1 Samuel 3
BSB1 And the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. Now in those days the word of the LORD was rare and visions were scarce. 2 And at that time Eli, whose eyesight had grown so dim that he could not see, was lying in his room. 3 Before the lamp of God had gone out, Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was located. 4 Then the LORD called to Samuel, and he answered, “Here I am." 5 He ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” “I did not call,” Eli replied. “Go back and lie down.” So he went and lay down. 6 Once again the LORD called, “Samuel!” So Samuel got up, went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” “My son, I did not call,” Eli replied. “Go back and lie down." 7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. 8 Once again, for the third time, the LORD called to Samuel. He got up, went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” Then Eli realized that it was the LORD who was calling the boy. 9 “Go and lie down,” he said to Samuel, “and if He calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10 Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening." 11 Then the LORD said to Samuel, “I am about to do something in Israel at which the ears of all who hear it will tingle. 12 On that day I will carry out against Eli everything I have spoken about his family, from beginning to end. 13 I told him that I would judge his house forever for the iniquity of which he knows, because his sons blasphemed God and he did not restrain them. 14 Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli, ‘The iniquity of Eli’s house shall never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’" 15 Samuel lay down until the morning; then he opened the doors of the house of the LORD. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, 16 but Eli called to him and said, “Samuel, my son.” “Here I am,” answered Samuel. 17 “What was the message He gave you?” Eli asked. “Do not hide it from me. May God punish you, and ever so severely, if you hide from me anything He said to you." 18 So Samuel told him everything and did not hide a thing from him. “He is the LORD,” replied Eli. “Let Him do what is good in His eyes." 19 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground. 20 So all Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the LORD. 21 And the LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, because there He revealed Himself to Samuel by His word.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 3
- 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 3
- Themes from 1 Samuel 3
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 3
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with a description of the spiritual state of Israel, where the word of the Lord was rare and visions were not widespread (1 Samuel 3:1). Eli, the high priest, is old and his sons are corrupt, but Samuel, a young boy serving in the temple, is faithful and obedient. One night, God calls Samuel, but he thinks it is Eli calling him (1 Samuel 3:4-5). After this happens three times, Eli realizes that God is calling Samuel and instructs him on how to respond (1 Samuel 3:8-9). When God calls Samuel again, he responds with obedience and humility, saying, 'Speak, for your servant is listening' (1 Samuel 3:10). God then gives Samuel a message of judgment against Eli's household, which Samuel is hesitant to share with Eli (1 Samuel 3:11-14). However, he eventually tells Eli everything, and Eli accepts the judgment, saying, 'He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes' (1 Samuel 3:18). The chapter concludes with Samuel growing in stature and favor with the Lord and the people, and the Lord appearing again at Shiloh (1 Samuel 3:19-21).
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Samuel, which tells the story of Israel's transition from the period of the judges to the period of the kings. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which speaks of God's relationship with his people and his plan of salvation. As such, it points forward to the coming of Christ, who is the ultimate Prophet, Priest, and King of God's people.
Heart Application
The chapter calls believers to listen to and obey God's voice, just like Samuel. This requires humility, faithfulness, and a willingness to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the importance of seeking God's will and obeying his commands, even when it is difficult or challenging.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about God calling a young boy named Samuel to be a prophet and leader in Israel. Samuel learns to listen to and obey God's voice, and he becomes a powerful instrument of God's will. The chapter teaches us to listen to and obey God's voice, just like Samuel, and to trust in his sovereignty and goodness. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
Voices from the Church
“The call of God to Samuel is a reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their age or background, to accomplish his will.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The chapter teaches us that God's Word is the ultimate authority in our lives, and that we must listen to and obey it if we are to please him.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Samuel's Call (1 Samuel 3:1-5) — The chapter begins by describing the spiritual state of Israel and introducing Samuel, a young boy who will become a great prophet and leader.
- Samuel's Response to God's Call (1 Samuel 3:6-10) — Samuel responds to God's call with humility and obedience, saying, 'Speak, for your servant is listening' (1 Samuel 3:10).
- God's Message to Samuel (1 Samuel 3:11-14) — God gives Samuel a message of judgment against Eli's household, which Samuel is hesitant to share with Eli.
- Samuel's Faithfulness and Obedience (1 Samuel 3:15-18) — Samuel eventually tells Eli everything, and Eli accepts the judgment, saying, 'He is the Lord; let him do what is good in his eyes' (1 Samuel 3:18).
- Conclusion: Samuel's Growth and Ministry (1 Samuel 3:19-21) — The chapter concludes with Samuel growing in stature and favor with the Lord and the people, and the Lord appearing again at Shiloh.
