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1 Samuel 16

23 verses

TL;DR

God directs Samuel to anoint a new king, revealing David as chosen, while Saul suffers from an evil spirit until David's music calms him.

Summary

In 1 Samuel 16, God commands Samuel to stop mourning Saul and instead anoint a new king from Jesse’s family. Samuel reluctantly goes to Bethlehem, where he initially passes over several sons—Eliab, Abinadab, and Shammah—after God’s instruction that outward appearance is irrelevant. He finally anoints the youngest, David, who possesses a heart that pleases God. After anointing, the Spirit of the Lord comes upon David. Meanwhile Saul’s spirit is tormented, prompting his servants to seek a musician. David, a shepherd, is sent and, by playing the harp, restores Saul’s spirit. This chapter illustrates divine choice versus human perception and the healing power of music.

Outline
  1. God directs Samuel to anoint a new king from Jesse’s line
  2. Samuel rejects the first sons and anoints David
  3. Saul’s torment and David’s calming influence with the harp
Themes
Divine selection versus human judgmentThe power of the Spirit and musicFaithful service and loyalty
Keywords
anointanointedSpirit of the LORDharpevil spiritking
People
SamuelGod (LORD)SaulJesseEliabAbinadabShammahDavid
Places
BethlehemRamahIsrael
Things
horn of oilheiferharpassbreadwine bottlekidSpirit of the LORD
Key Verses
  • 1 Samuel 16:1: God directs Samuel to anoint a new king after rejecting Saul.
  • 1 Samuel 16:7: God’s reminder that He looks on the heart, not outward appearance.
  • 1 Samuel 16:13: The anointing of David, the chosen king.
  • 1 Samuel 16:14: The Spirit departs from Saul, signaling his decline.
  • 1 Samuel 16:23: David’s music heals Saul’s evil spirit.
Questions
  • Why do you think God instructs Samuel to ignore the stature and appearance of Jesse’s sons?
  • In what ways does David’s humble background prepare him for kingship?
  • How does the healing power of music in verse 23 illustrate broader themes in the book of Samuel?
  • What can we learn about leadership from Saul’s experience with the evil spirit?
Sentiment

mixed
Hopeful anointing juxtaposed with Saul’s distress and healing through music.