1 Samuel 2:18
Now Samuel was ministering before the LORD--a boy wearing a linen ephod.
Now Samuel
The name "Samuel" in Hebrew is "שְׁמוּאֵל" (Shemuel), which means "heard by God" or "name of God." This name is significant as it reflects the divine intervention in his birth, as his mother Hannah prayed earnestly for a child. Samuel's life is a testament to God's faithfulness in answering prayers and His sovereign plan for Israel. From a young age, Samuel is set apart for God's service, indicating the importance of dedicating one's life to God from an early age.

was ministering
The Hebrew word used here is "מְשָׁרֵת" (mesharet), which means to serve or minister. This term is often used in the context of priestly or Levitical service. Samuel's role as a minister, even as a child, underscores the idea that service to God is not limited by age. It also highlights the importance of being actively involved in God's work, regardless of one's stage in life. Samuel's ministry foreshadows his future role as a prophet and judge over Israel.

before the LORD
The phrase "before the LORD" signifies serving in the presence of God, which is a position of honor and responsibility. In the Hebrew context, being "before the LORD" implies a direct relationship and accountability to God. This phrase emphasizes the sacredness of Samuel's service and the divine approval of his actions. It reminds believers of the importance of living and serving with an awareness of God's presence.

a boy
The Hebrew word "נַעַר" (na'ar) refers to a young boy or lad. This highlights Samuel's youth and innocence, yet he is already engaged in significant religious duties. His youthfulness serves as a reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of age, for His purposes. It also speaks to the potential for spiritual growth and development from a young age when one is dedicated to God.

wearing a linen ephod
The "linen ephod" is a priestly garment, typically associated with the Levitical priesthood. The Hebrew word "אֵפוֹד" (ephod) refers to a sacred vestment worn by priests. Samuel wearing an ephod signifies his special role and consecration to God's service, even though he was not from the priestly tribe of Levi. This garment symbolizes purity, service, and dedication to God. It also foreshadows Samuel's unique position as a bridge between the priestly and prophetic roles in Israel.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Samuel
A young boy dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, serving in the tabernacle under the priest Eli. Samuel is a significant figure in Israel's history, known for his prophetic ministry and leadership.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, before whom Samuel ministered. This highlights the personal and relational aspect of Samuel's service.

3. Linen Ephod
A priestly garment worn by Samuel, symbolizing his role and dedication to serving God. The ephod was typically worn by priests, indicating Samuel's special status even as a child.

4. Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where Samuel served. It was the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

5. Eli
The high priest at the time, under whose guidance Samuel ministered. Eli's own sons were corrupt, contrasting with Samuel's faithful service.
Teaching Points
Faithful Service Begins Early
Samuel's ministry as a young boy reminds us that age is not a barrier to serving God. We should encourage and nurture the spiritual gifts and callings of young people in our communities.

Symbolism of the Ephod
The linen ephod represents purity and dedication. As believers, we are called to "put on" Christ and live lives that reflect His holiness and service.

Contrasting Faithfulness
Samuel's faithful service stands in stark contrast to the corruption of Eli's sons. This serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and faithfulness in our walk with God.

God's Presence in Service
Serving "before the LORD" emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's presence in our daily acts of service. Our work should be done as unto the Lord, with reverence and dedication.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Samuel's early dedication to the Lord challenge our views on involving children and youth in ministry today?

2. In what ways can we "wear our ephod" in our daily lives, symbolizing our dedication and service to God?

3. How does the contrast between Samuel and Eli's sons speak to the importance of godly character and integrity in leadership?

4. What can we learn from Samuel's example about serving faithfully in seemingly small or unnoticed roles?

5. How does understanding Jesus as our High Priest enhance our perspective on serving God and others?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Samuel 1:24-28
Describes Hannah's dedication of Samuel to the Lord, setting the stage for his service in the tabernacle.

Exodus 28:4-6
Details the garments of the priests, including the ephod, providing context for Samuel's attire and role.

