1 Samuel 16:3

Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you are to do. You are to anoint for Me the one I indicate."

Study Bible

Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice
The directive to "invite Jesse" is significant in the context of divine selection and the unfolding of God's plan. Jesse, the father of David, represents the lineage through which God would establish the Davidic covenant, ultimately leading to the birth of Jesus Christ. The Hebrew root for "invite" (קָרָא, qara) implies a calling or summoning, which in this context is not merely a social invitation but a divine appointment. The "sacrifice" here is a communal and religious event, underscoring the sacredness of the occasion. Historically, sacrifices were central to Israelite worship, serving as a means of atonement and communion with God. This invitation sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Israel's history, where God’s choice of a king is revealed.

and I will show you what you are to do
This phrase highlights the necessity of divine guidance in the fulfillment of God's purposes. The Hebrew verb "show" (רָאָה, ra'ah) conveys the idea of seeing or perceiving, suggesting that God will provide Samuel with insight and understanding. This underscores the theme of reliance on God’s wisdom rather than human judgment. In the broader biblical narrative, this reflects the principle that God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Samuel, as a prophet, is reminded that his role is to be obedient and attentive to God’s instructions, trusting in His sovereign plan.

You are to anoint for Me
The act of anointing is rich with theological significance. The Hebrew word for "anoint" (מָשַׁח, mashach) is the root of the term "Messiah," meaning "the anointed one." Anointing with oil was a symbolic act of consecration, setting someone apart for a holy purpose. In this context, it signifies God’s choice and empowerment of a leader. The phrase "for Me" emphasizes that the anointing is done on behalf of God, indicating divine ownership and authority. This prefigures the ultimate anointing of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, who fulfills the roles of prophet, priest, and king.

the one I indicate
The selection of "the one I indicate" underscores the sovereignty and omniscience of God. The Hebrew verb "indicate" (אָמַר, amar) can also mean to say or declare, suggesting a clear and authoritative communication from God. This highlights the theme of divine election, where God chooses according to His purposes and not by human criteria. In the historical context, David, the youngest and seemingly least likely of Jesse’s sons, is chosen, illustrating that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, reminding believers that God’s choices often defy human expectations and wisdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet of God who is tasked with anointing the next king of Israel. He is obedient to God's instructions despite the potential danger from King Saul.

2. Jesse
The father of David, residing in Bethlehem. He is invited to the sacrifice as part of God's plan to reveal His chosen king.

3. Bethlehem
A small town in Judah, significant as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ. It is the setting for this pivotal event in Israel's history.

4. Anointing
A ceremonial act of consecration, symbolizing God's choice and empowerment. Samuel is instructed to anoint the one God indicates, marking divine selection and blessing.

5. God's Guidance
The event underscores God's sovereign choice and guidance in leadership, emphasizing His control over Israel's future.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
Samuel's willingness to follow God's command despite personal risk teaches us the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
The anointing of David illustrates that God is in control of leadership and chooses according to His purposes, not human expectations.

The Importance of Spiritual Discernment
Samuel's task required discernment to recognize God's chosen one, reminding us to seek God's guidance in our decisions.

God's Use of the Humble and Unlikely
David, a young shepherd, was chosen over his brothers, teaching us that God often uses those who seem least likely by human standards.

Trust in God's Timing and Plan
The process of anointing David, who would not become king immediately, encourages us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samuel's obedience to God's instructions in 1 Samuel 16:3 challenge us in our own faith journey?

2. In what ways does the setting of Bethlehem in this passage foreshadow future biblical events, and how does this enhance our understanding of God's plan?

3. Reflect on a time when you had to rely on spiritual discernment. How can Samuel's example guide you in seeking God's direction?

4. How does the concept of anointing in this passage relate to the New Testament understanding of being chosen and set apart by God?

5. What lessons can we learn from God's choice of David about valuing inner character over outward appearances in our relationships and leadership roles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9:16
This verse describes God's previous instruction to Samuel to anoint Saul as king, highlighting the continuity of God's guidance in leadership transitions.

Psalm 78:70-72
These verses reflect on God's choice of David, a shepherd, to lead His people, emphasizing God's criteria for leadership based on the heart rather than outward appearance.

Acts 13:22
This New Testament reference to David as a man after God's own heart connects to the theme of divine selection and approval.