1 Samuel 10:4

They will greet you and give you two loaves of bread, which you will accept from their hands.

Study Bible

They will greet you
This phrase indicates a customary act of hospitality and recognition. In the Hebrew context, greeting someone was more than a mere formality; it was an acknowledgment of the person's presence and often a sign of peace and goodwill. The Hebrew root word for "greet" is "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), which can also mean to inquire or ask after someone's welfare. This greeting signifies God's orchestration of events, as these men were divinely appointed to meet Saul, affirming his anointing as king.

and give you
The act of giving in the ancient Near Eastern culture was significant, often symbolizing a transfer of blessing or favor. The Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan) means to give, bestow, or grant. This act of giving by the men Saul encounters is a tangible sign of God's provision and favor upon Saul. It underscores the theme of divine providence, where God supplies the needs of His chosen ones.

two loaves of bread
Bread in biblical times was a staple of life, symbolizing sustenance and provision. The number two can signify confirmation or witness in Scripture, as seen in the requirement for two witnesses to establish a matter (Deuteronomy 19:15). The two loaves may symbolize God's confirmation of Saul's kingship and His provision for the journey ahead. Bread, being a basic necessity, also points to God's care for even the simplest needs of His people.

which you will accept
Acceptance here is an act of obedience and humility. The Hebrew word "לָקַח" (laqach) means to take, receive, or accept. Saul's acceptance of the bread is symbolic of his acceptance of God's calling and provision. It reflects a heart willing to receive what God has ordained, a crucial attitude for anyone called to serve in God's kingdom.

from their hands
This phrase emphasizes the personal nature of the transaction. The hands in biblical symbolism often represent action, power, and possession. Receiving from their hands indicates a direct and personal provision from God through human agents. It highlights the interconnectedness of God's people and how He uses individuals to fulfill His purposes. This personal interaction also serves as a reminder of the community aspect of God's work, where His plans often unfold through relationships and shared experiences.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
- The prophet who anointed Saul as the first king of Israel. He is a key figure in guiding Saul through the process of becoming king.

2. Saul
- The first king of Israel, chosen by God and anointed by Samuel. This verse is part of the signs given to Saul to confirm his anointing.

3. The Men at Tabor
- These are the individuals Saul encounters who greet him and give him two loaves of bread, fulfilling one of the signs Samuel predicted.

4. Tabor
- A location mentioned in the context of Saul's journey after being anointed by Samuel. It is a place where Saul receives confirmation of his kingship through the fulfillment of Samuel's prophecy.

5. The Loaves of Bread
- Symbolic of God's provision and confirmation of Saul's anointing as king. The bread serves as a tangible sign of God's promise.

Teaching Points

God's Confirmation through Signs
God often confirms His plans and purposes through tangible signs. Just as Saul received bread as a sign of his anointing, we can look for God's confirmations in our lives.

Provision and Trust
The giving of bread symbolizes God's provision. We are reminded to trust in God's provision for our needs, both physical and spiritual.

Obedience to God's Instructions
Saul's acceptance of the bread signifies obedience to God's instructions through Samuel. We should be attentive and obedient to God's guidance in our lives.

Community and Fellowship
The act of greeting and giving bread highlights the importance of community and fellowship among believers. We are called to support and encourage one another in our faith journeys.

Recognizing God's Presence
The fulfillment of Samuel's prophecy through the giving of bread is a reminder to recognize and acknowledge God's presence and work in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the giving of bread to Saul serve as a confirmation of God's calling in his life, and how can we seek similar confirmations in our own spiritual journeys?

2. In what ways does God's provision in 1 Samuel 10:4 parallel other instances of divine provision in the Bible, and how can these examples strengthen our faith?

3. What role does obedience play in receiving God's promises, as seen in Saul's acceptance of the bread, and how can we apply this principle in our daily lives?

4. How can the concept of community and fellowship, as demonstrated by the men at Tabor, be fostered within our own church or small group settings?

5. Reflect on a time when you recognized God's presence in your life through a specific sign or provision. How did this experience impact your faith and trust in God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 14:18
- Melchizedek brings out bread and wine to Abram, symbolizing provision and blessing, similar to the bread given to Saul as a sign of God's favor.

Matthew 14:19
- Jesus feeds the five thousand with loaves of bread, demonstrating God's provision and care, paralleling the provision Saul receives.

John 6:35
- Jesus declares Himself the Bread of Life, emphasizing spiritual sustenance, which can be related to the physical sustenance Saul receives as a sign of God's presence.