1 Samuel 3:1-10
Chronicles Samuel's calling by God, emphasizing his role as a prophet and leader in Israel.

Hebrews 4:14-16
Connects the priestly role to Jesus as our High Priest, offering a New Testament perspective on service and intercession.
Reverence in WorshipJohn Henry Newman1 Samuel 2:18
A Child's MinistryHelen Plumptre.1 Samuel 2:18-19
A Coat for SamuelT. De Witt Talmage.1 Samuel 2:18-19
A Talk to MothersR. Collyer.1 Samuel 2:18-19
Childhood and ServiceJ. Parker, D. D.1 Samuel 2:18-19
Early PietyCanon Hutchings, M. A.1 Samuel 2:18-19
The Little CoatG. B. Ryley.1 Samuel 2:18-19
The Ministering ChildR. Steel.1 Samuel 2:18-19
People
Eli, Elkanah, Hannah, Hophni, Israelites, Pharaoh, Phinehas, Samuel
Places
Egypt, Ramah, Shiloh
Topics
Boy, Child, Dressed, Ephod, Girded, Girt, Linen, Lord's, Ministered, Ministering, Presence, Samuel, Wearing, Youth
Dictionary of Bible Themes
1 Samuel 2:18

     5392   linen
     5669   children, examples
     5876   helpfulness
     7352   ephod
     7942   ministry

1 Samuel 2:17-18

     5746   youth

Library
The Child Prophet
'And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision. 2. And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; 8. And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep; 4. That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. 5. And he ran onto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Reverence in Worship.
"Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a linen ephod."--1 Samuel ii. 18. Samuel, viewed in his place in sacred history, that is, in the course of events which connect Moses with Christ, appears as a great ruler and teacher of his people; this is his prominent character. He was the first of the prophets; yet, when we read the sacred narrative itself, in which his life is set before us, I suppose those passages are the more striking and impressive which represent him, in
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VIII

The Knowledge of God
'The Lord is a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.' I Sam 2:2. Glorious things are spoken of God; he transcends our thoughts, and the praises of angels. God's glory lies chiefly in his attributes, which are the several beams by which the divine nature shines forth. Among other of his orient excellencies, this is not the least, The Lord is a God of knowledge; or as the Hebrew word is, A God of knowledges.' Through the bright mirror of his own essence, he has a full idea and cognisance
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Though the Fore-Mentioned Eternal Moral Obligations
are incumbent indeed on all rational creatures, antecedent to any respect of particular reward or punishment, yet they must certainly and necessarily be attended with rewards and punishments: Because the same reasons, which prove God himself to be necessarily just and good, and the rules of justice, equity, and goodness, to be his unalterable will, law, and command, to all created beings; prove also that he cannot but be pleased with and approve such creatures as imitate and obey him by observing
Samuel Clarke—A Discourse Concerning the Being and Attributes of God

Letter xxix. To Marcella.
An explanation of the Hebrew words Ephod bad (1 Sam. ii. 18) and Teraphim (Judges xvii. 5). Written at Rome to Marcella, also at Rome a.d. 384.
St. Jerome—The Principal Works of St. Jerome

A Private Enquiry
"What is the thing that the Lord hath said unto thee?"--1 Samuel 3:17. THE Lord would not speak directly to Eli, although he was the High Priest. In ordinary circumstances it would have been so; but Eli had grieved the Lord, and thus had lost his honorable standing. God had not cast him off; but he viewed him with such displeasure that he would only speak to him through another person: even as great kings, if they are offended with their courtiers, send them messages by other hands. The Lord sent,
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 37: 1891

Appendix xix. On Eternal Punishment, According to the Rabbis and the New Testament
THE Parables of the Ten Virgins' and of the Unfaithful Servant' close with a Discourse on the Last Things,' the final Judgment, and the fate of those Christ's Righ Hand and at His Left (St. Matt. xxv. 31-46). This final Judgment by our Lord forms a fundamental article in the Creed of the Church. It is the Christ Who comes, accompanied by the Angelic Host, and sits down on the throne of His Glory, when all nations are gathered before Him. Then the final separation is made, and joy or sorrow awarded
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Covenanting a Privilege of Believers.
Whatever attainment is made by any as distinguished from the wicked, or whatever gracious benefit is enjoyed, is a spiritual privilege. Adoption into the family of God is of this character. "He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power (margin, or, the right; or, privilege) to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name."[617] And every co-ordinate benefit is essentially so likewise. The evidence besides, that Covenanting
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

The Mystery
Of the Woman dwelling in the Wilderness. The woman delivered of a child, when the dragon was overcome, from thenceforth dwelt in the wilderness, by which is figured the state of the Church, liberated from Pagan tyranny, to the time of the seventh trumpet, and the second Advent of Christ, by the type, not of a latent, invisible, but, as it were, an intermediate condition, like that of the lsraelitish Church journeying in the wilderness, from its departure from Egypt, to its entrance into the land
Joseph Mede—A Key to the Apocalypse

