Way In
13-24 May 2008: 1 Samuel 13-18
The heart of the matter
Referring to the historical sections of the Old Testament, the apostle Paul comments, ‘These things happened … as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the fulfilment of the ages has come’ (1 Corinthians 10:11, NIV). Violent border skirmishes, such as those between Israel and the Philistines that make up the backdrop to the chapters ahead of us, will – thankfully – be unfamiliar to most of us, but the issues of spiritual character, human reaction under pressure and leadership qualities are part of daily life. Through descriptive narrative rather than direct comment, the writer of 1 Samuel provides a ‘warts and all’ exposé of his subjects.
The principal character is Saul. Repeatedly he misses opportunities to show spiritual and moral leadership and is soon set aside as king. We see his reactions, first towards his quick-to-act son Jonathan, then David. Saul grows insanely jealous of both, resulting in further unwise decisions and clouded judgements. Paul, continuing his comment says, ‘So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!’ (1 Corinthians 10:12, NIV). Wise advice, as we reflect on Saul’s slide into self-delusion and self-destruction. In contrast, Jonathan and David both demonstrate how ‘endurance produces character’ (Romans 5:4, NRSV).
The one constant figure in these chapters is God. But he is in the background, not the foreground. He stands ready to guide and empower his servants. While Saul heeds God’s guidance only rarely, Jonathan and David have a near-unqualified trust in God and discover God’s power for God’s work.
May 13: Fear or faith?
1 Samuel 13:23 - 14:14
May 14: A time not to pray?
1 Samuel 14:15-23
May 15: Sanctified common sense
1 Samuel 14:24-35
May 16: From compliance to complaint
1 Samuel 14:36-46
May 17: Pick 'n' mix obedience
1 Samuel 14:36-46
May 18: What's a word?
1 Samuel 15:17-35
May 19: Heart not height
1 Samuel 16:1-13
May 20: Spirit-filled or Spirit-empty?
1 Samuel 16:14-23
May 21: From stand-off to show-down
1 Samuel 17:1-27
May 22: Leaping the hurdles
1 Samuel 17:28-54
May 23: The ratings war
1 Samuel 17:55 - 18:16
May 24: People as pawns
1 Samuel 18:17-30