would
walking in a greater
confidence in God
affect your ability
to minister in each
of the areas noted? In the church?
In your community?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
60
5
Saul’s
Victory and
Unfaithfulness
1 Samuel 11–13
Last week, we saw Israel’s demand for a king despite

the warning of God’s righteous servant, Samuel. God
granted their request and gave them Saul, a man
who met all the exterior qualifications of a king. But
what kind of king will he be? Will he represent the
character and heart of God to the people? Will the
people follow him? These next few chapters begin to
answer these questions as we get our first glimpse of
King Saul. We will see him lead a mighty deliverance
but also witness early signs of the consequences that
come with being a man after man’s own heart.
W E E K F I V E Saul’s Victory and Unfaithfulness 61

1 Samuel
11–13 Chapter 11:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 12:
Chapter 13:
2. This week, the picture of Saul as Israel’s first king continues

to develop. As you read through each chapter, list words
or phrases used to describe Saul and his actions.
⊲ EXPLORE 3. Chapter 11 opens with a neighboring nation easily defeating

Now shift a group of Israelites. What does this scene indicate about
your focus the plight of Israel at the time Saul became king?
to 1 Samuel
11:1–15.
62 W E E K F I V E Saul’s Victory and Unfaithfulness
4. What do the men of Jabesh request of Nahash (11:1)?
What treaty condition does Nahash require? Why do you

think it would bring disgrace on all of Israel (11:2)?
What does Nahash allow the men of Jabesh to do

in 11:3? Having already defeated them, what do you
think motivates him to make such an allowance?
5. What happens to Saul immediately after he hears

the news about the men of Jabesh (11:6)? Why do
you think the author mentions this detail?
6. In five words or less, restate the command Saul

gives to the people of Israel in 11:7.
7. Compare 11:13 and 11:2. How are the men in these

verses similar? How are they different?
SIMILARITIES DIFFERENCES
8. Gilgal was the site where Joshua and the people erected the
12 stones of remembrance after crossing the Jordan River
and entering the Promised Land for the first time (Josh.
4:1–24). Why would Samuel choose this site as the place
to make Saul king and “renew the kingdom” (11:14–15)?
9. How has the demeanor of the people changed from 11:4

to 11:15? Compare them and note what you find.
▼ A P P LY
In this short chapter,
the people move from
weeping to rejoicing
because of God’s
deliverance. Read
Psalm 30:11–12. In
what ways has God
brought you from
sorrow to celebration?
Now read Revelation

21:4. In what ways
are you still longing
for God to make
things right?
⊲ EXPLORE 10. List the potential charges Samuel poses

Now look at against himself to the people in 12:1–3.
1 Samuel
12:1–18. 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Is Samuel guilty of any of these charges? How are

they similar to Samuel’s first speech in 8:10–18?
11. Fill out the chart below, listing the righteous deeds
Samuel says God has done for Israel and their fathers,
along with their respective responses (12:6–7).
GOD’S RIGHTEOUS DEEDS THE PEOPLE’S RESPONSE
12:8 12:9
Israel’s
fathers
12:11 12:12
Israel
12. Compare Israel’s behavior to the behavior of their

fathers. How is it similar? How is it different?
13. Put a ✓ next to the sentence below that best summarizes

the overall message of Samuel’s speech:
☐ The people asked for a king because Samuel had

failed to lead them and represent them to God.
☐ The people asked for a king because God failed to

keep His promises to them as His chosen people.
☐ The people asked for a king because, like their fathers

before them, they did not trust God and believed a human
king would succeed where they believed God had failed.
14. What conditional blessing and corresponding curse does

Samuel present to the people in 12:14–15? Summarize it below:
I F. . . THEN...
blessing
12:14
curse
12:15
15. The wheat harvest began a few months after the rainy season
ended, making thunderstorms extremely rare. What reason
does Samuel give for asking God to send the storm? How
would this sign have supported Samuel’s message (12:17–18)?
▼ A P P LY
The Israelites are
unfaithful to God
partly because they
forget all the “righteous
deeds” He has done
for them. How does
remembering what
God has done for you
help protect you from
sin? What “righteous
deeds” has God done
for you recently?
⊲ EXPLORE 16. In 12:19, what do the people confess and what

Now look at do they ask Samuel to do for them?
1 Samuel
12:19–25.
17. Fill in the chart below with the instructions

Samuel gives the people (12:20–21):
W H AT T H E P E O P L E S H O U L D D O W H AT T H E P E O P L E S H O U L D N O T D O
18. In 12:14, Samuel tells the people to “fear the Lord,”

but in 12:20 he says, “Do not be afraid.” Do you think
these commands conflict? Why or why not?
19. What does Samuel point to as motivation

for the people’s obedience?
12:22
12:24
▼ A P P LY
What “empty things” 1.
most attract you and
2.
distract you from
following the Lord? 3.
List three examples.
God responds to Israel

with astounding grace
and love. Is it hard
for you to believe God
responds to you with
the same grace when
you “turn aside after
empty things”? How
does God’s treatment of
Israel give you greater
confidence of His
love and faithfulness
in your own life?
⊲ EXPLORE 20. What causes the Philistines to go to war against Israel (13:1–4)?
Now look at
1 Samuel
13:1–23.
21. How are the Philistines described (13:5)?
And the Philistines mustered to fight with Israel,

chariots and
horsemen and troops
like the on the
in multitude.
After seeing them, how does Israel respond (13:6–7)?
22. Look at 13:8–15. Summarize what happens in you own words:
23. What do you think motivated Saul to speed up

the offering instead of waiting on Samuel?
24. Circle the word(s) that best describe(s) Saul’s response to Samuel:
Repentance Self-justification
Blame-shifting Humility
25. What are the consequences of Saul’s sin? Why do

you think they are so severe (13:13–14)?
26. Compare 13:2 with 13:15b. What change

has happened to Saul’s army?
27. What alarming comparisons are we given between

Saul’s army and the Philistine army in 13:15b–23?
S A U L’ S A R M Y PHILISTINE ARMY
13:15b 13:5
size
13:16 13:16–18
Location(s)
occupied
13:19–22 13:5
weapons
28. What changes do you see in Saul from chapter 11 to 13?
▼ A P P LY
Saul allowed fear of
his circumstances to
dictate his behavior
instead of fear of the
Lord. In what ways are
you tempted to allow
your circumstances
to outweigh the
voice of God?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
76
6
Saul’s
Downfall
1 Samuel 14–15
Last week, we began to see the flaws in Israel’s new

king, as well as the consequences they would bring.
Israel’s army is diminished and disarmed before the
mighty Philistine forces. Will Saul return to the trust
and virtue he displayed when first commissioned by
Samuel? Can he still be a king after God’s heart to
rightly lead the people? In these next few chapters,
Saul’s rash behavior and misplaced confidence
answer these questions in decisive fashion.
W E E K S I X Saul’s Downfall 77

