1 Samuel 10:18

and said to the Israelites, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I rescued you from the hands of the Egyptians and of all the kingdoms that oppressed you.'

Study Bible

and said to them
This phrase indicates a direct communication from Samuel to the people of Israel. In the Hebrew context, the act of speaking is often associated with authority and divine commission. Samuel, as a prophet, serves as the mouthpiece of God, emphasizing the importance of the message that follows. This highlights the role of prophets in Israel as intermediaries between God and His people.

This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says
The phrase establishes the divine origin of the message. "LORD" (YHWH) is the covenant name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. "The God of Israel" underscores the special relationship between God and the nation of Israel, reminding them of their identity as His chosen people. This introduction is a common prophetic formula, lending weight and authority to the message.

I brought Israel up out of Egypt
This statement recalls the Exodus, a foundational event in Israel's history. The Hebrew verb for "brought up" (הֶעֱלֵיתִי, he'elitiy) conveys the idea of elevation and deliverance. The Exodus is a symbol of God's power and faithfulness, serving as a reminder of His past acts of salvation. It is a call to remember God's mighty deeds and His ability to rescue His people from bondage.

and I delivered you from the power of Egypt
The word "delivered" (וָאַצִּיל, va'atzil) in Hebrew implies rescue and salvation. This emphasizes God's active role in liberating Israel from Egyptian oppression. The "power of Egypt" refers to the political and military might of the Egyptian empire, which God overcame to free His people. This deliverance is a testament to God's sovereignty over nations and His commitment to His covenant promises.

and all the kingdoms that oppressed you
This phrase expands the scope of God's deliverance beyond Egypt to include all adversaries. The term "oppressed" (הַלּוֹחֲצִים, hallochatzim) suggests harsh treatment and subjugation. Historically, Israel faced numerous threats from surrounding nations, and this statement reassures them of God's protection against all forms of oppression. It serves as a reminder of God's ongoing provision and defense throughout their history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
The prophet and last judge of Israel, who anointed Saul as the first king of Israel.

2. Israel
The nation chosen by God, whom He delivered from slavery in Egypt.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved before God delivered them through Moses.

4. The LORD, the God of Israel
The covenant-keeping God who delivered Israel from oppression.

5. Oppression by Kingdoms
Refers to the various nations that oppressed Israel throughout their history, including Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises, as demonstrated by His deliverance of Israel from Egypt. This reminds us to trust in His faithfulness in our own lives.

Divine Deliverance
Just as God delivered Israel from physical oppression, He delivers us from spiritual bondage through Jesus Christ. Reflect on areas where you need God's deliverance today.

Remembrance of God's Acts
Remembering God's past acts of deliverance strengthens our faith. Regularly recount and give thanks for how God has worked in your life.

God's Sovereignty
God is sovereign over all nations and powers. Trust in His control over the circumstances of your life and the world.

Covenant Relationship
God’s deliverance of Israel was rooted in His covenant relationship with them. Reflect on your covenant relationship with God through Christ and its implications for your daily life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the deliverance of Israel from Egypt demonstrate God's faithfulness, and how can this encourage you in your current circumstances?

2. In what ways have you experienced God's deliverance in your life, and how can you use these experiences to strengthen your faith?

3. How can remembering God's past acts of deliverance help you face present challenges with confidence?

4. What does God's sovereignty over the kingdoms that oppressed Israel teach us about His control over the nations today?

5. How does understanding your covenant relationship with God through Christ impact your daily decisions and actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
Describes the Passover and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, highlighting God's power and faithfulness.

Judges 2
Discusses the cycle of Israel's disobedience and God's deliverance, emphasizing His mercy and justice.

Psalm 136
A psalm of thanksgiving that recounts God's enduring love and deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Acts 7
Stephen's speech, which recounts Israel's history, including their deliverance from Egypt, showing God's consistent faithfulness.