1 Samuel 2:11
Then Elkanah went home to Ramah, but the boy began ministering to the LORD before Eli the priest.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 2:11?

2. How does 1 Samuel 2:11 demonstrate the importance of serving the Lord faithfully?

3. What can we learn from Elkanah's actions in 1 Samuel 2:11?

4. How does Samuel's service foreshadow Christ's obedience in the New Testament?

5. How can we apply Samuel's dedication to our own spiritual service today?

6. What role does parental guidance play in spiritual growth, as seen in 1 Samuel 2:11?

7. What is the significance of Samuel ministering before the LORD as a child in 1 Samuel 2:11?

8. How does 1 Samuel 2:11 reflect the theme of divine calling and service?

9. Why is Eli's role important in understanding 1 Samuel 2:11?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 2?

11. Why does the list of David's mighty men in 1 Chronicles 11 differ from similar lists in other biblical passages like 2 Samuel 23, and can both be historically accurate?

12. What were the key events in Samuel's life?

13. Why does King David, described elsewhere as righteous (1 Kings 15:5), resort to deceit and murder in 2 Samuel 11:14-17?

14. (2 Samuel 23:8 vs 1 Chronicles 11:11) Why do the records conflict on the number of enemies killed (eight hundred vs three hundred)?
Discussion Questions
1. How does Elkanah's return to Ramah while Samuel stays at Shiloh demonstrate trust in God's plan for his son?

2. In what ways can we dedicate our own lives or the lives of our children to the LORD, similar to how Hannah dedicated Samuel?

3. How does Samuel's service under Eli illustrate the importance of mentorship in our spiritual growth?

4. What small acts of service can we commit to in our daily lives that might prepare us for greater responsibilities in God's kingdom?

5. How can the account of Samuel's early life encourage us to trust in God's timing and purposes, even when they are not immediately apparent?1. In Hannah's prayer, she celebrates God's reversal of fortunes (1 Samuel 2:4-8). How do these verses speak to your current circumstances?

2. Compare and contrast Hannah's dedication to God with Eli's sons' disregard for Him. How does their relationship with God affect their actions and consequences?

3. What aspects of God's character does Hannah highlight in her prayer? How does this understanding of God influence her behavior and attitude?

4. How does Eli's response to his sons' wicked behavior reflect on his responsibilities as a priest and a parent?

5. How can the downfall of Eli's house serve as a warning for our conduct as individuals and as a church?

6. What is the significance of the prophecy about the 'faithful priest' and God's 'anointed one'? How does it relate to later biblical narratives?

7. How do you reconcile the goodness of God with the severe judgment announced on Eli's house?

8. How does the behavior of Eli's sons violate the spirit of the sacrifices and offerings to God?

9. Reflect on the statement: "Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained." (1 Samuel 2:30). How does this verse apply to your daily life?

10. How does Hannah's prayer model a heart of gratitude? What can you learn from it?

11. What can we learn from Samuel's faithfulness and his service to the Lord in his youth?

12. How can the drastic consequences faced by Eli's house inspire accountability in leadership roles today?

13. In what ways can you ensure that your reverence for God is reflected in your actions, similar to Hannah and Samuel?

14. How can you respond when you see behaviors like those of Hophni and Phinehas in your community or church?

15. What steps can you take to prevent falling into complacency and sin like Eli's sons?

16. What actions demonstrate that you 'honor' God in your life?

17. Reflect on how God blessed Hannah for her faithfulness. How does this inspire you to trust God with your desires?

18. How can you apply the lessons learned from Eli's family to your personal, professional, or spiritual leadership roles?

19. Considering Eli's ineffective rebuke, how can you effectively admonish those under your care when they stray?

20. What elements from Hannah's prayer could you incorporate into your own prayers to deepen your connection with God?

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