1 Samuel
14–15 Chapter 14:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 15:
⊲ EXPLORE 2. This week, the picture of Saul as Israel’s first king

Now shift continues to develop. As you read through each chapter,
your focus list words or phrases that describe Saul and his actions:
to 1 Samuel
14:1–23.
3. How does this portion of the narrative connect logically

to what happened in the previous chapter?
4. In 14:3, who is listed with Saul? Look back at 4:12–22 to

refresh your memory on this person’s family connections.
Why do you think the author includes these details?
78 W E E K S I X Saul’s Downfall
5. In 14:6, what mission does Jonathan propose? Fill in the blanks:
“It may be that the will work for us, for

nothing can hinder the from saving by
many or by few.”
What does Jonathan’s statement indicate about his view of God?
6. Before he attacks the Philistines, Jonathan waits for a sign

from God. In your own words, describe the sign (14:8–10).
7. What is the outcome of Jonathan’s mission (14:11–15)?

8. In 14:18, Saul asks Ahijah to bring the ark so he can discern
if the Lord wants him to join Jonathan’s attack against
the Philistines. Put a ✓ by the phrase(s) below that best
describe(s) the reason for his change of mind in 14:19.
☐ He was being impatient.

☐ He was being strategic.
☐ He was being anxious.
☐ He was being self-reliant.
☐ He was trusting in God.
Where in Scripture have we seen this kind

of behavior from Saul before?
9. What interesting detail do we learn in 14:21 about some

of those who had sided with the Philistines? What insight
does this give you into the state of Israel’s health?
10. Who receives credit for Israel’s victory (14:23)? How do you
reconcile this statement with Saul’s actions in 14:16–20?

▼ A P P LY
In what areas of your
life are you prone to
impatience with God
and acting on your
own wisdom? What
is one change you can
make this week to live
more like Jonathan
and less like Saul,
patiently waiting on
the Lord as He leads
you by His voice?
⊲ EXPLORE 11. Compare 14:24 in both the ESV and NIV.

Now look at Why are the men “hard pressed”?
1 Samuel
14:24–52.
What does the people’s unquestioning obedience

to Saul’s command indicate about their
regard for his authority (14:24–26)?
12. What is Jonathan’s assessment of his father’s vow

(14:29–30)? How does it show wisdom?
13. After defeating the Philistines, what does Israel’s

hunger drive the soldiers to do (14:32)?
Why does Saul respond by building an

altar (see Lev. 3:17; 7:26–27)?
14. What causes Saul to believe the people had sinned (14:36–37)?
15. The Urim and Thummim were part of the high priest’s ephod
(linen garment). They were two stones used for casting lots
to determine the will of God. Saul uses them in 14:40–42.
Considering his sinful sacrifice and makeshift high priest in
chapter 13 and his vow and his trial of Jonathan in chapter 14,
how would you describe Saul’s ability to discern God’s will?
16. What reason do the people give to ransom Jonathan (14:45)?
17. The closing verses of chapter 14 tell us a number of

specific details for very specific reasons. In the chart
below, summarize each detail and give your best
answer as to why it is included for our benefit:
W H AT I S D E TA I L E D WHY WE NEED TO KNOW IT
14:47–48
14:49–51
14:52
▼ A P P LY
Saul’s fear and pride
result in rash words
and actions that harm
his people and almost
cause the death of his
own son. What fears
are most likely to cloud
your judgment in key
decisions? How has
pride led you to speak
or act rashly?
What lesson can

you take away from
Saul’s example?
⊲ EXPLORE 18. What people does God command Saul to

Now look at devote to destruction in 15:1–3?
1 Samuel
15:1–9.
These people were well-known figures in Israel’s history,
hated for being the first enemy to oppose Israel in battle and
capitalizing on their weakness as they fled from Egypt (Ex.
17:8–16). Read Deuteronomy 25:17–19. What did Moses
emphasize to Israel just before they entered the Promised Land?
How does this background information

shape your understanding of 15:1–3?
19. Skim back through 15:1–35. How many times does

the phrase “devote to destruction” appear?
List everything God commanded Saul to destroy

when he attacked the Amalekites (15:3).
and
and
and
and
Welcome to one of the most difficult themes of the Old

Testament. It is difficult to reconcile a loving God with a
command like this one. We will discuss the “why” of the
command further during the teaching time, but for now,
look up Deuteronomy 20:16–18 and note what you learn.
20. Though our eyes are drawn toward the drama of the
command itself, the text focuses on obedience. Using the
list from question 19, note the commands that Saul and
the people fulfill in verses 15:7–9. How do their actions
compare with God’s original command in 15:3?
SIMILARITIES DIFFERENCES
21. Why do you think Saul and the people spare

Agag and the best of the animals (15:9)?
▼ A P P LY
God gives Saul very
specific instructions,
which Saul responds
to with partial
obedience. Why is
partial obedience
such an offense
against God?
In what area of your

life are you prone to
listen selectively to
the words of God?
⊲ EXPLORE 22. What does God say in response to Saul’s actions (15:11)?
Now look at
1 Samuel “I that I have made Saul ...”
15:10–35.
We will discuss this in the teaching, but for now,
if God never changes, what do you think it means
for God to “regret”? Give your best answer.
23. List below a few words that describe Saul’s initial response to
Samuel in 15:13. What do you think Saul believes about his
actions? Give evidence from the text to support your answer.
24. In the space below, rewrite the dialogue between Samuel and
Saul in 15:14–21 in your own words. Try to capture what you
believe to be the tone of the dialogue in your paraphrase.
Samuel (15:14)
Saul (15:15)
Samuel (15:16–19)
Saul (15:20–21)
25. Fill in the blanks from 15:22:
“Behold, to is better
than ...”
How do you think Saul’s actions would have

differed if he had believed this truth?
26. In 15:24–31, do you think Saul responds

with repentance? Why or why not?
27. Why do you think Samuel kills Agag? Why with such
violence versus a quick and clean death (15:32–33)?
28. In 15:34, we are told the destinations of both

Samuel and Saul. Who goes where?
Locate these two towns on the map in Appendix A .

