1 Samuel 22
BSB1 So David left Gath and took refuge in the cave of Adullam. When his brothers and the rest of his father’s household heard about it, they went down to him there. 2 And all who were distressed or indebted or discontented rallied around him, and he became their leader. About four hundred men were with him. 3 From there David went to Mizpeh of Moab, where he said to the king of Moab, “Please let my father and mother stay with you until I learn what God will do for me." 4 So he left them in the care of the king of Moab, and they stayed with him the whole time David was in the stronghold. 5 Then the prophet Gad said to David, “Do not stay in the stronghold. Depart and go into the land of Judah.” So David left and went to the forest of Hereth. 6 Soon Saul learned that David and his men had been discovered. At that time Saul was in Gibeah, sitting under the tamarisk tree on the hill at Gibeah, with his spear in hand and all his servants standing around him. 7 Then Saul said to his servants, “Listen, men of Benjamin! Is the son of Jesse giving all of you fields and vineyards and making you commanders of thousands or hundreds? 8 Is that why all of you have conspired against me? Not one of you told me that my own son had made a covenant with the son of Jesse. Not one of you has shown concern for me or revealed to me that my son has stirred up my own servant to lie in wait against me, as is the case today." 9 But Doeg the Edomite, who had stationed himself with Saul’s servants, answered: “I saw the son of Jesse come to Ahimelech son of Ahitub at Nob. 10 Ahimelech inquired of the LORD for him and gave him provisions. He also gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine." 11 Then the king sent messengers to summon Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and his father’s whole family, who were priests at Nob. And all of them came to the king. 12 “Listen now, son of Ahitub,” said Saul. “Here I am, my lord,” he replied. 13 And Saul asked him, “Why have you and the son of Jesse conspired against me? You gave him bread and a sword and inquired of God for him so that he could rise up against me to lie in wait, as he is doing today." 14 Ahimelech answered the king, “Who among all your servants is as faithful as David, the king’s son-in-law, the captain of your bodyguard who is honored in your house? 15 Was that day the first time I inquired of God for him? Far be it from me! Let not the king accuse your servant or any of my father’s household, for your servant knew nothing of this whole affair—not in part or in whole." 16 But the king replied, “You will surely die, Ahimelech, you and all your father’s house!" 17 Then the king ordered the guards at his side, “Turn and kill the priests of the LORD, because they too sided with David. For they knew he was fleeing, but they did not tell me.” But the king’s servants would not lift a hand to strike the priests of the LORD. 18 So the king ordered Doeg, “You turn and strike down the priests!” And Doeg the Edomite turned and struck down the priests himself. On that day he killed eighty-five men who wore the linen ephod. 19 He also put to the sword Nob, the city of the priests, with its men and women, children and infants, oxen, donkeys, and sheep. 20 But one of the sons of Ahimelech son of Ahitub escaped. His name was Abiathar, and he fled to David. 21 And Abiathar told David that Saul had killed the priests of the LORD. 22 Then David said to Abiathar, “I knew that Doeg the Edomite was there that day, and that he was sure to tell Saul. I myself am responsible for the lives of everyone in your father’s house. 23 Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks your life is seeking mine as well. You will be safe with me."
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 22
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Samuel 22
- Themes from 1 Samuel 22
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 22
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
1 Samuel 22 describes David's escape from Saul's pursuit and his gathering of a band of loyal followers at the cave of Adullam. David inquires of the Lord through the priest Abiathar, using the ephod to discern God's will. Meanwhile, Saul's paranoia and violence escalate, culminating in the massacre of the priests at Nob. The chapter concludes with David rescuing the city of Keilah from the Philistines, only to flee again when he learns that Saul is coming against him. Key events include David's consultation with the Lord (1 Samuel 22:10), the slaughter of the priests (1 Samuel 22:17-18), and David's military victory at Keilah (1 Samuel 22:10, 1 Samuel 23:1-5).
