1 Samuel 26
BSB1 Then the Ziphites came to Saul at Gibeah and said, “Is not David hiding on the hill of Hachilah, opposite Jeshimon?" 2 So Saul, accompanied by three thousand chosen men of Israel, went down to the Wilderness of Ziph to search for David there. 3 Saul camped beside the road at the hill of Hachilah opposite Jeshimon, but David was living in the wilderness. When he realized that Saul had followed him there, 4 David sent out spies to verify that Saul had arrived. 5 Then David set out and went to the place where Saul had camped. He saw the place where Saul and Abner son of Ner, the general of his army, had lain down. Saul was lying inside the inner circle of the camp, with the troops camped around him. 6 And David asked Ahimelech the Hittite and Abishai son of Zeruiah, Joab’s brother, “Who will go down with me to Saul in the camp?” “I will go with you,” answered Abishai. 7 That night David and Abishai came to the troops, and Saul was lying there asleep in the inner circle of the camp, with his spear stuck in the ground by his head. And Abner and the troops were lying around him. 8 Abishai said to David, “Today God has delivered your enemy into your hand. Now, therefore, please let me thrust the spear through him into the ground with one stroke. I will not need to strike him twice!" 9 But David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him, for who can lift a hand against the LORD’s anointed and be guiltless?" 10 David added, “As surely as the LORD lives, the LORD Himself will strike him down; either his day will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. 11 But the LORD forbid that I should stretch out my hand against the LORD’s anointed. Instead, take the spear and water jug by his head, and let us go." 12 So David took the spear and water jug by Saul’s head, and they departed. No one saw them or knew about it, nor did anyone wake up; they all remained asleep, because a deep sleep from the LORD had fallen on them. 13 Then David crossed to the other side and stood atop the mountain at a distance; there was a wide gulf between them. 14 And David shouted to the troops and to Abner son of Ner, “Will you not answer me, Abner?” “Who calls to the king?” Abner replied. 15 So David said to Abner, “You are a man, aren’t you? And who in Israel is your equal? Why then did you not protect your lord the king when one of the people came to destroy him? 16 This thing you have done is not good. As surely as the LORD lives, all of you deserve to die, since you did not protect your lord, the LORD’s anointed. Now look around. Where are the king’s spear and water jug that were by his head?" 17 Then Saul recognized David’s voice and asked, “Is that your voice, David my son?” “It is my voice, my lord and king,” David said. 18 And he continued, “Why is my lord pursuing his servant? What have I done? What evil is in my hand? 19 Now please, may my lord the king hear the words of his servant: If the LORD has stirred you up against me, then may He accept an offering. But if men have done it, may they be cursed in the presence of the LORD! For today they have driven me away from sharing in the inheritance of the LORD, saying, ‘Go, serve other gods.’ 20 So do not let my blood fall to the ground far from the presence of the LORD. For the king of Israel has come out to look for a flea, like one who hunts a partridge in the mountains." 21 Then Saul replied, “I have sinned. Come back, David my son. I will never harm you again, because today you considered my life precious. I have played the fool and have committed a grave error!" 22 “Here is the king’s spear,” David answered. “Let one of the young men come over and get it. 23 May the LORD repay every man for his righteousness and faithfulness. For the LORD delivered you into my hand today, but I would not stretch out my hand against the LORD’s anointed. 24 As surely as I valued your life today, so may the LORD value my life and rescue me from all trouble." 25 Saul said to him, “May you be blessed, David my son. You will accomplish great things and will surely prevail.” So David went on his way, and Saul returned home.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 26
- 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 26
- Themes from 1 Samuel 26
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 26
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with the Ziphites informing Saul that David is hiding in the wilderness of Maon, prompting Saul to pursue him with his army. David and his men are hiding in a cave when Saul enters, unaware of their presence. David's men urge him to kill Saul, but David refuses, instead cutting off a corner of Saul's robe. Later, David confronts Saul, revealing that he had the opportunity to kill him but chose not to, and Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and blesses David. The chapter ends with David and his men departing, and Saul returning to his home.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of David's life, which is recorded in 1 Samuel. The chapter follows David's first opportunity to kill Saul, which is recorded in 1 Samuel 24. The chapter also sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the following chapters, including David's flight to Gath and his time with the Philistines.