How far apart are they? How does this geographical
detail shape your reading of 15:35?
▼ A P P LY
When confronted
about his sin, Saul
does not repent.
He fails to take
responsibility for his
actions. How do you
respond to loving
confrontation? Who
in your life have
you invited to hold
you accountable to
walk in holiness?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
92
7
A New King
1 Samuel 16–19
Despite the disobedience we saw from Saul

in last week’s lesson, Samuel rightly grieves
the king’s downfall. He understands the
stakes. Still, God immediately commissions
the prophet to anoint the next king of Israel,
this time one of His own choosing. In these
chapters, we will see simultaneously Saul’s
demise and David’s rise to the throne.
W E E K S E V E N A New King 93

1 Samuel
16–19 Chapter 16:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 17:
Chapter 18:
Chapter 19:
2. Deliverance is a major theme in these chapters. Write

below the definition for God as “Deliverer” from
Appendix B in the back of your workbook.
94 W E E K S E V E N A New King
⊲ EXPLORE 3. Why does God send Samuel to Jesse the Bethlehemite (16:1)?
Now shift
your focus
to 1 Samuel
16:1–13.
4. What would motivate Saul to kill Samuel if he

heard about him going to meet Jesse? How does
God respond to Samuel’s concerns (16:2–3)?
5. Why do you think the elders are afraid of

Samuel when he arrives (16:4)?
6. Look back at 9:2 and 10:23–24 and note the

similarities between Eliab and Saul (16:7).
Why does the Lord reject Eliab? Fill in the wording below:
“For the Lord sees not as sees: man looks on

the ,
but the Lord looks on the .”

What statement does the Lord repeat as Jesse’s first seven

sons pass before Him? Why not just say, “Not him”?
7. What happens to David immediately after he is

anointed (16:13)? How is this significant?
▼ A P P LY
Read 1 Corinthians
1:26–29. Describe
a time when you
judged a person based
on their external
appearance only to
find out later they
were not as they
seemed. What did
you learn from that
experience? What
biblical advice would
you give to yourself
in hindsight?
⊲ EXPLORE 8. Look at 16:13–14. Draw a line connecting each name with

Now look at the word that describes the Holy Spirit’s activity in his life.
1 Samuel
16:14–23. David Spirit departed
Saul Spirit rushed upon
9. Which of the following do you think best describes the

“harmful spirit” that tormented Saul? Give your best answer.
☐ A demon doing Satan’s will

☐ The Holy Spirit directly tormenting Saul
☐ A spirit, perhaps demonic, allowed by God’s permission
10. What do Saul’s servants suggest as a solution to his issue (16:16)?
11. List the characteristics used to describe David in 16:18. Put

an “�” next to the ones that most set apart David from Saul.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
12. How does Saul feel about David? Give evidence

from the text for your response.
13. God uses the newly anointed king to bring comfort to the
newly rejected king (16:23). Why do you think He does this?
▼ A P P LY
God places David
into a position of
trust and affection
with a man who will
soon become his most
dangerous adversary.
David will dwell for
only a brief time in
the house of Saul.
Reflect on the familiar
words of David in
Psalm 23:5–6. How
have you experienced
the Lord work in
similar ways through
a relationship that
started in friendship
and ended in enmity?
How do David’s
words from Psalm
23 offer comfort?
⊲ EXPLORE 14. What details do we learn about Goliath’s appearance

Now look at and armor? List them below (17:4–7).
1 Samuel 17.
In 17:8–11, what message does Goliath shout out

to Israel? Summarize it in your own words.
“For who is this

Philistine, that he should defy the armies of
the God?”
What do you think David wants to communicate by using

these two adjectives? Note the tone of his statement.
16. Why is David confident in God’s ability to

deliver him from Goliath (17:34–37)?
17. In 17:45–47, David delivers a powerful message to Goliath.

Read it out loud and then fill in the blanks below:
In whose name does David come?
Who will deliver Goliath into the hand of David?
Who doesn’t “save with sword or spear”?
Whose battle is it?
Goliath ridicules the God of Israel, but it is God

who defeats him using only a slingshot and a stone.
What principle does this story emphasize? Look at
2 Corinthians 12:9–10 to help with your answer.
18. Since Saul first met David in 16:19–23, why do you think
Saul asks him about his father in 17:58? We will discuss
this in the teaching, but give your best answer.
▼ A P P LY
Is there a situation in
your life where God’s
honor is at stake?
What are you willing
to risk to defend it?
⊲ EXPLORE 19. List the items that Jonathan gives to David in 18:4.
Now look at What do you think Jonathan’s gift symbolizes?
1 Samuel
18–19. 1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
20. Saul tries and fails to kill David on two separate

occasions. What does he do next to try and bring
about his death? Why? (18:13; see also 18:17b)
21. What happens to David in his new role?

Fill in the blanks from 18:14:
And David had in

all his undertakings, for the
.
Skim 18:1–27. What repeated emotion does Saul

experience at hearing of David’s success?
22. Summarize all that David is required to do before he

can marry Saul’s second daughter, Michal (18:20–27).
Why did Saul make the process so difficult?
23. In 19:4–5, Jonathan boldly calls out his father’s sinful

actions. What is ironic about his statement? Read these
two verses again, substituting Jonathan’s name in place of
David’s to help with your answer. Then compare 14:45.
24. In 19:1–24, Saul tries to kill David four times, and each
time David escapes. Fill in the chart by summarizing
the main points of each nearly fatal encounter:
HOW DOES SAUL HOW DOES

TRY TO KILL DAVID? DAVID E SCAPE?
19:1–7
19:8–10
19:11–17
19:18–24
25. What does Michal mean by her response to Saul’s question in

19:17? Read this verse in the NET to help with your answer.
26. We will discuss this during the teaching time, but what do
you think it means when the author describes Saul and his
messengers “prophesying” in 19:20–24? Give your best answer.
27. What does Saul remove in 19:24? Why is this significant?