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of David's rise to power and his conflicts with King Saul. It follows David's escape from Saul's attempts on his life and precedes his establishment as king over Judah. The events described are crucial for understanding David's character, his relationship with God, and the political landscape of Israel at the time. The chapter also connects to the broader biblical themes of faith, perseverance, and God's sovereignty over human affairs.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of persecution or uncertainty. It reminds us that God can use our darkest moments to prepare us for future service and leadership, just as He did with David. By reflecting on David's faith and actions, we can deepen our own trust in God and seek to follow His will in all circumstances.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter of 1 Samuel tells us about David running away from King Saul because Saul wanted to kill him. David went to a cave and many people who were in trouble or owed money joined him. David asked God what to do, and God told him to go save a city from the Philistines. Even though Saul was trying to catch him, David trusted God and was able to rescue the city. This shows us that even when things seem really bad, God is still in control and can use us to do great things if we trust Him, as seen in 1 Samuel 22:10 and 1 Samuel 23:1-5.
Voices from the Church
“ "The child of God is not one who has never fallen, but one who rises again." This truth is beautifully illustrated in David's life as he faces and overcomes numerous challenges.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“ "For it is a token of a noble and generous mind, to be unwilling to avenge oneself, when one has the power to do so." Calvin's comment reflects on the character of David and his restraint in the face of opposition.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- David's Escape and Gathering of Followers (1 Samuel 22:1-2) — David flees to the cave of Adullam, where he is joined by a group of about four hundred men who are in distress, debt, or bitter in soul. This marks the beginning of David's leadership over a band of misfits and outcasts.
- Inquiry of the Lord and Rescue of Keilah (1 Samuel 22:3-10) — David inquires of the Lord through the priest Abiathar, using the ephod to discern God's will. He then rescues the city of Keilah from the Philistines, demonstrating his military prowess and trust in God's guidance.
- Saul's Pursuit and the Slaughter of the Priests (1 Samuel 22:11-19) — Saul discovers David's whereabouts and sets out to capture him. In a fit of rage, Saul orders the slaughter of the priests at Nob, who had inadvertently aided David. This event highlights Saul's increasing paranoia and violence.
- David's Flight from Keilah (1 Samuel 22:20-23:1) — David learns that Saul is coming against him and decides to flee, demonstrating his continued trust in God's sovereignty and his willingness to avoid conflict when possible.
- Conclusion and Transition (1 Samuel 23:1-5) — The chapter concludes with David's military victory at Keilah and his decision to flee to the forest of Hereth, setting the stage for the events of the next chapter.
Core Doctrines
- Providence
- This chapter teaches that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and protecting them even in the midst of danger and uncertainty, as seen in David's trust in God's providence (1 Samuel 22:10).
- Faith and Trust
- David's actions demonstrate the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His will in all circumstances, even when the outcome is uncertain, as illustrated by his inquiry of the Lord (1 Samuel 22:10).
- Leadership
- The chapter highlights principles of godly leadership, including dependence on God, courage in the face of adversity, and care for those under one's charge, as exemplified by David's leadership over his followers.
- Perseverance
- Despite facing numerous challenges and dangers, David perseveres, trusting in God's plan and timing, and ultimately sees victory and vindication, as seen in his rescue of Keilah (1 Samuel 22:10, 1 Samuel 23:1-5).
Lessons from 1 Samuel 22
- Trust in God's Providence — This chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem dire or uncertain. David's example encourages us to seek God's will and trust in His plan.
- Leadership and Loyalty — The events of the chapter highlight the importance of godly leadership and the loyalty that follows when leaders demonstrate faith, courage, and care for their followers.
- Perseverance in Faith — David's perseverance in the face of adversity is a powerful lesson for believers. It reminds us that our trials are not in vain and that God can use them to prepare us for future service and glory.
- God's Heart for the Oppressed — The chapter illustrates God's heart for those who are in distress, debt, or bitter in soul. It reminds us that our ministry and compassion should especially extend to those who are marginalized or oppressed.
- The Dangers of Unchecked Pride and Ambition — Saul's descent into paranoia and violence serves as a warning against the dangers of unchecked pride and ambition, reminding us of the importance of humility and a dependence on God's grace.
