1 Samuel 9:19

"I am the seer," Samuel replied. "Go up before me to the high place, for you shall eat with me today. And when I send you off in the morning, I will tell you all that is in your heart.

Study Bible

I am the seer
The term "seer" in Hebrew is "ro'eh," which refers to one who perceives or sees, particularly in a prophetic sense. In ancient Israel, a seer was someone who had the ability to receive divine revelations and communicate God's will to the people. Samuel, as a seer, was recognized as a spiritual leader and a conduit for God's messages. This role underscores the importance of divine guidance in the lives of the Israelites and highlights Samuel's authority and connection to God.

Samuel replied
Samuel's response is direct and authoritative, reflecting his role as a judge and prophet in Israel. His reply signifies the beginning of a significant encounter between him and Saul, who would later become the first king of Israel. Samuel's presence and words are pivotal in the unfolding of God's plan for Israel's monarchy.

Go up before me to the high place
The "high place" refers to a location of worship, often situated on elevated ground. In ancient Israel, high places were commonly used for sacrifices and religious ceremonies before the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. Samuel's instruction to go up to the high place indicates a call to participate in a sacred event, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the meeting and the divine orchestration of Saul's journey.

for today you are to eat with me
Sharing a meal in the ancient Near Eastern culture was a sign of fellowship and covenant. By inviting Saul to eat with him, Samuel is extending an offer of hospitality and establishing a bond. This meal is not merely a social event but a divinely appointed occasion that marks the beginning of Saul's anointing as king. It signifies God's provision and the unfolding of His plan for Saul's life.

and in the morning I will send you on your way
Samuel's promise to send Saul on his way the next morning indicates a temporary pause in Saul's journey, allowing for divine instruction and preparation. This pause is crucial for Saul to receive guidance and assurance from God through Samuel. It reflects the biblical principle of waiting on God's timing and the importance of seeking His direction before proceeding with one's plans.

and will tell you all that is in your heart
This phrase suggests that Samuel, through divine insight, will reveal God's purpose and calling for Saul. It implies that God knows the innermost thoughts and desires of individuals and that He has a specific plan for each person. Samuel's role as a seer is to communicate this divine knowledge, providing Saul with clarity and confirmation of his future role as king. This assurance from God is meant to strengthen Saul's faith and resolve as he steps into his new leadership position.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and the last judge of Israel, Samuel plays a crucial role in the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He is God's chosen instrument to anoint the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

2. Saul
The son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, Saul is searching for his father's lost donkeys when he encounters Samuel. This meeting marks the beginning of his journey to becoming the first king of Israel.

3. The High Place
A location often used for worship and sacrifices in ancient Israel. In this context, it is where Samuel invites Saul to join him for a meal, signifying a moment of divine appointment and revelation.

4. The Seer
An older term for a prophet, indicating one who sees or perceives divine messages. Samuel identifies himself as the seer, emphasizing his role as God's spokesperson.

5. The Meal
Sharing a meal in the high place is significant, symbolizing fellowship and the impartation of God's plans. It is a precursor to the revelation Samuel will give Saul about his future.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointments
God orchestrates meetings and events in our lives for His purposes. Like Saul, we may encounter divine appointments that lead to significant changes in our lives.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets serve as God's messengers, providing guidance and revelation. We should seek to understand and respect the role of spiritual leaders in our lives.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's journey to kingship begins with obedience and humility. God often prepares us for leadership through unexpected paths and experiences.

The Importance of Fellowship
Sharing a meal in the high place signifies fellowship and unity. As believers, we should value and seek opportunities for fellowship with others in the faith.

Listening to God's Voice
Samuel's role as a seer reminds us of the importance of listening to God's voice and being open to His guidance in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the encounter between Samuel and Saul illustrate the concept of divine appointments in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we recognize and respect the role of spiritual leaders, similar to how Saul respected Samuel as a seer?

3. How does Saul's journey to the high place with Samuel prepare him for his future role as king, and what can we learn from this about preparation for leadership?

4. What significance does the shared meal in the high place have for us today in terms of fellowship and community within the church?

5. How can we cultivate a heart that is open to hearing and responding to God's voice, as demonstrated by Samuel's role as a prophet?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 3
Samuel's calling as a prophet is detailed, establishing his credibility and divine appointment as a seer.

1 Samuel 10
The anointing of Saul as king, which follows this encounter, fulfills the promise of revelation and guidance given by Samuel.

Acts 13
Paul references Samuel's role in the history of Israel, highlighting the transition from judges to kings and the importance of divine guidance in leadership.