1 Samuel 22:15
Was that day the first time I inquired of God for him? Far be it from me! Let not the king accuse your servant or any of my father's household, for your servant knew nothing of this whole affair--not in part or in whole."
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 22:15?

2. How does 1 Samuel 22:15 illustrate the importance of seeking truth before judgment?

3. What role does Ahimelech's innocence play in understanding God's justice in 1 Samuel?

4. How can we apply Ahimelech's defense to our own spiritual integrity today?

5. In what ways does 1 Samuel 22:15 connect to Jesus' teachings on innocence?

6. How does this verse encourage us to trust God's protection in unjust situations?

7. Why did David seek refuge with Ahimelech in 1 Samuel 22:15?

8. How does 1 Samuel 22:15 reflect on the role of priests in Israel?

9. What does 1 Samuel 22:15 reveal about David's relationship with Saul?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 22?

11. Did David commit rape against Bathsheba?

12. Why did Abiathar and Ahimelech face King Saul's wrath?

13. While Leviticus 4 describes an intricate sacrificial system, why do other parts of the Bible suggest that God desires obedience over sacrifice (e.g., 1 Samuel 15:22)?

14. Are there historical or logistical issues with Doeg, a single Edomite, carrying out the massacre of so many priests (1 Samuel 21:7 - 22:18-19)?
Discussion Questions
1. How does Ahimelech's response to Saul demonstrate the importance of maintaining integrity in the face of false accusations?

2. In what ways can we practice "inquiring of God" in our daily lives, and what tools has God provided us for this purpose?

3. Reflect on a time when doing the right thing came at a personal cost. How did you see God's hand at work in that situation?

4. How can we support and encourage one another in our faith communities, especially when facing trials or persecution?

5. What lessons can we learn from Ahimelech's account about trusting in God's justice, even when immediate circumstances seem unjust?1. How does David demonstrate leadership in the face of adversity in this chapter?

2. How does Saul's fear affect his judgement and actions? Can you think of a time when fear has clouded your judgement?

3. Why do you think the disenfranchised individuals gathered around David at the cave of Adullam?

4. In what ways does the story of Doeg the Edomite serve as a warning about spiritual betrayal?

5. How does David show compassion and responsibility towards Abiathar, the survivor of the massacre?

6. How might you have responded if you were in David's position, knowing that your actions inadvertently led to the massacre of innocent priests?

7. Reflect on the actions of Ahimelech when he helped David. Was he wrong in his actions? Why or why not?

8. How does 1 Samuel 22 showcase the impact of false narratives and miscommunication (in the case of Doeg)?

9. How does this chapter illuminate the difference between godly and worldly leadership?

10. In your life, have you ever felt like David—pursued, under threat, and responsible for others?

11. Can you draw parallels between David's band of followers and the Church, both being havens for the outcasts and distressed?

12. How does this chapter reinforce the belief in divine providence amidst adversities?

13. What are some contemporary examples of leaders who acted out of fear and paranoia like Saul?

14. Have you ever felt caught in a situation where, like Ahimelech, you made a decision with good intentions but faced unforeseen negative consequences?

15. How does this chapter speak to the responsibility of leaders to protect and ensure the safety of their followers?

16. How can we apply the lessons from David's leadership in our own communities?

17. If you were in the position of Saul's servants who refused to kill the priests, what would your reaction be?

18. How can we ensure that we do not become like Doeg, misrepresenting truth for personal gain?

19. How does the chapter reflect on the theme of innocence suffering due to others' actions?

20. What can we learn from David's acceptance of Abiathar and his promise to protect him?

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