Look at 15:27 and 18:4 to help you with your answer.
▼ A P P LY
If you are a child
of God, He is with
you just like He was
with David. Do you
think people in your
life know this to be
true about you? Are
you living in a way
that acknowledges
God’s work in
your life? What
are some concrete
examples people
could point to?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
108
8
David’s
First Flight
1 Samuel 20–24
The relationship between Jonathan and David is

as much about covenant as it is about friendship.
Jonathan demonstrates sacrificial commitment
because of his faith in the Lord. He knows David
will be king and he wants to play a part in what
God is doing. Similar to David, Jonathan also
gives us a picture of Christ. In contrast, Saul gives
us a picture of rebellion against God’s grace.
He is all that we were and would continue to be
apart from redemption. Saul continues to pursue
David, but the Lord governs every movement.
W E E K E I G H T David’s First Flight 109

1 Samuel Note: Because so much transpires, it may be helpful to ask
20–24 yourself, “What do I see God doing in this section of Scripture?”
from start
to finish. Chapter 20:
Chapter 21:
Chapter 22:
Chapter 23:
Chapter 24:
110 W E E K E I G H T David’s First Flight
⊲ EXPLORE 2. Immediately following Saul’s attack, who

Now shift does David seek out and why (20:1)?
your focus to
1 Samuel 20.
3. What do David and Jonathan agree to do to determine

whether or not Saul desires harm (20:5–17)?
4. Fill out the chart by listing the two key phrases Jonathan says
he will use to confirm David’s safety, as well as their meaning:
KEY PHRASE MEANING
20:21
20:22
“For as long as the son of lives on the

earth, neither nor
kingdom shall be .”
Why do you think Saul makes this statement? Does

he mean it as a threat or a statement of fact?
6. Jonathan confirms that Saul desperately wants

David dead. At their parting, why do you think the
author tells us that David wept the most (20:41)?
7. In 20:42, Jonathan tells David to “go in peace,” yet

David is heading to exile in the wilderness. What kind
of peace do you think David will have there?
▼ A P P LY
Read John 16:33
and note what Jesus
teaches about peace
in times of turmoil.
Think about a time
when God gave
you peace during
what felt like exile
in the wilderness.
How did He sustain
you? How did He
calm your fears?
⊲ EXPLORE 8. “Provider” is one of God’s attributes listed in

Now look at Appendix B. List what God provides for David
1 Samuel in each of the following sections:
21–22.
W H AT G O D P R OV I D E S F O R DAV I D
21:1–6
21:7–9
21:10–15
22:1–2
22:3–4
22:5
9. Why do you think Ahimelech is afraid when

David arrives alone on his doorstep (21:1)?
10. Why do you think David lies about his reason for coming?
How might his lie have served to protect Ahimelech (21:2)?
11. Eating the consecrated bread meant that David could

be condemned as a lawbreaker. Compare Matthew
12:1–8. How does Jesus interpret David’s actions?
12. In 21:10, David goes to Achish, the king of Gath.

Look back to 17:4. Who else lived in Gath?
Why do you think David acts like a madman in the

presence of Achish and his servants (21:13)?
13. Who joins David at the cave of Adullam (22:1–2)?

List the three groups:
1.
2.
3.
14. Why does David feel as if he could ask a favor of the king of Moab
(22:3–4)? Read Ruth 1:22 and 4:17 to help with your answer.
15. Who reveals David’s location to Saul (22:9)?
the
Describe the resulting conversation Saul and Ahimelech have in

22:13–14. What does Saul ask? How does Ahimelech respond?
How does Saul respond to the servants’ refusal to kill

the prophets (22:17–18)? Look back at 2:30–33. How
does it shape your understanding of this scene?
16. Why does David offer Abiathar protection in 22:23?
“...for he who my
your .”
What does this reveal about David’s character?

▼ A P P LY
In a variety of rather
unusual ways, God
provides David
with daily bread,
escape, provision
for his family and a
priest to offer divine
direction. Do you feel
like you’re able to
see God’s provision
in your life? Write
a recent example of
God’s provision for
you and share it with
your small group.
⊲ EXPLORE 17. In 23:1–10, what behavior does David

Now look at repeat before taking any action?
1 Samuel 23.
B E H AV I O R O F DAV I D B E F O R E TA K I N G AC T I O N
23:2
23:4
23:10
18. When Abiathar flees to David, what does

he bring with him (23:6)?
Why do you think the author mentions this detail?

Remember our discussion of the Urim and Thummim
and this item during the teaching time in week 6. You can
also look at Exodus 28:1–14 to help with your answer.
19. How big is David’s army now (23:13)?
20. According to 23:16, why does Jonathan visit David?
“To his hand

.”
Specifically, how did Jonathan do this (23:17–18)?

21. While David consults the Lord, who

does Saul consult in 23:19–24?
22. Why was David’s hiding place called the “Rock of Escape”?
How was he delivered from Saul and the Ziphites (23:24–29)?
▼ A P P LY
Like David, we rely
upon God, our Rock
of Escape in times
of trouble. Read
Psalm 54, noting
the heading at the
top. What “rocks
of escape” has God
provided in your life?
⊲ EXPLORE 23. What advantage does Saul inadvertently

Now look at present to David (24:1–3)?
1 Samuel 24.
What do David’s men urge him to do (24:4a)?
24. How does David respond (24:4b)?
Then David arose and cut off a

of Saul’s .
Why is this significant? Look back at 15:27–28

to help you with your answer.
25. What reason does David give for why he is not trying to harm
Saul? How does Saul respond? Summarize their exchange:
DAVID
24:8–15
SAUL
24:16–21
26. In 24:21, Saul asks David to make him a promise.