Core Doctrines
- God's Sovereignty
- The chapter teaches us that God is sovereign and can use anyone to accomplish his will. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
- The Importance of Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of listening to and obeying God's voice, just like Samuel. This is a fundamental principle of the Christian life.
- The Role of the Prophet
- The chapter introduces Samuel as a prophet and leader in Israel, who will speak God's words to his people. This is a reminder of the importance of prophetic ministry in the church.
- God's Judgment and Justice
- The chapter also speaks of God's judgment against Eli's household, which is a reminder of God's holiness and justice. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:12-14, God will not tolerate sin and corruption in his people.
Lessons from 1 Samuel 3
- The Importance of Humility — The chapter teaches us that humility is essential for hearing and obeying God's voice. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
- The Power of Obedience — The chapter shows us that obedience to God's voice is powerful and effective. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:19, 'The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of Samuel's words fall to the ground.'
- The Danger of Corruption — The chapter warns us about the dangers of corruption and sin, as seen in the example of Eli's sons. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:12-14, God will not tolerate sin and corruption in his people.
- The Importance of Faithfulness — The chapter teaches us that faithfulness is essential for serving God and accomplishing his will. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign and can use anyone to accomplish his will. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
Themes from 1 Samuel 3
- The Call of God — The chapter introduces the theme of God's call to Samuel, which is a reminder of God's sovereignty and initiative in our lives.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of listening to and obeying God's voice, just like Samuel.
- The Role of the Prophet — The chapter introduces Samuel as a prophet and leader in Israel, who will speak God's words to his people.
- God's Judgment and Justice — The chapter also speaks of God's judgment against Eli's household, which is a reminder of God's holiness and justice.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign and can use anyone to accomplish his will.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the chapter teach us about the importance of listening to and obeying God's voice?
- How does Samuel's response to God's call serve as a model for believers today?
- What does the chapter reveal about God's character and nature?
- How does the chapter point forward to the coming of Christ and the gospel?
- What are some practical ways that we can apply the teachings of this chapter to our own lives and ministries?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Samuel's Call (1 Samuel 3:1-5)
| 3:1 | The chapter begins by describing the spiritual state of Israel, where the word of the Lord was rare and visions were not widespread. |
| 3:2 | Eli, the high priest, is old and his sons are corrupt, but Samuel, a young boy serving in the temple, is faithful and obedient. |
| 3:3 | The lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple, where the ark of God was. |
| 3:4 | Then the Lord called Samuel, and he said, 'Here I am.' |
| 3:5 | And he ran to Eli and said, 'Here I am, for you called me.' But Eli said, 'I did not call; lie down again.' So he went and lay down. |
2. Samuel's Response to God's Call (1 Samuel 3:6-10)
| 3:6 | And the Lord called again, 'Samuel!' And Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, 'Here I am, for you called me.' But Eli said, 'I did not call, my son; lie down again.' |
| 3:7 | Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, and the word of the Lord had not yet been revealed to him. |
| 3:8 | And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, 'Here I am, for you called me.' Then Eli perceived that the Lord was calling the boy. |
| 3:9 | Therefore Eli said to Samuel, 'Go, lie down, and if he calls you, you shall say, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears."' So Samuel went and lay down in his place. |
| 3:10 | And the Lord came and stood, calling as at other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' Then Samuel said, 'Speak, for your servant hears.' |
3. God's Message to Samuel (1 Samuel 3:11-14)
| 3:11 | And the Lord said to Samuel, 'Behold, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears it tingle. |
| 3:12 | On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. |
| 3:13 | And I declare to him that I am about to punish his house forever, for the iniquity that he knew, because his sons were blaspheming God, and he did not restrain them. |
| 3:14 | Therefore I swear to the house of Eli that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be atoned for by sacrifice or offering forever.' |
4. Samuel's Faithfulness and Obedience (1 Samuel 3:15-18)
| 3:15 | Samuel lay down until morning; then he opened the doors of the house of the Lord. And Samuel was afraid to tell the vision to Eli. |
| 3:16 | But Eli called Samuel and said, 'Samuel, my son.' And he said, 'Here I am.' |
| 3:17 | And Eli said, 'What was it that he told you? Do not hide it from me. May God do so to you and more also if you hide anything from me of all that he told you.' |
| 3:18 | So Samuel told him everything and hid nothing from him. And he said, 'It is the Lord. Let him do what seems good to him.' |
5. Conclusion: Samuel's Growth and Ministry (1 Samuel 3:19-21)
| 3:19 | And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fall to the ground. |
| 3:20 | And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established as a prophet of the Lord. |
| 3:21 | And the Lord appeared again at Shiloh, for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the Lord. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 1 Samuel 3?
The main theme of 1 Samuel 3 is the call of God to Samuel, which is a reminder of God's sovereignty and initiative in our lives. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
How does Samuel's response to God's call serve as a model for believers today?
