1 Samuel 3:10

Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before, "Samuel! Samuel!" And Samuel answered, "Speak, for Your servant is listening."

Study Bible

Then the LORD came
The phrase "Then the LORD came" signifies a divine visitation, a moment when God Himself intervenes in human history. In Hebrew, the word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. This moment is pivotal, as it marks a transition from the period of the judges to the establishment of prophetic leadership in Israel. Theologically, it underscores God's initiative in reaching out to humanity, a theme consistent throughout Scripture.

and stood there
The imagery of the LORD standing suggests a tangible presence, a theophany where God manifests Himself in a perceivable way. This is not merely a vision or a dream; it is a real encounter. The Hebrew root "natsab" conveys the idea of standing firm or taking a position, indicating God's readiness to communicate and act. Historically, such divine appearances were rare and significant, often heralding a new phase in God's redemptive plan.

calling as at the other times
This phrase highlights God's persistence and patience. The repetition of His call to Samuel demonstrates God's desire for a relationship and His willingness to wait for a response. The Hebrew verb "qara" means to call out or proclaim, suggesting an invitation to dialogue. This reflects God's character as one who seeks to engage with His people, inviting them into His purposes.

'Samuel! Samuel!'
The repetition of Samuel's name is a Hebraic expression of intimacy and urgency. In biblical narratives, the doubling of a name often precedes a significant revelation or mission (e.g., "Moses, Moses" in Exodus 3:4). It indicates God's personal knowledge of and care for Samuel, affirming his role in God's plan. This moment marks Samuel's transition from a boy serving in the temple to a prophet of the LORD.

And Samuel answered
Samuel's response is immediate, indicating his readiness and willingness to listen. The Hebrew root "anah" means to answer or respond, suggesting an active engagement with God's call. This is a model of obedience and attentiveness, qualities that define Samuel's prophetic ministry. It serves as an example for believers to be responsive to God's voice in their lives.

'Speak, for Your servant is listening.'
Samuel's words reflect humility and submission. The term "servant" (Hebrew "ebed") denotes one who is devoted to serving another, highlighting Samuel's recognition of God's authority. The act of listening (Hebrew "shama") implies not just hearing but understanding and obeying. This posture of receptivity is essential for anyone seeking to discern God's will. It is a reminder that true service to God begins with a heart that is open and attentive to His voice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The God of Israel, who is actively communicating with Samuel, indicating His desire to guide and lead His people.

2. Samuel
A young boy serving in the temple under Eli, chosen by God to be a prophet and leader in Israel.

3. Eli
The high priest of Israel at the time, who mentors Samuel and helps him recognize the voice of God.

4. The Tabernacle
The place where Samuel is serving, representing the presence of God among His people.

5. The Calling
A significant event where God directly calls Samuel, marking the beginning of his prophetic ministry.

Teaching Points

Listening to God
Just as Samuel was attentive to God's voice, we must cultivate a heart that listens for God's guidance in our lives.

Recognizing God's Call
Samuel initially did not recognize God's voice. We, too, may need guidance and discernment to understand when God is speaking to us.

Responding with Obedience
Samuel's response, "Speak, for Your servant is listening," demonstrates a posture of humility and readiness to obey God's instructions.

Mentorship and Guidance
Eli's role in helping Samuel recognize God's voice highlights the importance of spiritual mentors in our journey of faith.

God's Initiative
God takes the initiative to call Samuel, reminding us that God actively seeks a relationship with us and desires to use us for His purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we cultivate a heart that is attentive to God's voice in our daily lives?

2. What role do spiritual mentors play in helping us discern God's calling, and how can we seek such guidance?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our response to God's call is one of obedience and readiness, like Samuel's?

4. How does understanding God's initiative in calling Samuel encourage us in our own walk with God?

5. What other biblical figures experienced a direct call from God, and what can we learn from their responses?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3
The calling of Moses, where God speaks directly to him, similar to how He calls Samuel.

Isaiah 6
Isaiah's vision and calling, where he responds to God's call with readiness, paralleling Samuel's response.

Acts 9
The conversion and calling of Saul (Paul), showing God's direct intervention in calling His servants.

John 10
Jesus speaks about His sheep hearing His voice, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and responding to God's call.