INTRODUCTION TO 1 & 2 SAMUEL

The book of Judges ends with the words, 'In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit.' The books of Samuel describe the transition of Israel from a loose confederation of tribes into a monarchy. Samuel himself was the bridge. He personally opposed the monarchy, for he saw the people's desire for a king as a rejection of God's rule. But he was the king-maker, the man who anointed both Saul who failed, and David who became the model for all the kings who followed him.

God himself raises up shepherds for his people. The key verse is 1Sa 2:30: 'Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.' Who, then, is the leader who can serve God and God's people? 1 Samuel deals with this question with two contrasts: Eli's sons, heirs to the priesthood, were corrupt; Samuel, who obeyed God's word from his youth, replaced them. Then the writer contrasts Saul and David. David is called a man after God's own heart. 1 Samuel is about his training in the wilderness. 2 Samuel is about his life as the shepherd king who founded the monarchy. His kingdom fulfilled prophecy by expanding the borders of Israel to include the land God promised Abraham; it became a symbol of the messianic kingdom of Christ, the descendant of David who would come to restore all things. Thus, God prepared his people to put their hope in the kingdom of God.

1. Elkanah's family (1-8)

The period of the Judges was a time of spiritual famine. Elkanah's family reflects the darkness of the times, as well as the flickering light of faith still burning in the hearts of a few faithful men and women. Elkanah had two wives. Peninnah had children but Hannah was barren. Elkanah loved Hannah and tried to comfort her. His house was full of jealousy and rivalry. But in spite of human problems and a generally low level of spiritual life in the land, this family did their best to worship God according to his law.

2. Hannah's prayer (9-20)

Perhaps if Hannah had had no problem, she might not have prayed so sincerely. But her misery drove her to come in bitterness of soul to weep and pray to the Lord. She made a vow to God. No one in those days prayed fervently, so Eli the priest thought she was drunk. When she explained, he blessed her, confirming her vow. His blessing planted faith in her heart. In time, God gave her a son.

Application: Lord, thank you for a faithful remnant of your people who seek you even in the darkest of times.
One Word: Her face was no longer downcast