But to whom has David already made the same
promise? Look back at 20:42 for help.
27. Note the pronouns Saul uses in 24:21 while pleading with David:
“Swear to therefore by the LORD that you will not

cut off offspring after , and that you will
not destroy name out of father’s house.”
What do you think motivates him to request this of David?
▼ A P P LY
Like Saul, we too can
be guilty of striving
to preserve our name
instead of God’s. In
what area of your
life are you tempted
to make a name for
yourself instead of
seeking to exalt God?
What does that look
like practically?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
124
9
David’s
Second and
Third Flights
1 Samuel 25–28
Last week, we saw David exercise tremendous

restraint in his dealings with the king of Israel. This
week, we find him in need of restraint in his dealings
with a local Israelite. God’s chosen king proves he isn’t
perfect, but unlike Saul, who seeks his own power
apart from the Lord, David is attuned to the Word of
the Lord and is quick to submit to its authority. As
David wanders and eventually settles within foreign
territory, God is crafting him for kingship. Just as
David’s character matures, Saul’s disintegrates, despite
entering the story with great stature and strength.
W E E K N I N E David’s Second and Third Flights 125

1 Samuel
25–28 Chapter 25:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 26:
Chapter 27:
Chapter 28:
⊲ EXPLORE 2. What significant event opens the chapter? Does

Now shift it offer a sense of closure? Why or why not?
your focus
to 1 Samuel
25:1–44.
126 W E E K N I N E David’s Second and Third Flights
3. In chapter 25, we are introduced to two new

characters. Fill in the chart with the name and
description of each character in 25:3. 
NAME DESCRIPTION
4. What does David send his men to request from Nabal? 
Why does David expect Nabal to fulfill his request (25:7–8, 14–16)?
   
5. Fill in the blanks from 25:11.  
“Shall I take bread and water and

meat that I have killed for shearers and
give it to men who come from I do not know where?”
What does Nabal’s answer to David’s request

expose about Nabal’s character?   
6. Read David’s response (25:12–13) and note the following:
Number of times the word “sword” appears

Number of men David takes with him
What is David determined to do?
Contrast David’s intention with his words and actions in 17:47

and 24:8–13. Do you think that his decision to deal violently
with Nabal is how God expects His chosen king to act?  
7. In 25:18–31, Abigail implements a plan to stop David

from killing Nabal and all the men in Nabal’s household.
Identify the three main parts of her plan:
PART ONE – What does Abigail bring David (25:18, 27)?
PART TWO – What does Abigail warn David against (25:26)?
PART THREE – What does Abigail remind David of (25:28–31)?  

8. Fill in the chart according to the verses listed:  
W H AT WA S DAV I D
W H O R E STR A I N E D DAV I D?
RESTRAINED FROM?
25:26
25:33
25:34
25:39
9. By the end of chapter 25, how many wives does David have?
Is this cause for concern or no big deal? Look at

Deuteronomy 17:16–17 to help with your answer.
▼ A P P LY
God’s intervention
saved David from
acting in sinful
vengeance. Like
David, are you quick
to praise God for
restraining you from
doing wrong? What
are some of the ways
God has intervened
in your life to keep
you from sin?
⊲ EXPLORE 10. Once again, David is pursued by Saul. But a new helper
Now look at enters the scene, Abishai the son of Zeruiah. When David
1 Samuel and Abishai arrive at Saul’s camp, they both develop a
26:1–25. plan of action. Summarize each man’s plan (26:7–11):
Abishai
David    
11. In 26:10, what are the three different scenarios

David imagines for Saul’s death?
What lesson has David learned from the outcome

of his run-in with Nabal (25:36–39)?   
 
12. David takes Saul’s spear as proof that he was in his
pursuer’s camp. The spear is also a symbol of something
else. Look up 18:10–11, 20:33 and 22:6 and give your
best guess as to what Saul’s spear symbolizes.  
 
13. This story should feel very familiar. Match the major elements
of the first time David spares Saul’s life in chapters 23–24
to the correct reference in chapter 26’s account:
26:18–20 The Ziphites tip off Saul to David’s location (23:19–20)

26:1 Saul is vulnerable (24:3)
26:22–24 David’s men urge him to strike (24:4)
26:8 David acquires a symbolic object (24:4b)
26:11 David refuses to harm Saul, the Lord’s anointed (24:5–6)
26:9–11 David pleads his case to Saul (24:8–15)
26:17 Saul inquires, “Is this your voice my son David?” (24:16)
26:25b Saul is penitent (24:17–18)
26:25 David responds (24:21–22)
26:21 Saul speaks a blessing over David (24:19–20)
26:7 David and Saul part ways (24:22)
Why do you think both stories are included

in the narrative, instead of just one? 
14. Considering Saul’s previous confession in chapter 24, does David

have a reason to trust Saul to keep to his word this time around?
Who does David choose to trust instead (26:23–24)?  
▼ A P P LY
David was only given
a small picture of how
God would deal with
Saul and bring about
his own kingship. He
did not know how
God would fulfill
His promises but he
did know he was not
supposed to kill Saul
himself. In what areas
of your life is God
asking you to exercise
trust in His unknown
ways and also to
exercise obedience
to His explicit
commands?  Write
a prayer for the
Spirit’s help in both
trusting God with
what you don’t know
and obeying Him
in what you do.
⊲ EXPLORE 15. Fill in the blanks from 27:1:

Now look at
1 Samuel Then David in , “Now
27:1–28:2. I shall perish one day by the hand of Saul. There is
for me than that
I should escape to the land of the Philistines. Then
Saul will despair of seeking me any longer within the
borders of Israel, and I shall escape out of his hand.”
Now look up Psalm 42:5 and contrast it with David’s

words in 27:1. Which approach to processing the
legitimate concerns of life is worthy of emulation?     
16. While David is in Philistia, he conducts raids in the

surrounding areas. Fill in the chart below with the
three areas David actually raids and then fill in the
three he reports to Achish that he raids (27:8–10):
ACTUAL RAIDS REPORTED RAIDS

of israel of israel

☐ Look up Exodus 17:8–16. Having read about the Amalekites, are

the people that David actually raids historically friends of Israel
or enemies of Israel? Write your answer in the blank on the chart. 
☐ Look up 1 Samuel 18:16. Having read about Judah, are

the people that David deceptively reports to Achish
that he has raided friends of Israel or enemies of Israel?
Write your answer in the blank on the chart.  
17. This isn’t the first time we have seen Achish, the king of
Gath. From his previous interactions, David has reason
to believe he can successfully dupe Achish (21:10–15).
What is it that David wants Achish to believe?
Is David right in his assessment of King Achish (27:12)?    
18. David’s ruse may have been too convincing.

