1 Samuel 9:15

Now on the day before Saul's arrival, the LORD had revealed to Samuel,

Study Bible

Now on the day before Saul’s arrival
This phrase sets the timing of the events, indicating divine orchestration. The timing is significant as it shows God's providence in the unfolding of Israel's monarchy. Saul's arrival was not coincidental but part of a divine plan. This reflects the biblical theme that God is sovereign over time and events, as seen in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which speaks of a time for every purpose under heaven.

the LORD had revealed to Samuel
The phrase highlights the role of divine revelation in guiding the prophet Samuel. Samuel, as a prophet, was the intermediary between God and the people of Israel. This revelation underscores the importance of prophetic insight in Israel's history, as seen in Amos 3:7, which states that God does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets. The revelation to Samuel also prefigures the role of Jesus Christ as the ultimate prophet who reveals God's will to humanity (Hebrews 1:1-2).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is actively involved in the lives of His people and communicates His will through prophets.

2. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, who serves as a mediator between God and the people. He is instrumental in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy.

3. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is about to be anointed as the first king of Israel. His arrival marks a significant turning point in Israel's history.

4. Revelation to Samuel
The divine communication from God to Samuel, indicating His sovereign choice and plan for Israel's leadership.

5. The Day Before Saul’s Arrival
A specific time frame indicating God's foreknowledge and preparation in the unfolding of His plan.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
God orchestrates events according to His perfect timing and purpose. Trust in His timing, even when it is not immediately clear to us.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets serve as God's messengers, revealing His will to His people. We should value and heed the guidance of those who faithfully communicate God's Word.

Divine Preparation
God prepares His people for the roles He has for them, often long before they are aware of it. Reflect on how God might be preparing you for future service.

God's Foreknowledge
God's knowledge of future events assures us of His control over history. This should encourage us to rest in His plans and purposes.

Leadership in God's Kingdom
God chooses leaders according to His criteria, not human standards. Consider how God might be calling you to lead in your community or church.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in 1 Samuel 9:15 impact your view of current events in your life?

2. In what ways can you discern and respond to God's guidance, similar to how Samuel received revelation from the Lord?

3. Reflect on a time when you realized God had been preparing you for a specific role or task. How did that experience shape your faith?

4. How can the concept of divine preparation and foreknowledge, as seen in 1 Samuel 9:15, encourage you in times of uncertainty?

5. Considering the role of leadership in God's kingdom, how can you apply the principles of godly leadership in your own life and community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 3
The calling of Samuel as a prophet, establishing his role as God's spokesperson.

Deuteronomy 17
The guidelines for a king in Israel, showing God's forethought in establishing a monarchy.

Jeremiah 1
The concept of God knowing and appointing individuals for specific purposes before they are aware of it themselves.

Acts 9
The conversion of Saul (Paul), illustrating God's sovereign choice and preparation in calling individuals for His purposes.