1 Samuel 16:4

So Samuel did what the LORD had said and went to Bethlehem. When the elders of the town met him, they trembled and asked, "Do you come in peace?"

Study Bible

So Samuel did what the LORD had said
This phrase highlights Samuel's obedience to God's command. The Hebrew root for "did" is עָשָׂה (asah), which means to accomplish or to act. Samuel's actions reflect a deep commitment to God's will, demonstrating the importance of obedience in the life of a believer. In a historical context, prophets like Samuel were expected to follow divine instructions precisely, as they were God's mouthpieces on earth. This obedience is a model for Christians today, emphasizing the need to trust and act upon God's guidance.

and went to Bethlehem
Bethlehem, meaning "house of bread" in Hebrew, is a significant location in biblical history. It is the birthplace of King David and later, Jesus Christ. Samuel's journey to Bethlehem marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as he is about to anoint David, the future king. This journey signifies God's unfolding plan for Israel and foreshadows the coming of the Messiah. Archaeologically, Bethlehem was a small, unassuming town, yet it played a crucial role in God's redemptive narrative, reminding believers that God often chooses the humble and unexpected to fulfill His purposes.

When the elders of the town met him
The elders were the leaders and decision-makers in ancient Israelite communities. Their meeting with Samuel indicates the respect and authority he held as a prophet. The Hebrew term for "elders" is זְקֵנִים (zeqenim), which denotes those with wisdom and experience. This encounter underscores the societal structure of the time, where elders played a vital role in maintaining order and governance. For Christians, this interaction highlights the importance of respecting and seeking wisdom from those who are spiritually mature and experienced.

they trembled and asked
The reaction of the elders, trembling, suggests fear or reverence. The Hebrew root for "trembled" is חָרַד (charad), which can mean to quake or be afraid. This response indicates the seriousness with which Samuel's visit was regarded. Prophets often brought messages of judgment or significant change, so the elders' fear reflects their awareness of the potential gravity of Samuel's mission. This serves as a reminder of the awe and respect due to God's messengers and the weight of their words.

Do you come in peace?
This question reveals the elders' concern about Samuel's intentions. The Hebrew word for "peace" is שָׁלוֹם (shalom), which encompasses not just the absence of conflict but also completeness and well-being. The inquiry reflects the desire for assurance that Samuel's visit would not bring divine judgment or upheaval. In a broader scriptural context, this highlights the human longing for peace and the assurance that comes from being in right standing with God. For believers, it is a reminder of the peace that comes through faith and obedience to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel is obedient to God's command to anoint a new king, demonstrating his faithfulness and dedication to God's will.

2. The LORD
God, who directs Samuel to go to Bethlehem to anoint David as the future king of Israel, showing His sovereign plan and choice.

3. Bethlehem
A small town in Judah, significant as the birthplace of David and later Jesus, highlighting its importance in biblical history.

4. Elders of the City
The leaders of Bethlehem who are initially fearful of Samuel's visit, indicating the weight and authority of Samuel's presence as a prophet.

5. Event of Anointing
This event sets the stage for David's anointing as king, a pivotal moment in Israel's history that aligns with God's plan for His people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Samuel's immediate action upon God's instruction teaches us the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan, even when the outcome is uncertain.

God's Sovereignty
The choice of Bethlehem and David illustrates God's sovereign control over history and His ability to use humble beginnings for great purposes.

Fear and Reverence
The elders' reaction to Samuel's arrival reminds us of the reverence due to God's messengers and the seriousness of God's work.

Preparation for Leadership
David's anointing, though not immediate in its fulfillment, shows that God prepares His chosen leaders in His timing.

Peaceful Intentions
Samuel's assurance of peace upon his arrival encourages us to approach others with peace and clarity of purpose in our interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Samuel's obedience to God's command in 1 Samuel 16:4 challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. What can we learn from the elders' reaction to Samuel's visit about the importance of reverence and respect for God's work and His messengers?

3. How does the choice of Bethlehem as the location for David's anointing connect to the broader account of God's plan for salvation?

4. In what ways does the account of David's anointing encourage us to trust in God's timing and preparation for the roles He has for us?

5. How can we apply the principle of approaching others with peace, as demonstrated by Samuel, in our own relationships and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
The preceding chapter where God rejects Saul as king, setting the context for Samuel's mission to anoint a new king.

Ruth 1:1-2
Bethlehem is introduced as the setting for the account of Ruth, connecting the lineage of David and the Messianic line.

Matthew 2:1
Bethlehem is mentioned as the birthplace of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy and connecting the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Psalm 23
Written by David, this psalm reflects the heart of the shepherd king who was anointed in Bethlehem.