What predicament does David find himself in
after having won Achish’s trust (28:1–2)?   
▼ A P P LY
The story we tell
ourselves influences our
behavior and choices.
Are you in the habit
of the psalmist who
reminded himself to
“hope in God” in the
face of worry, anxiety
and uncertainty? Or
are you more like David
in this chapter, prone
to reminding yourself
of your fears instead
of God’s faithfulness?
What is one specific
area where you are
speaking things to your
heart that undermine
your confidence in
God? How might you
change the mantras
of your mind to
remind yourself of
God’s faithfulness?
⊲ EXPLORE 19. In one sentence, summarize the event that triggers Saul’s
Now look at state of terror and his first attempt at finding help (28:4–6):
1 Samuel
28:3–25.
What is Saul’s alternate plan (28:7–11)?   

20. When Samuel appears, how does the woman react (28:12)?
Is her reaction surprising? How might you have

expected an experienced medium to react? What reason
might she have for reacting the way she does?
    
21. Fill in the blanks from 28:15–16: 
Then Samuel said to Saul, “Why have you disturbed me

by bringing me up?” Saul answered, “I am in great
distress, for the Philistines are warring against me, and
has turned
and answers me no more, either by prophets or
by dreams. Therefore I have summoned you to tell me
what I shall do.” And Samuel said, “Why then do you
ask me, since the has turned from you
and your ?”   
 
Think back to where we left David in 28:1–2. Who is in a

worse predicament, Saul or David? Explain your answer.
22. Samuel’s response to Saul reiterates the declaration

he already made in 15:26–29. In comparing the two
accounts, what new detail does Samuel reveal in 28:17?
What new information does Samuel give Saul about

the impending battle with the Philistines (28:19)?    
23. How does Saul handle all of Samuel’s news? Contrast the picture
of Saul in 28:20–24 with the first description of him in 9:2.   
 
24. Look back over chapters 25–28. In the chart below, note
the ways you see God proving that, regardless of who
rules, ultimately He is the sovereign King over Israel: 
EX AMPLES OF GOD’S SOVEREIGN RULE
Chapter 25
Chapter 26
Chapter 27
Chapter 28
▼ A P P LY
Saul’s desire for
authority and power
defined his kingship
and kept him from
submitting to the
ultimate authority
of God. How do you
react to the idea of
submitting to the
ultimate authority
of God? What keeps
you from recognizing
God’s authority
as something to be
enjoyed and embraced
versus something to be
resented and resisted?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
142
10
David, the
Philistines and
the Amalekites
1 Samuel 29–31
The closing chapters of 1 Samuel reveal a final contrast
between Saul and David. Saul has been spiraling down to
his own demise, displaying a life marked by self-sufficiency
and a refusal to accept God as the ultimate King over
Israel. Now David, while not perfect, demonstrates again
his reliance on and acceptance of God as the source of his
royal authority and direction. David tastes the sweetness of
victory over his enemies and Saul the bitterness of death.
As we watch Israel’s first monarch fall to his enemies, just
as God promised he would, we aren’t left without hope.
God has promised that He brings low but also exalts, and
all eyes turn to the one God has named to rule over Israel.
W E E K T E N David, the Philistines and the Amalekites 143

1 Samuel
29–31 Chapter 29:
from start
to finish.
Chapter 30:
Chapter 31:
2. In these chapters, how does God work quietly

behind the scenes to bring about His purposes?
Why do you think God sometimes cloaks His

sovereign hand in the mundane and unexpected
instead of the obvious and exciting?   
144 W E E K T E N David, the Philistines and the Amalekites
⊲ EXPLORE 3. When we last saw him in the narrative, David had been
Now shift commissioned by Achish to be a part of his army, even his own
your focus bodyguard, against David’s own people (28:1–2). In the opening
to 1 Samuel lines of chapter 29, what do we find David doing (29:1–2)?
29:1–11. At this point, is there a clear way out of his predicament?      
Imagine yourself in David’s position, among the

ranks of the Philistines on the way to battle with
Israel. What might he be feeling and thinking?
4. Who notices David and his men among the Philistine

ranks (29:3)? What tone do you think the author
intends for you to hear in their question?  
5. Below is a list of descriptions given for David in

29:3–9. Based on your understanding of the story
thus far, mark each one True or False:

the servant of Saul
a deserter to Achish
faultless in his loyalty to Achish
worships a God who demands the defeat of the Philistines
on the side of Israel
sung of as mighty in war against the Philistines
honest with Achish
on the side of the Philistines
blameless as an angel of God before Achish
Do you think it is easy or difficult to determine a clear

verdict on David’s motives and loyalties in chapter 29?
 
6. What emotion do you think David feels when Achish tells

him he cannot fight alongside the Philistine army?
What risk would he have run by agreeing to

follow Achish’s directions too quickly?
7. In your opinion, should David have formed an

alliance with the Philistines? Why or why not?  
▼ A P P LY
David is freed from
a terrible moral
dilemma (of his own
creation) through
the intervention
of the Philistine
commanders and the
gullibility of Achish.
Describe a time when
you saw God work
invisibly through
the words or actions
of His adversaries
for the good of His
children, whether
or not His children
deserved such favor.
⊲ EXPLORE 8. How long had David and his men been traveling
Now look at when they returned home to Ziklag (30:1)?
1 Samuel
30:1–15.
Imagine how those men felt and what they were
looking forward to upon arriving home. Contrast that
with what they find when they arrive (30:1–3):
9. Who is responsible for the violence and destruction

in Ziklag (30:1)? Why is this significant? Glance
back at chapter 15 to help with your answer.
10. Compare the wartime actions of the Amalekites in

Ziklag (30:2–3) with those of David (27:9). How does
God work invisibly to protect David and his family?
11. How much strength do David and his men have left after
mourning the capture of their wives and families (30:4)?    
In addition to the great loss his people have suffered

at the hands of the Amalekites, what personal reason
does David have for being distressed (30:6)?   
 
