1 Samuel 19:20

he sent messengers to capture him. But when they saw the group of prophets prophesying, with Samuel leading them, the Spirit of God came upon them, and Saul's messengers also began to prophesy.

Study Bible

So Saul sent messengers
The phrase highlights Saul's persistent pursuit of David, driven by jealousy and fear. The Hebrew word for "messengers" is "mal'akhim," which can also mean "angels" or "representatives." This reflects the authority Saul wielded, sending his envoys with a mission to capture David. Historically, this action underscores the political tension and the lengths to which Saul would go to eliminate perceived threats to his throne.

to capture David
David, the anointed future king, was seen as a threat to Saul's reign. The Hebrew root "lakad" means "to capture" or "to seize," indicating Saul's intent to physically apprehend David. This reflects the broader narrative of David's life, where he is often pursued but divinely protected, symbolizing God's sovereign plan and protection over His chosen ones.

But when they saw the group of prophets prophesying
The "group of prophets" refers to a community of individuals dedicated to worship and proclaiming God's word. The Hebrew term "nevi'im" for "prophets" indicates those who are divinely inspired. This scene is significant as it shows the power of God's presence, which can transform even those with hostile intentions. The act of prophesying here is a divine intervention, demonstrating God's control over human affairs.

with Samuel standing there as their leader
Samuel, the last judge and a prophet, is depicted as the leader of this prophetic group. His presence signifies spiritual authority and guidance. The Hebrew word "natsab" for "standing" implies a position of leadership and oversight. Samuel's role as a leader underscores his influence and the respect he commanded as God's chosen prophet, guiding the spiritual direction of Israel.

the Spirit of God came upon Saul’s messengers
The "Spirit of God" is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, representing divine empowerment and presence. The Hebrew word "ruach" for "Spirit" conveys breath, wind, or spirit, indicating a powerful, life-giving force. This divine intervention upon Saul's messengers illustrates God's ability to override human intentions, turning a mission of capture into an act of worship.

and they also began to prophesy
The transformation of Saul's messengers into prophets is a miraculous event, showcasing God's sovereignty. The Hebrew root "naba" for "prophesy" means to speak or sing by divine inspiration. This act of prophesying by those sent to harm David highlights the futility of opposing God's will and serves as a testament to the transformative power of God's Spirit, which can change hearts and redirect purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is increasingly consumed by jealousy and fear of David, leading him to seek David's capture.

2. David
The anointed future king of Israel, who is fleeing from Saul's attempts to kill him.

3. Messengers
Sent by Saul to capture David, but they are overcome by the Spirit of God and begin to prophesy.

4. Samuel
The prophet and last judge of Israel, who is leading a group of prophets and is a spiritual mentor to David.

5. Prophets
A group of individuals who are prophesying under the influence of the Spirit of God, demonstrating God's power and presence.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's Spirit can intervene in human affairs, overriding human intentions and plans. This reminds us that God's purposes will prevail, regardless of human opposition.

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The Spirit of God can transform situations and people, even those who come with hostile intentions. This encourages believers to trust in the Spirit's power to change hearts and circumstances.

God's Protection
David's protection through the Spirit's intervention shows that God is a refuge for those who are pursued by enemies. Believers can find comfort in God's ability to protect and deliver.

The Role of Prophets
The presence of prophets and their prophesying highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance. It encourages believers to seek and value godly counsel and prophetic insight.

Unexpected Instruments
God can use anyone, even those with ill intentions, to fulfill His purposes. This challenges believers to remain open to how God might work in unexpected ways and through unexpected people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the intervention of the Spirit of God in 1 Samuel 19:20 demonstrate God's sovereignty over human plans?

2. In what ways can we see the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our own lives and communities today?

3. How does the protection of David in this passage encourage us to trust in God's protection in our own lives?

4. What role do spiritual leaders and prophets play in guiding and protecting God's people, and how can we apply this in our church communities?

5. How can we remain open to God using unexpected people or situations to accomplish His purposes in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 9
Saul of Tarsus, later known as Paul, experiences a dramatic encounter with God, similar to how Saul's messengers are overtaken by the Spirit.

Numbers 11
The Spirit of God comes upon the seventy elders, causing them to prophesy, illustrating God's sovereign control over His Spirit.

1 Samuel 10
Saul himself previously prophesied when the Spirit of God came upon him, showing a pattern of God's Spirit intervening in unexpected ways.