1 Samuel 11:10

Then the men of Jabesh said to Nahash, "Tomorrow we will come out, and you can do with us whatever seems good to you."

Study Bible

Then the men of Jabesh said
The men of Jabesh, referring to the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead, were in a dire situation. Historically, Jabesh-gilead was a city east of the Jordan River, often vulnerable to attacks due to its location. The phrase indicates a moment of decision and communication. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or proclamation, suggesting the gravity of their message. This reflects the desperation and strategic thinking of the men, as they were under siege by Nahash the Ammonite.

Tomorrow we will come out to you
The word "tomorrow" (מָחָר, machar) signifies a specific time frame, indicating urgency and immediacy. The phrase "we will come out to you" suggests a surrender or a meeting, which in the context of ancient Near Eastern warfare, often meant submission to the enemy's terms. This was a tactical move, as the men of Jabesh were buying time, hoping for deliverance. The historical context reveals that this was a common practice in warfare, where besieged cities would negotiate terms to avoid destruction.

and you can do with us
This phrase indicates a willingness to submit to the enemy's will, reflecting the dire circumstances faced by the people of Jabesh. The Hebrew root for "do" (עָשָׂה, asah) implies action or making, often used in the context of creating or executing a plan. This highlights the vulnerability and helplessness of the people, as they were at the mercy of Nahash's intentions. It underscores the severity of their plight and their hope for a miraculous intervention.

whatever seems good to you
The phrase "whatever seems good" (טוֹב, tov) is significant in Hebrew, often associated with what is pleasing or beneficial. In this context, it is a statement of submission, allowing Nahash to determine their fate. Historically, this reflects the brutal reality of ancient warfare, where the victor had the power to decide the fate of the defeated. Theologically, it sets the stage for divine intervention, as the people of Jabesh were ultimately seeking deliverance from God through Saul, the newly anointed king.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Men of Jabesh
The inhabitants of Jabesh Gilead, an Israelite city under threat from the Ammonites. They are seeking deliverance from their oppressors.

2. Nahash the Ammonite
The king of the Ammonites who besieged Jabesh Gilead and threatened to gouge out the right eye of every man as a disgrace to all Israel.

3. Saul
The newly anointed king of Israel who, upon hearing of Jabesh Gilead's plight, rallies the Israelites to their defense.

4. Jabesh Gilead
A city in the territory of Gilead, east of the Jordan River, significant for its later connection to King Saul.

5. Ammonites
A neighboring nation often in conflict with Israel, descendants of Lot through his younger daughter.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Timing
The men of Jabesh Gilead demonstrate a form of trust by agreeing to Nahash's terms, which ultimately leads to their deliverance. We should trust God's timing and provision in our own lives.

Leadership and Courage
Saul's response to the crisis shows the importance of godly leadership and courage. As Christians, we are called to step up in times of need and lead with integrity and faith.

Community and Unity
The unity of Israel in responding to Jabesh Gilead's call for help illustrates the strength found in community. Believers should support one another in times of trial.

God's Deliverance
This passage reminds us of God's power to deliver His people from seemingly impossible situations. We should have faith in God's ability to rescue and redeem.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the response of the men of Jabesh Gilead reflect their faith or lack thereof, and what can we learn from their situation about trusting God in difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways does Saul's leadership in this chapter foreshadow the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

3. How does the unity of the Israelites in defending Jabesh Gilead serve as a model for the church today in addressing communal challenges?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's deliverance in your life. How does this passage encourage you to trust in God's provision and timing?

5. How can we apply the principle of leaving vengeance to God, as seen in the broader account of 1 Samuel, in our personal relationships and conflicts?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 21
The men of Jabesh Gilead are previously mentioned in the context of the aftermath of the civil war with the tribe of Benjamin, highlighting their historical significance and relationship with Israel.

1 Samuel 10
Saul's anointing as king sets the stage for his leadership role in the deliverance of Jabesh Gilead, demonstrating God's providence in raising leaders for His people.

Romans 12:19
The concept of leaving vengeance to God can be seen in the Israelites' reliance on divine intervention through Saul rather than taking matters into their own hands.