Themes from 1 Samuel 22
- Faith and Trust — This theme is central to the chapter, as David's trust in God's providence guides his decisions and actions. It encourages believers to seek God's will and trust in His sovereignty.
- Leadership and Loyalty — The chapter explores the nature of godly leadership and the loyalty that follows. It highlights David's character as a leader and the principles that guided his actions.
- Perseverance and Patience — David's perseverance in the face of adversity is a key theme. It reminds us that our trials are not in vain and that God can use them to prepare us for future service and glory.
- God's Sovereignty — The events of the chapter underscore God's active involvement in the lives of His people. It teaches us to trust in God's plan and timing, even when the outcome is uncertain.
- Redemption and Restoration — The chapter points to the broader themes of redemption and restoration in the biblical narrative. It reminds us that God is always working towards the redemption of His people and the restoration of all things.
Questions for Meditation
- How does David's trust in God's providence influence his decisions and actions in this chapter?
- What does the slaughter of the priests at Nob reveal about Saul's character and the consequences of his actions?
- In what ways does David's leadership over his followers reflect the heart of God for the marginalized and oppressed?
- How does this chapter encourage believers to trust in God's sovereignty, especially in times of uncertainty or persecution?
- What lessons can be learned from David's perseverance and trust in God, and how can these be applied to our own lives?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to David's Flight and Gathering of Followers (1 Samuel 22:1-2)
| 1 Samuel 22:1 | David departed from there and escaped to the cave of Adullam. And when his brothers and all his father's house heard it, they went down there to him. |
| 1 Samuel 22:2 | And everyone who was in distress, and everyone who was in debt, and everyone who was bitter in soul, gathered to him. And he became commander over them. And there were about four hundred men with him. |
2. Inquiry of the Lord and Rescue of Keilah (1 Samuel 22:3-10)
| 1 Samuel 22:3 | And David went from there to Mizpeh of Moab. And he said to the king of Moab, "Please let my father and my mother stay with you, till I know what God will do for me." |
| 1 Samuel 22:10 | Then David inquired of the Lord, "Shall I go and attack these Philistines?" And the Lord said to David, "Go and attack the Philistines and save Keilah." |
3. Saul's Pursuit and the Slaughter of the Priests (1 Samuel 22:11-19)
| 1 Samuel 22:11 | And Saul heard that David was discovered, and the men who were with him. Now Saul was sitting in Gibeah, under the tamarisk tree on the height, with his spear in his hand, and all his servants were standing about him. |
| 1 Samuel 22:17-18 | And the king said to the guards who stood about him, "Turn and kill the priests of the Lord, because their hand also is with David, and they knew that he was fleeing and did not disclose it to me." But the servants of the king would not put out their hand to strike the priests of the Lord. |
4. David's Flight from Keilah (1 Samuel 22:20-23:1)
| 1 Samuel 22:20 | But one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David. |
| 1 Samuel 23:1 | Now they told David, "Behold, the Philistines are fighting against Keilah and are robbing the threshing floors." |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did David go to the cave of Adullam?
David went to the cave of Adullam to escape from King Saul, who was trying to kill him. This is described in 1 Samuel 22:1-2, where David is joined by a group of about four hundred men who are in distress, debt, or bitter in soul.
What was the significance of David's inquiry of the Lord?
David's inquiry of the Lord was significant because it showed his dependence on God's guidance and will. This is seen in 1 Samuel 22:10, where David seeks God's will before rescuing the city of Keilah from the Philistines.
Why did Saul order the slaughter of the priests at Nob?