Heart Application
This chapter challenges us to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. We are called to wait for God to act, rather than taking matters into our own hands. The chapter also encourages us to demonstrate love and mercy to those around us, just as David spared Saul's life.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of David's second opportunity to kill Saul, but instead, he chooses to spare his life. David trusts in God's sovereignty and timing, and waits for God to act. The chapter encourages us to demonstrate love and mercy to those around us, and to trust in God's plan for our lives. (1 Samuel 26:11)
Voices from the Church
“David's actions in this chapter demonstrate his trust in God's sovereignty and timing. He chose to wait for God to act, rather than taking matters into his own hands.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The chapter highlights the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect. David's actions demonstrate his commitment to following God's will.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Ziphites Inform Saul of David's Location (26:1) — The Ziphites tell Saul that David is hiding in the wilderness of Maon, prompting Saul to pursue him with his army.
- David Spares Saul's Life (26:2-12) — David and his men are hiding in a cave when Saul enters, unaware of their presence. David's men urge him to kill Saul, but David refuses, instead cutting off a corner of Saul's robe.
- David Confronts Saul (26:13-16) — David confronts Saul, revealing that he had the opportunity to kill him but chose not to, and Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and blesses David.
- David and His Men Depart (26:17-20) — David and his men depart, and Saul returns to his home.
- Conclusion (26:21-25) — The chapter concludes with David's words to Saul, emphasizing his commitment to following God's will and trusting in His sovereignty.
Core Doctrines
- God's Sovereignty
- The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and control over all things. David trusts that God will deal with Saul in His own time and way.
- Respect for Authority
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect. David's actions demonstrate his commitment to following God's will.
- Love and Mercy
- The chapter encourages us to demonstrate love and mercy to those around us, just as David spared Saul's life.
- Trust in God's Plan
- The chapter challenges us to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain.
Lessons from 1 Samuel 26
- Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain.
- Respect for Authority — The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect.
- Love and Mercy — The chapter encourages us to demonstrate love and mercy to those around us, just as David spared Saul's life.
- Waiting for God to Act — The chapter challenges us to wait for God to act, rather than taking matters into our own hands.
- Commitment to Following God's Will — The chapter demonstrates David's commitment to following God's will, even when it is difficult or challenging.
Themes from 1 Samuel 26
- God's Sovereignty — The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and control over all things. David trusts that God will deal with Saul in His own time and way.
- Respect for Authority — The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect.
- Love and Mercy — The chapter encourages us to demonstrate love and mercy to those around us, just as David spared Saul's life.
- Trust in God's Plan — The chapter challenges us to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain.
- Commitment to Following God's Will — The chapter demonstrates David's commitment to following God's will, even when it is difficult or challenging.
Questions for Meditation
- What can we learn from David's actions in this chapter about trusting in God's sovereignty and timing?
- How does David's character demonstrate his commitment to following God's will?
- What does the chapter teach us about the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority?
- How can we apply the principles of this chapter to our own lives, particularly in situations where we feel like taking matters into our own hands?
- What does the chapter reveal about God's character and His relationship with His people?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Ziphites Inform Saul of David's Location (26:1-5)
| 26:1 | The Ziphites tell Saul that David is hiding in the wilderness of Maon, prompting Saul to pursue him with his army. |
| 26:2 | Saul takes his army to the wilderness of Maon to search for David. |
2. David Spares Saul's Life (26:6-12)
| 26:6 | David and his men are hiding in a cave when Saul enters, unaware of their presence. |
| 26:7 | David's men urge him to kill Saul, but David refuses, instead cutting off a corner of Saul's robe. |
3. David Confronts Saul (26:13-16)
| 26:13 | David confronts Saul, revealing that he had the opportunity to kill him but chose not to, and Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and blesses David. |
| 26:14 | David asks Saul why he is pursuing him, and Saul acknowledges that he has been foolish. |
4. David and His Men Depart (26:17-20)
| 26:17 | David and his men depart, and Saul returns to his home. |
| 26:18 | David and his men go to the strongholds of En-gedi. |
5. Conclusion (26:21-25)
| 26:21 | Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and blesses David, demonstrating a measure of repentance and humility. |
| 26:22 | David responds to Saul, emphasizing his commitment to following God's will and trusting in His sovereignty. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did David spare Saul's life?
