1 Samuel 17:47

And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and He will give all of you into our hands."

Study Bible

And all those assembled here
This phrase sets the scene for a public demonstration of God's power. The Hebrew word for "assembled" is "קָהָל" (qahal), which refers to a gathering or congregation. Historically, this assembly includes both the Israelites and the Philistines, highlighting that God's actions are meant to be a testimony to all, not just His chosen people. This public nature underscores the universal scope of God's sovereignty and the witness of His power to all nations.

will know
The Hebrew word "יָדַע" (yada) means to know, perceive, or understand. This knowledge is not merely intellectual but experiential, implying a deep recognition of God's power and authority. The verse suggests that through the events about to unfold, both Israel and its enemies will gain an undeniable awareness of God's supremacy.

that it is not by sword or spear
The mention of "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) and "spear" (חֲנִית, chanit) symbolizes human means of warfare and strength. In the ancient Near Eastern context, these weapons were the primary tools of battle. By stating that victory does not come through these means, the verse emphasizes the futility of relying solely on human strength and technology in spiritual battles.

that the LORD saves
The Hebrew name for "LORD" here is "יְהוָה" (Yahweh), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. The word "saves" (מוֹשִׁיעַ, moshia) is derived from the root "יָשַׁע" (yasha), meaning to deliver or rescue. This highlights God's role as the ultimate deliverer, reinforcing the theme that salvation is a divine act, not a human achievement.

for the battle is the LORD’s
This phrase declares God's ownership and control over the conflict. The Hebrew word for "battle" is "מִלְחָמָה" (milchamah), which can refer to both physical and spiritual warfare. By stating that the battle belongs to the LORD, the verse reassures believers that God is actively involved in their struggles and that ultimate victory is assured through His power.

and He will give all of you into our hands
The phrase "give into our hands" is a common biblical expression denoting victory and conquest. The assurance that God will deliver the enemy into the hands of His people reflects His faithfulness to His promises and His ability to fulfill them. This promise of victory is not based on Israel's might but on God's sovereign will and power.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
A young shepherd who later becomes the king of Israel. In this chapter, he is confronting Goliath, demonstrating his faith in God.

2. Goliath
A Philistine giant and warrior who defies the armies of Israel, challenging them to send a champion to fight him.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, who are at war with the Philistines and are initially fearful of Goliath.

4. The Philistines
The enemies of Israel, who have gathered for battle against the Israelites.

5. The Valley of Elah
The location where the battle between David and Goliath takes place.

Teaching Points

Faith Over Fear
David's confidence in God overcomes the fear that paralyzes the Israelite army. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's power rather than be overwhelmed by circumstances.

God's Sovereignty in Battle
The verse underscores that ultimate victory belongs to God, not through human means. Christians are reminded to rely on God's strength in their spiritual battles.

Witness to God's Power
David's victory serves as a testimony to all present that God is the true deliverer. Believers are called to live in a way that demonstrates God's power to those around them.

Spiritual Warfare
The battle against Goliath is a physical representation of the spiritual battles believers face. Christians are encouraged to put on the full armor of God and trust in His deliverance.

God's Glory
The purpose of the battle is to show that God saves, bringing glory to His name. Believers should aim to glorify God in all their endeavors.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's declaration in 1 Samuel 17:47 challenge the way we approach our own battles and struggles?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle that "the battle is the LORD's" to our daily lives and spiritual challenges?

3. How does the account of David and Goliath encourage us to trust in God's power rather than our own abilities or resources?

4. What are some modern-day "Goliaths" that believers face, and how can we rely on God to overcome them?

5. How can we ensure that our victories in life serve as a testimony to God's power and bring glory to His name, as David intended?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:14
This verse emphasizes that the LORD will fight for His people, similar to how David declares that the battle is the LORD's.

2 Chronicles 20:15
Jehoshaphat is told that the battle is not his but God's, echoing the same principle David proclaims.

Zechariah 4:6
This verse highlights that victory comes not by might nor by power, but by the Spirit of the LORD, aligning with David's declaration.

Ephesians 6:12
Paul speaks of spiritual warfare, reminding believers that their struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, which parallels the idea that the battle is the LORD's.