College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
1 Samuel 3 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 3
Samuel's call. The call of Samuel to the place of leadership in Israel is comparable to the call of Moses (Exodus 3:4) and the call of Isaiah (Isaiah 6). His natural reluctance is typical of those who are given a vision of the tremendous responsibility laid upon God's servants; but his alacrity is also demonstrated in his response: Speak; for thy servant heareth (1 Samuel 3:10 b).
Doom pronounced on Eli's house. The earlier message of the unnamed prophet is verified in the revelation given to Samuel. Eli is condemned because he knew of the wicked ways of his sons, but he did not rebuke them strongly enough.
Samuel established as a prophet. Samuel's first message was perhaps his most difficult to deliver. After Samuel had faithfully delivered the message of doom against Eli's house, all the people in Israel knew that God had indeed set Samuel aside in the office of the prophet. From time to time thereafter, God revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
God's need for workers. When the family of the high priest proved to be unfaithful, God had a need for someone else to lead His people. Through the ages, God has depended on men to carry His message and to perform His work.
2.
Man's need to respond to God's call. When God calls, man should answer. Although all may be reluctant to take up the work which God has for them to do, they must accept the challenge or the work will go undone.
3.
Faithfulness leads to increased opportunity. The master in the parable of the talents commended his servants who had been faithful over a few things (Matthew 25:21). He made them to be ruler over many things (cf. Matthew 25:23). This is a true principle in every day life. It is also true of those who work in God's vineyard.
CHAPTER 3 IN REVIEW
1.
How many times did God call to Samuel?
_____
2.
Who did Samuel think was calling him?
_____
3.
What physical infirmity did Eli suffer?
_____
4.
How many times did Samuel go to Eli?
_____
5.
What doors did Samuel open?
_____
6.
Against whom did God pronounce a penalty when He spoke to Samuel?
_____
7.
What word was used to describe the word of God in those days?
_____
8.
Was this God's first revelation to Samuel?
_____
9.
When did Samuel tell Eli about the revelation?
_____
10.
What two towns were used to describe the extent of Israel's territory?
_____