Samuel's response to God's call serves as a model for believers today because it shows us the importance of humility, faithfulness, and obedience to God's voice. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, 'Speak, for your servant is listening.'
What does the chapter teach us about the role of the prophet?
The chapter introduces Samuel as a prophet and leader in Israel, who will speak God's words to his people. This is a reminder of the importance of prophetic ministry in the church.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 3:1 → 1 Kings 18:1 | The rarity of God's word in 1 Samuel 3:1 is similar to the situation in 1 Kings 18:1, where the word of the Lord is rare in Israel. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 3:10 → John 10:27 | The idea of listening to and obeying God's voice in 1 Samuel 3:10 is similar to the idea of hearing and following Christ's voice in John 10:27. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 3:12-14 → Leviticus 10:1-3 | The judgment against Eli's household in 1 Samuel 3:12-14 is similar to the judgment against Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10:1-3. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 3:19 → Acts 3:24 | The idea of God being with Samuel as he grew up in 1 Samuel 3:19 is similar to the idea of God being with the apostles as they preached the gospel in Acts 3:24. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 3:20 → Hebrews 3:7-8 | The idea of Samuel being established as a prophet of the Lord in 1 Samuel 3:20 is similar to the idea of Christ being the ultimate Prophet and Leader of God's people in Hebrews 3:7-8. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 3:21 → Psalm 138:8 | The idea of the Lord appearing again at Shiloh in 1 Samuel 3:21 is similar to the idea of God's presence and help in times of trouble in Psalm 138:8. |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 3:1 → Isaiah 55:6 | The rarity of God's word in 1 Samuel 3:1 is similar to the call to seek the Lord while he may be found in Isaiah 55:6. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 3:10 → Matthew 4:4 | The idea of listening to and obeying God's voice in 1 Samuel 3:10 is similar to the idea of living by every word that comes from the mouth of God in Matthew 4:4. |
Sermons on 1 Samuel 3
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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God Is Training a Holy Remnant by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the scarcity of true men of God who walk with God, seek His face, and speak His word without manipulation or greed. He highlights the need fo |
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The Great Future of Pentecost by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of church meetings and being led by the Holy Spirit. He shares a story about an evangelist who felt a strong conviction not t |
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(1 Corinthians) ch.1:25-2:16 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not relying on human wisdom or cleverness when preaching the word of God. He highlights the need to speak about the things |
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Holy Harmony - Part 2 by Elisabeth Elliot | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the idea that everything in our lives is handed to us by God, who is loving, sovereign, omnipotent, and omniscient. The speaker encourages th |
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Personal Victory for the New Year by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on a verse written by Paul, emphasizing the importance of being watchful as Christians. He highlights that we cannot simply muddle through the |
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A Holy Remnant (Clip) by David Wilkerson | God is quietly preparing a powerful army of dedicated Christians, more devoted than any before, to do exploits and shake hell. This remnant will be made up of ordinary believers wh |
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Cranbrook 1993 Imparting Truth to Hearts Not Just Minds (10-2-93 Am) by George Warnock | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking the truth from God rather than relying on various cults or books. He uses an analogy of a bank teller learning to i |
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Ichabod: The Glory Departed by Bakht Singh | In this sermon transcript, the preacher emphasizes that many preachers today are not delivering God's message but their own opinions and worldly philosophies to entertain people. T |
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(Through the Bible) 1 Samuel 1-10 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the spirit of God coming upon a person's life and anointing them. He highlights the significance of having a heart turned |
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Cranbrook 1993 10-4-93 Am by George Warnock | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following the direction and orders of the captain of the hosts of the Lord. He uses the example of Joshua receiving the blu |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Samuel 3
In this chapter, we see the call of God to Samuel, a young boy who will become a great prophet and leader in Israel. The chapter teaches us about the importance of listening to and obeying God's voice, as well as the role of the prophet in speaking God's words to his people. We also see the judgment against Eli's household, which is a reminder of God's holiness and justice. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The Lord was with Samuel as he grew up, and he let none of his words fall to the ground' (1 Samuel 3:19). This is a reminder of God's sovereignty and initiative in our lives, and the importance of trusting in his goodness and faithfulness. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Rarity of God's Word
The chapter begins by noting that the word of the Lord was rare in those days (1 Samuel 3:1). This emphasizes the spiritual state of Israel and the need for God's revelation and communication with his people.
Samuel's Humility
Samuel's response to God's call, 'Speak, for your servant is listening' (1 Samuel 3:10), is a model of humility and obedience.
Eli's Corruption
The chapter also highlights the corruption of Eli's sons, who were dishonest and immoral (1 Samuel 3:12-14). This serves as a contrast to Samuel's faithfulness and obedience.