1 Samuel 17:35

I went after it, struck it down, and delivered the lamb from its mouth. If it reared up against me, I would grab it by its fur, strike it down, and kill it.

Study Bible

I went after it
This phrase highlights David's proactive courage and determination. The Hebrew root for "went after" is "רדף" (radaph), which conveys a sense of pursuit and relentless determination. In the context of David's life, this reflects his heart as a shepherd, willing to risk his own safety for the sake of his flock. This mirrors the heart of God as the Good Shepherd, who pursues His people with unwavering love and protection.

struck it down
The Hebrew word "נכה" (nakah) is used here, meaning to strike or smite. This action demonstrates David's willingness to confront danger head-on. It is a testament to his faith and reliance on God's strength rather than his own. In a broader biblical context, this act of striking down the predator can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual warfare, where believers are called to confront and overcome evil through the power of God.

delivered the lamb from its mouth
The act of delivering the lamb signifies salvation and rescue. The Hebrew word "נצל" (natsal) means to snatch away or rescue. This imagery is powerful, as it portrays David as a savior figure, foreshadowing Christ's ultimate deliverance of humanity from sin. The lamb, often a symbol of innocence and sacrifice, represents those who are vulnerable and in need of protection.

When it turned on me
This phrase indicates a shift in the narrative, where the predator becomes the aggressor. The Hebrew word "קם" (qum) means to rise up or stand against. This moment of confrontation is crucial, as it tests David's resolve and faith. It serves as a reminder that spiritual battles often intensify when the enemy feels threatened, but believers are called to stand firm in their faith.

I seized it by its fur
The act of seizing the predator by its fur demonstrates David's boldness and physical engagement in the battle. The Hebrew word "אחז" (achaz) means to take hold of or grasp. This action signifies taking control of the situation with confidence. In a spiritual sense, it encourages believers to take hold of God's promises and authority when facing challenges.

struck it
Reiterating the earlier action, this phrase emphasizes the decisive nature of David's response. The repetition of "נכה" (nakah) underscores the importance of persistence and determination in overcoming obstacles. It serves as an inspiration for believers to continue fighting the good fight of faith, even when faced with repeated challenges.

and killed it
The finality of this phrase, with the Hebrew word "מות" (muth) meaning to kill or put to death, signifies complete victory over the threat. This act of killing the predator is symbolic of the ultimate triumph over sin and evil through Christ's sacrifice. It reassures believers of the victory they have in Jesus, who has conquered death and offers eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The young shepherd who would later become the king of Israel. In this passage, he demonstrates his courage and faith by recounting his experience of protecting his flock from predators.

2. Sheep
Represents the flock that David was responsible for as a shepherd. The sheep symbolize those who are vulnerable and in need of protection.

3. Lion and Bear
Predators that threatened David's flock. They symbolize the dangers and challenges that believers may face in life.

4. Israel
The nation that David would eventually lead. This event foreshadows David's future role as a protector and leader of God's people.

5. Goliath
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the context of 1 Samuel 17 is David's preparation to face Goliath, the Philistine giant. David's past experiences with the lion and bear build his faith and confidence to confront Goliath.

Teaching Points

Courage in the Face of Danger
David's actions teach us to confront challenges with courage, trusting in God's strength rather than our own.

Faithfulness in Small Responsibilities
David's faithfulness in protecting his sheep prepared him for greater responsibilities. We should be diligent in our current roles, trusting that God is preparing us for future tasks.

God's Preparation and Provision
God uses past experiences to prepare us for future challenges. Reflect on how God has equipped you through past trials.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as David fought physical predators, believers are called to stand firm against spiritual threats, using the armor of God as described in Ephesians 6.

Trust in God's Deliverance
David's confidence was rooted in his past experiences of God's deliverance. We should remember and recount God's faithfulness in our lives to build our faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's experience as a shepherd prepare him for his encounter with Goliath, and how can your past experiences prepare you for future challenges?

2. In what ways can you demonstrate courage and faithfulness in your current responsibilities, as David did with his sheep?

3. Reflect on a time when God delivered you from a difficult situation. How can this memory strengthen your faith in current or future trials?

4. How does the imagery of a shepherd protecting his flock help you understand God's care and protection over your life?

5. What spiritual "lions and bears" are you facing today, and how can you apply the principles of Ephesians 6 to stand firm against them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
David, as a shepherd, writes about the Lord being his shepherd, drawing a parallel between his care for his sheep and God's care for His people.

John 10:11-15
Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep, echoing David's protective actions.

Hebrews 11:32-34
David is mentioned among the heroes of faith, highlighting his trust in God to deliver him from danger.