12. Where does David turn in his distress (30:6)?
But David himself

in the his .
Look back at 27:1. Where did David turn

the last time he was in despair?
How is his reaction to his current hardship an improvement?   

 
13. David’s general statement about gathering strength from

the Lord becomes specific, concrete action in 30:7–8.
How does his resolve translate into “next steps”?
   
14. The Amalekites were nomadic raiders without a permanent

settlement. They could have headed off in any direction at
any time. Answer each question by checking “yes” or “no.” 
☐ Yes ☐ No Is there any indication in verses

30:1–8 of where the Amalekites were
going after they raided Ziklag?
☐ Yes ☐ No Does God direct David to

go find them (30:8)?
☐ Yes ☐ No Does David obey God’s

direction (30:9)?
In light of your answers, what “spiritual muscle” does David

employ when he sets out to find the Amalekites (30:9)?   
15. How important to David’s mission is the slave that he

and his men come upon in the open country (30:11–15)?
How might David have treated him differently?
▼ A P P LY
It is clear from the life of
David that our troubles
don’t cease when we
follow the Lord. While
we aren’t promised a
life without suffering,
we are promised
something else. Look
up Hebrews 4:14–16.
What does the author
of Hebrews tell us we
will find when we, like
David, use our access to
the presence of God and
seek Him in prayer?
When things get

rough, we can rely on
previously developed
spiritual habits to
help see us through.
List some specific ways
you can regularly
practice turning to
the Lord in His Word
and in prayer.    
⊲ EXPLORE 16. When David and his men discover the Amalekites, what do they
Now look at find them doing (30:16)? Were they expecting David and his men?   
1 Samuel
30:16–31.
17. Fill in the blanks from 30:18–19:
David recovered that the Amalekites had taken,

and David rescued his two wives.
, whether small or
great, sons or daughters, spoil or anything that
had been taken. David brought back .
Is there any room to argue that God did not make good on the
promise He made to David when David sought Him in 30:8?    
18. Another dispute breaks out when David and the

400 men who went with him to battle are reunited
with the 200 men who stayed behind. What is the
dispute and who brings it about (30:22)?   
19. What reason does David give to dispute the claims

the “wicked and worthless men” make to all the
spoil they won from the Amalekites (30:23)?    
Look up the following verses and note what mentality

we should have about our possessions:
John 3:27
1 Corinthians 4:7
James 1:17
20. Look up Matthew 20:25–28 and note the similarities

between the words of Jesus to His disciples and
the words of David to his men in 30:23–25.
  
JESUS TO HIS DISCIPLES DAVID TO HIS M E N

Matthew 20:25–28 1 Samuel 30:23–25
▼ A P P LY
David acknowledges
God’s generous
dealings with him by
dealing generously
with others. In what
area of life are you
most prone to believe a
success or a possession
comes from your own
hand instead of God’s?
What generous act can
you perform this week?
   
⊲ EXPLORE 21. The final chapter of 1 Samuel tells us the story of Saul’s death.
Now look at Note how many times each word or idea occurs in 31:1–10.
1 Samuel
31:1–13. “flee” or “fled”
“fell” or “fallen”
“thrust through”
“strip”
“die” or “died”
Circle the word that best describes what kind of

event the author intends for us to see in the final
destruction of Saul and his kingdom:   

celebration tragedy neutral  
22. Of the names of the fallen, which one most signifies the
wastefulness and loss of Saul’s reign as Israel’s king?
23. Answer the questions below to identify the irony

in the circumstances of Saul’s death:
Who was Saul meant to provide

victory against (9:16)?
Who did Saul focus on

pursuing (24:1–2)?
Who caused Saul to take his

own life (31:1)?
24. Saul rejected the Lord as sovereign Ruler over his life,
choosing to recognize himself as the ultimate royal
authority. Turn to Appendix B in your workbook and find
the attribute “just.” Write the definition in the box.
just:
What do you learn about God’s perfect

justice in the demise of Saul?  
25. The final act of 1 Samuel is one of kindness (31:8–13).

Look back at 11:1–11 and note what reason the residents
of Jabesh-gilead have for their brave mission to provide
the fallen King Saul with some final dignity.   
26. Turn again to Hannah’s prayer in 2:1–10. What

hope does she profess (especially in vv. 6–8) that
is demonstrated in Saul’s death in 31:1–13?
How are the promises God made about David

(16:11–13; 28:17) reflected in Hannah’s prayer?   
▼ A P P LY
What can we learn
from the life of Saul?
How does his story
both warn and
encourage us?

attributes on
the last two f
pages of this
workbook
for help
answering
this question.

f
NOTES
160
11
Wrap-Up
1 Samuel
For 11 weeks, you have had the rich blessing of

following the lives of Samuel, Saul and David in
the book of 1 Samuel. Take some time to reflect
on what you will take away from this study.
Set aside time this week to read your chapter
summaries and skim through the entire book.
Pay special attention to what stands out most
in your mind about the reign and rule of God
among His people from these 31 chapters.
W E E K E L E V E N Wrap-Up 161
1. What attribute of God has emerged most

clearly as you have studied 1 Samuel?
  How does knowing this truth about God

change the way you see yourself?
How should knowing this truth change the way you live?
162 W E E K E L E V E N Wrap-Up
2. How has the Holy Spirit used 1 Samuel to convict you of sin?
What thoughts, words or actions has He shown you that
need to be redeemed? What do you need to stop doing?
3. How has the Holy Spirit used 1 Samuel to train you in

righteousness? What disciplines has He given you a
desire to pursue? What do you need to start doing?
4. How has the Holy Spirit used 1 Samuel to encourage you? What
cause to celebrate have these chapters imprinted on your heart?
5. What verse or passage from 1 Samuel stands out most

in your mind after 11 weeks of study? Why?
☐ Close by reading Psalm 5 aloud as a prayer.

