1 Samuel 12:16

Now, therefore, stand and see this great thing that the LORD will do before your eyes.

Study Bible

Now, therefore
This phrase serves as a transition, indicating a conclusion or a call to attention based on previous statements. In the context of 1 Samuel 12, Samuel has just recounted Israel's history and their demand for a king. The Hebrew word for "therefore" (וְעַתָּה, ve'atah) often signals a pivotal moment, urging the audience to focus on the significance of what is about to occur. It is a call to readiness and reflection, emphasizing the importance of the forthcoming divine action.

stand
The Hebrew word used here is "עִמְדוּ" (imdu), which means to stand firm or to take a position. This is not merely a physical posture but a spiritual and mental readiness to witness God's power. In biblical times, standing was often associated with respect and attentiveness, especially in the presence of God or His prophets. It implies a readiness to receive and understand the gravity of the moment.

and see
The verb "see" (רְאוּ, re'u) in Hebrew goes beyond physical sight; it encompasses understanding and perceiving with insight. Samuel is urging the Israelites to not only witness the event but to comprehend its significance. This is a call to spiritual awareness, to recognize God's hand in the unfolding events and to internalize the lesson being taught.

this great thing
The phrase "great thing" (הַדָּבָר הַגָּדוֹל, hadavar hagadol) refers to an extraordinary act of God that is about to be demonstrated. In the biblical narrative, God's "great things" often serve as signs of His power and authority. This particular event is meant to confirm Samuel's words and to remind the Israelites of God's sovereignty, reinforcing the seriousness of their request for a king and the consequences of their actions.

that the LORD
The use of "the LORD" (יְהוָה, Yahweh) is significant, as it invokes the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal relationship with Israel. It is a reminder of His faithfulness and His role as the ultimate authority over Israel. The invocation of Yahweh underscores that the forthcoming event is not a natural occurrence but a divine intervention.

will do
The phrase "will do" (עֹשֶׂה, oseh) indicates an action that God Himself will perform. It highlights God's active involvement in the world and His willingness to intervene in human affairs. This is a demonstration of His power and a reminder that He is not a distant deity but one who is intimately involved with His people.

before your eyes
The phrase "before your eyes" (לְעֵינֵיכֶם, le'eineichem) emphasizes the personal and direct nature of the experience. The Israelites are not merely hearing about God's power; they are witnessing it firsthand. This direct observation is meant to leave an indelible impression on their hearts and minds, serving as a tangible reminder of God's presence and authority. It is a call to acknowledge and respond to God's sovereignty in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
The last judge of Israel, a prophet, and a key figure in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy. He is delivering a farewell speech to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The people of Israel who demanded a king to rule over them, leading to the anointing of Saul as their first king.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is about to demonstrate His power and authority through a miraculous sign.

4. Gilgal
The location where Samuel delivered this speech, a significant site for Israel's history and religious ceremonies.

5. The Great Thing
Refers to the miraculous sign of thunder and rain during the wheat harvest, which was unusual and served as a divine confirmation of Samuel's words.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Power
God demonstrates His authority through miraculous signs, affirming His control over nature and history.

The Importance of Obedience
The Israelites' demand for a king was a rejection of God's direct rule. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our desires with God's will.

Faith in Action
Samuel's call to "stand and see" requires faith and trust in God's promises and timing, even when circumstances seem daunting.

God's Faithfulness
Despite Israel's disobedience, God remains faithful to His covenant, providing guidance and correction through His prophets.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets like Samuel serve as God's mouthpiece, delivering messages that call people back to faithfulness and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event in 1 Samuel 12:16 demonstrate God's sovereignty, and what does this teach us about His control over our lives today?

2. In what ways can we "stand and see" God's work in our own lives, especially during challenging times?

3. How does the Israelites' demand for a king reflect our own tendencies to seek security outside of God's provision?

4. What are some modern-day "prophets" or voices that God might be using to guide us back to His will, and how can we discern them?

5. How can we apply the lesson of God's faithfulness in 1 Samuel 12:16 to our personal walk with Him, especially when we face doubts or fears?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14:13
Similar to Samuel's call to "stand and see," Moses tells the Israelites to stand firm and witness the salvation of the LORD during the crossing of the Red Sea.

1 Kings 18:36-39
Elijah calls upon God to demonstrate His power through fire from heaven, showing a parallel in how God uses natural phenomena to affirm His authority and the words of His prophets.

Psalm 46:10
The call to "be still and know that I am God" echoes the idea of standing and witnessing God's power and sovereignty.