Saul ordered the slaughter of the priests at Nob because he believed they had aided David in his escape. This event is described in 1 Samuel 22:17-18 and highlights Saul's increasing paranoia and violence.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 22:1 → Psalms 142:1 | David's experience in the cave of Adullam is reflected in Psalm 142, where he cries out to God in distress and trust. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 22:10 → John 5:30 | Jesus' statement about not being able to do anything on His own initiative, but only what He sees the Father doing, parallels David's dependence on God's guidance and will. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 22:17-18 → Matthew 23:35 | The slaughter of the priests at Nob is reminiscent of Jesus' condemnation of the Pharisees for their role in the persecution and killing of the prophets, highlighting the theme of religious persecution. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 22:20 → Hebrews 11:37 | The escape of Abiathar, one of the sons of Ahimelech, and his flight to David, is listed among the examples of faith in Hebrews 11, demonstrating trust in God's sovereignty despite danger. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 22:1-2 → Acts 2:44-47 | The community of believers in Acts, who shared all things in common, reflects the communal aspect of David's band of followers at the cave of Adullam, emphasizing the theme of community and mutual support. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 22:10 → 1 Thessalonians 5:24 | The theme of trusting in God's faithfulness is echoed in 1 Thessalonians 5:24, where believers are encouraged to trust in God's ability to keep them blameless at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 22:17-18 → Revelation 18:24 | The blood of the priests shed by Saul is reminiscent of the blood of the martyrs under the altar in Revelation, crying out for vengeance, highlighting the theme of persecution and martyrdom. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 22:20 → Psalms 57:1 | David's cry to God for mercy and his trust in God's protection, as expressed in Psalm 57, reflect his experience and feelings during his time of flight from Saul. |
| 9 | 1 Samuel 22:1-2 → Isaiah 55:6-7 | The call to seek the Lord while He may be found, as expressed in Isaiah 55:6-7, is illustrated by David's gathering of followers at the cave of Adullam, where they sought refuge and guidance from God. |
| 10 | 1 Samuel 22:10 → Proverbs 3:5-6 | The principle of trusting in the Lord with all one's heart and not leaning on one's own understanding, as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6, is exemplified by David's inquiry of the Lord before rescuing Keilah. |
Sermons on 1 Samuel 22
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
(1 Samuel) God’s Idea of a Team by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of David and the 400 men who gathered around him in distress, debt, and discontentment. He emphasizes that God calls and brings to |
|
David's Flight From Saul by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith encourages believers to take ventures in faith and make themselves available for God's work. He emphasizes the power of one person who is totally |
|
A Lion in a Pit on a Snowy Day by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of David and his men taking refuge in a cave. The speaker expresses a desire to know what exactly happened in that cave and sugges |
|
(How to Understand the Kjv Bible) 35 Psalm 142 by Keith Simons | Keith Simons teaches on Psalm 142, emphasizing David's desperate prayer while hiding in the cave of Adullam from King Saul. He highlights how David cried out to the Lord, expressin |
|
David Overcoming Despair (1 Sam. 22; Ps. 52; Ps. 142) by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle discusses David's journey through despair while hiding in the cave of Adullam, emphasizing the emotional turmoil he faced after the massacre of the priests at Nob due t |
|
In the Lord's Army by Keith Keyser | Keith Keyser preaches on the parallels between the valiant warriors of Special Operations forces in modern armies and David's Mighty Men in Biblical times. He highlights how David |
|
Till I Know What God Will Do for Me. by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer emphasizes the limitless potential of what God can do for us when we fully surrender to Him, using David's incomplete understanding of God's plan as a backdrop. He highl |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Samuel 22
In this chapter, we see David, the man after God's own heart, fleeing from Saul, who is increasingly consumed by jealousy and a desire for power. David's trust in God's providence is a beacon of hope, as he inquires of the Lord and receives guidance for his actions. The slaughter of the priests at Nob by Saul serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked pride and ambition. Meanwhile, David's leadership and the loyalty of his followers demonstrate the power of godly character and the importance of seeking God's will in all circumstances. As we reflect on this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of uncertainty or persecution, and of the need to seek His guidance and will in all that we do. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
David's Faith
David consistently inquires of the Lord, showing his trust in God's providence and sovereignty. This is evident in 1 Samuel 22:10, where he seeks God's will before acting.
Saul's Descent
Saul's actions become increasingly erratic and violent, illustrating the destructive nature of unchecked jealousy and pride, as seen in 1 Samuel 22:17-18.
Leadership and Loyalty
The chapter highlights themes of leadership and loyalty, as David attracts and leads a group of followers, while Saul's leadership deteriorates into tyranny.