164 W E E K E L E V E N Wrap-Up
NOTES
A P P E N D I X A Map 167
Tyre Dan
Hazor
MAP OF ISRAEL
AT T H E T I M E O F 1 S A M U E L
Acco
Lake of
Kedesh Gennesaret
GILEAD
Endor
THE Mt Gilboa
Jezreel ARAMAEANS
G R E AT Jabesh
River Jordan
Gilead
SEA Dothan
Mahanaim
Shechem
Jabbok R.
EPHRAIM
Succoth AMMONITES
Shiloh
Joppa
Ebenezer Bethel Kiriath Jearim
Michmash Rabbath-Ammon
Ashdod Mizpeh
Ramah
Ekron Gibeah Gilgal
Beth Shemesh BENJAMIN
Jerusalem
Gath Bethlehem
Mamre
Hebron
Gaza
Ziklag Ziph
En-Gedi
PHILISTINES
Beersheba
MOABITES
AMALEKITES
Kadesh
Barnea
EDOMITES
Boundary of Edom
Boundary of Kingdom of Saul
Ezeon-geber
168 A P P E N D I X B Attributes of God
Attributes Good: God is what is best

and gives what is best. He is
of God incapable of doing harm.
Holy: God is perfect, pure

and without sin.*
Incomprehensible: God is beyond our

Attentive: God hears and responds understanding. We can comprehend
to the needs of His children. Him in part but not in whole.
Compassionate: God cares for His Infinite: God has no limits in

children and acts on their behalf. His person or on His power.
Creator: God made everything. Immutable/Unchanging: God

He is uncreated.* never changes. He is the same
yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Deliverer: God rescues and
saves His children. Jealous: God will not share His
glory with another. All glory
Eternal: God is not limited by rightfully belongs to Him.
and exists outside of time.
Just: God is fair in all His actions and
Faithful: God always judgments. He cannot over-punish or
keeps His promises. under-punish.
Generous: God gives what is best Loving: God feels and displays
and beyond what is deserved. infinite, unconditional affection
toward His children. His love for
Glorious: God displays His them does not depend on their
greatness and worth.* worth, response or merit.
A P P E N D I X B Attributes of God 169
Merciful: God does not Self-Existent: God depends

give His children the on nothing and no one to
punishment they deserve. give Him life or existence.
Omnipotent/Almighty: God holds Self-Sufficient: God is not

all power. Nothing is too hard vulnerable. He has no needs.
for God. What He wills, He can
accomplish. Sovereign: God does everything
according to His plan and
Omnipresent: God is fully pleasure. He controls all things.
present everywhere.
Transcendent: God is not
Omniscient: God knows like humans. He is infinitely
everything: past, present and higher in being and action.
future; all potential and real
outcomes; all things micro Truthful: Whatever God speaks
and macro. or does is truth and reality.
Patient/Long-Suffering: Wrathful: God hates all

God is untiring and bears unrighteousness.
with His children.
Wise: God knows what is
Provider: God meets the best and acts accordingly. He
needs of His children. cannot choose wrongly.
Refuge: God is a place of Worthy: God deserves all glory

safety and protection and honor and praise.
for His children.*
Righteous: God is always

*Definitions taken from or informed by
good and right. The ABCs of God by Children Desiring God

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First

A King Unlike the Nations

Written by Aina Carruth, Jenni Hamm,

Edited by Collin Huber, Jenna Lusk,

designed by Laura Johns

© 2018 The Village Church

Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible

Select definitions of the attributes of

Week 1 8 Introduction to the Book of 1 Samuel

week 2 10 Opposing the Proud, Exalting the Humble | Ch. 1–3

week 3 26 The Philistines and the Ark | Ch. 4:1–7:2

week 4 42 A King Like the Nations | Ch. 7:3–10:27

week 5 60 Saul’s Victory and Unfaithfulness | Ch. 11–13

week 6 76 Saul’s Downfall | Ch. 14–15

week 7 92 A New King | Ch. 16–19

week 8 108 David’s First Flight | Ch. 20–24

week 9 124 David’s Second and Third Flights | Ch. 25–28

week 11 160 Wrap-Up

Appendix B: Attributes of God

OUR PURPOSE Reading the Bible can be confusing. Because

1 Samuel, 2 Samuel by Dale Ralph Davis;

What does it say? What does it mean?

H OW TO U S E TH I S S TU DY • If you are going through the study on your

How should it change me?

⊲ Consider how what the passage

Imagine yourself receiving a letter in the mail. The envelope is

1. Who wrote the book of 1 Samuel?

2. To whom was it written?

3. When was it written?

4. In what style was it written?

5. What are the central themes of the book?

⊲ READ 1. Summarize what happens in each chapter in 2–3 sentences.

2. Match each major character introduced in these

Next to each character’s name, note a +, - or N depending

⊲ EXPLORE 3. In 1:1, we learn Elkanah’s pedigree and hometown. Though he

From which tribe are Elkanah and Samuel descended? Why

4. The men of Israel were commanded to attend feasts at the

5. Describe the dynamic between Elkanah and his two

6. Why do you think the text paints such a strained

7. What vow does Hannah make to the Lord

What was its purpose?

Was it typically lifelong?

What other men can you think of in the

9. What does Eli mistakenly believe about Hannah when he

10. Note Hannah’s response to Eli’s benediction (1:18).

⊲ EXPLORE 11. According to the law, Elkanah could have nullified

12. It would have been common knowledge to the original audience

14. Having fulfilled her vow to the Lord in great faithfulness,

⊲ EXPLORE 15. When communicating the moral character of its subjects,

16. What tender care does Hannah continue

What other article of clothing does Samuel wear (2:18)?

17. In 2:18–21, we glimpse both what Hannah has

18. In 2:22–25, what does Eli do to address the sins

19. In 2:27–36, Eli receives a message from a “man of God.”

“Thus the ...”

Based on how this phrase is used elsewhere in the Bible, what

20. Summarize the man of God’s message in 2–3 sentences:

21. Though the narrative has focused on the wicked actions

22. In the teaching time, we will look at the immediate

⊲ EXPLORE 23. How does the information in 3:1–3 provide needed

24. In 2–3 sentences, summarize what happens in 3:4–14:

25. Based on the context of the passage, what do you

26. Why do you think the story repeats so much before

27. Summarize God’s message to Samuel in 3:10–14:

Samuel Anointed king of Israel 