David spared Saul's life because he trusted in God's sovereignty and timing, and he did not want to take matters into his own hands (1 Samuel 26:11).
What does the chapter teach us about respecting authority?
The chapter emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect (1 Samuel 26:6-12).
How does the chapter relate to the larger narrative of 1 Samuel?
The chapter is part of the larger narrative of David's life, which is recorded in 1 Samuel. It follows David's first opportunity to kill Saul, which is recorded in 1 Samuel 24, and sets the stage for the events that will unfold in the following chapters.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 26:11 → Psalm 2:1-2 | Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 26:6-12 → Matthew 5:38-42 | Both passages teach us about the importance of loving our enemies and turning the other cheek. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 26:13-16 → Acts 13:21-22 | Both passages highlight the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 26:17-20 → Psalm 27:1-3 | Both passages emphasize the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing, even in difficult circumstances. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 26:21-25 → Romans 12:14-21 | Both passages teach us about the importance of blessing those who persecute us and trusting in God's sovereignty. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 26:1-5 → 1 Kings 19:1-3 | Both passages highlight the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem difficult or uncertain. |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 26:6-12 → Luke 6:27-36 | Both passages teach us about the importance of loving our enemies and turning the other cheek. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 26:13-16 → Hebrews 13:7 | Both passages emphasize the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority. |
| 9 | 1 Samuel 26:17-20 → Psalm 37:1-7 | Both passages teach us about the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and timing, even in difficult circumstances. |
| 10 | 1 Samuel 26:21-25 → 1 Peter 2:13-17 | Both passages emphasize the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect. |
Sermons on 1 Samuel 26
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
(1 Samuel) Measure for Measure by David Guzik | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of David and Saul from the Bible. He focuses on the scene where David spares Saul's life in the wilderness. The preacher emphasizes |
|
Hunting a Partridge in the Mountains by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher starts by discussing the story of Saul in 1 Samuel chapter 17. Saul is facing a battle that he knows he cannot win, and he is filled with fear and unce |
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The Lord Render to Every Man by Joshua Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in the Christian walk, using examples from the Bible to illustrate the need for trust in God's plans and the avoidance of jeal |
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Proven Character: Responding to Pressure (1 Sam. 26) by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle discusses the theme of proven character in the life of David as he faces repeated tests of faith and integrity, particularly in the wilderness of Ziph where he has anot |
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Then Said Saul, I Have Sinned. by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer explores the distinction between worldly sorrow and godly repentance, using Saul's confession of sin as a primary example. He emphasizes that Saul's acknowledgment of hi |
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The Name 'Christian'. by Elijah Goodwin | Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of the name 'Christian' as the family name of the religious association, derived from 'Christ' meaning 'anointed.' He emphasizes that |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Samuel 26
In this chapter, we see David's trust in God's sovereignty and timing, as he chooses to spare Saul's life despite having the opportunity to kill him. David's actions demonstrate his commitment to following God's will, even when it is difficult or challenging. The chapter also highlights the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, even if they are flawed or imperfect. As Matthew Henry notes, 'David's conduct in this affair is a great example of his piety and his patience.' (1 Samuel 26:11) Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
David's character
David's actions in this chapter demonstrate his character and commitment to following God's will. He chooses to spare Saul's life, despite having the opportunity to kill him.
God's sovereignty
The chapter highlights God's sovereignty and control over all things. David trusts that God will deal with Saul in His own time and way.
Saul's repentance
Saul acknowledges his wrongdoing and blesses David, demonstrating a measure of repentance and humility.