Sixth Day. Holiness and Glory.
Who is like unto Thee, O Lord! among the gods? Who is like unto Thee, glorious in holiness, Fearful in praises, doing wonders? Thou in Thy mercy hast led Thy people which Thou hast redeemed: Thou hast guided them in Thy strength to the habitation of Thy holiness ... The holy place, O Lord, which Thy hands have established.' --Ex. xv. 11-17. In these words we have another step in advance in the revelation of Holiness. We have here for the first time Holiness predicated of God Himself. He
Andrew Murray—Holy in Christ

Sanctification.
VI. Objections answered. I will consider those passages of scripture which are by some supposed to contradict the doctrine we have been considering. 1 Kings viii. 46: "If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near," etc. On this passage, I remark:-- 1. That this sentiment in nearly the same language, is repeated in 2 Chron. vi. 26, and in Eccl.
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity.
Text: Ephesians 4, 1-6. 1 I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beseech you to walk worthily of the calling wherewith ye were called, 2 with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; 3 giving diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as also ye were called in one hope of your calling; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all, and through all, and in all.
Martin Luther—Epistle Sermons, Vol. III

The Sun Rising Upon a Dark World
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon then hath the light shined. C ontrasts are suited to illustrate and strengthen the impression of each other. The happiness of those, who by faith in MESSIAH, are brought into a state of peace, liberty, and comfort, is greatly enhanced and heightened by the consideration of that previous state of misery in which they once lived, and of the greater misery to which they were justly exposed.
John Newton—Messiah Vol. 1

Entire Sanctification
By Dr. Adam Clarke The word "sanctify" has two meanings. 1. It signifies to consecrate, to separate from earth and common use, and to devote or dedicate to God and his service. 2. It signifies to make holy or pure. Many talk much, and indeed well, of what Christ has done for us: but how little is spoken of what he is to do in us! and yet all that he has done for us is in reference to what he is to do in us. He was incarnated, suffered, died, and rose again from the dead; ascended to heaven, and there
Adam Clarke—Entire Sanctification

The Holiness of God
The next attribute is God's holiness. Exod 15:51. Glorious in holiness.' Holiness is the most sparkling jewel of his crown; it is the name by which God is known. Psa 111:1. Holy and reverend is his name.' He is the holy One.' Job 6:60. Seraphims cry, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of his glory.' Isa 6:6. His power makes him mighty, his holiness makes him glorious. God's holiness consists in his perfect love of righteousness, and abhorrence of evil. Of purer eyes than
Thomas Watson—A Body of Divinity

Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel
In order accurately to understand the position of woman in Israel, it is only necessary carefully to peruse the New Testament. The picture of social life there presented gives a full view of the place which she held in private and in public life. Here we do not find that separation, so common among Orientals at all times, but a woman mingles freely with others both at home and abroad. So far from suffering under social inferiority, she takes influential and often leading part in all movements, specially
Alfred Edersheim—Sketches of Jewish Social Life

Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire from 745 to 722 B. C.
TIGLATH-PILESER III. AND THE ORGANISATION OF THE ASSYRIAN EMPIRE FROM 745 to 722 B.C. FAILURE OF URARTU AND RE-CONQUEST Of SYRIA--EGYPT AGAIN UNITED UNDER ETHIOPIAN AUSPICES--PIONKHI--THE DOWNFALL OF DAMASCUS, OF BABYLON, AND OF ISRAEL. Assyria and its neighbours at the accession of Tiglath-pileser III.: progress of the Aramaeans in the basin of the Middle Tigris--Urartu and its expansion into the north of Syria--Damascus and Israel--Vengeance of Israel on Damascus--Jeroboam II.--Civilisation
G. Maspero—History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 7

Samuel
Alike from the literary and the historical point of view, the book[1] of Samuel stands midway between the book of Judges and the book of Kings. As we have already seen, the Deuteronomic book of Judges in all probability ran into Samuel and ended in ch. xii.; while the story of David, begun in Samuel, embraces the first two chapters of the first book of Kings. The book of Samuel is not very happily named, as much of it is devoted to Saul and the greater part to David; yet it is not altogether inappropriate,
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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