◄ 1 Samuel 3 ►
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The LORD Calls Samuel 1And the boy Samuel ministered to the LORD before Eli. Now in those days the word of the LORD was rare, and visions were scarce. 2And at that time Eli, whose eyesight had grown so dim that he could not see, was lying in his room. 3Before the lamp of God had gone out, Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was located. 4Then the LORD called to Samuel, and he answered, “Here I am.” 5He ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” “I did not call,” Eli replied. “Go back and lie down.” So he went and lay down. 6Once again the LORD called, “Samuel!” So Samuel got up, went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” “My son, I did not call,” Eli replied. “Go back and lie down.” 7Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, because the word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him. 8Once again, for the third time, the LORD called to Samuel. He got up, went to Eli, and said, “Here I am, for you have called me.” Then Eli realized that it was the LORD who was calling the boy. 9“Go and lie down,” he said to Samuel, “and if He calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. 10Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as before, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” 11Then the LORD said to Samuel, “I am about to do something in Israel at which the ears of all who hear it will tingle. 12On that day I will carry out against Eli everything I have spoken about his house, from beginning to end. 13I told him that I would judge his house forever for the iniquity of which he knows, because his sons blasphemed Goda and he did not restrain them. 14Therefore I have sworn to the house of Eli, ‘The iniquity of Eli’s house shall never be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.’” Samuel Shares the Vision 15Samuel lay down until the morning; then he opened the doors of the house of the LORD. He was afraid to tell Eli the vision, 16but Eli called to him and said, “Samuel, my son.” “Here I am,” answered Samuel. 17“What was the message He gave you?” Eli asked. “Do not hide it from me. May God punish you, and ever so severely, if you hide from me anything He said to you.” 18So Samuel told him everything and did not hide a thing from him. “He is the LORD,” replied Eli. “Let Him do what is good in His eyes.” 19And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground. 20So all Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the LORD. 21And the LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, because there He revealed Himself to Samuel by His word. Footnotes: 13 a LXX; Hebrew made themselves contemptible Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Samuel 3 Summary The LORD Calls Samuel Verses 1–3 – A Quiet Night in Shiloh Young Samuel ministers under Eli while “the word of the LORD was rare” and visions were infrequent. The lamp of God still burns, and Samuel lies near the ark—an expectant hush before a divine breakthrough. Verses 4–10 – The LORD Calls Samuel God calls Samuel by name three times; each time the boy runs to Eli, who finally realizes the call is from the LORD. At Eli’s direction, Samuel answers, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” Verses 11–14 – The Heavy Message The LORD announces judgment on Eli’s house “because his sons blasphemed God, and he did not restrain them.” Their sin will not be wiped away by sacrifice or offering. Verses 15–18 – Samuel Speaks the Truth Samuel fears to tell Eli, yet, urged by the priest, reports everything. Eli, resigned, responds, “He is the LORD; let Him do what is good in His eyes.” Verses 19–21 – Samuel Confirmed as Prophet Samuel grows; the LORD is with him, and none of his words fall to the ground. From Dan to Beersheba all Israel knows Samuel is established as a trustworthy prophet. The LORD continues to appear in Shiloh and reveals Himself to Samuel by His word. The third chapter of 1 Samuel marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel. Here, we witness the divine calling of young Samuel, the last judge, who later becomes a renowned prophet in Israel. This chapter delves into the supernatural calling of God to Samuel and Eli's understanding and acceptance of God's judgment. Historical Setting: Shiloh at the Crossroads • Shiloh housed the tabernacle (Joshua 18:1), making it Israel’s spiritual center before Jerusalem. • Archaeological digs at Tel Shiloh reveal storage rooms, animal bones, and cultic vessels, matching the footprint of a long-standing worship site that could handle national gatherings. • Political instability marked the period of the judges (Judges 21:25). Samuel arrives as a bridge between tribal rule and future kingship. The Lamp of God (v 3) • Exodus 27:20–21 commands pure oil for the lamp, to burn “continually.” Its flickering predawn state pictures Israel’s dim spiritual condition. • Revelation 1:12–13 later uses lampstands to depict the church’s witness. Here, one faithful lamp—Samuel—will brighten the nation. Children Who Hear God’s Voice • Samuel is likely twelve or so, aligning with Jewish tradition for the transition to responsibility. • Proverbs 22:6 encourages training a child early; Samuel’s upbringing by Hannah and Eli shows two influences blending to form a listening heart. • Jesus welcomes childlike ears: “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matthew 11:15). Eli’s Failure to Correct (v 13) • Deuteronomy 21:18–21 lays out parental responsibility to confront rebellious sons. • Contrast: Phinehas of Numbers 25 zealously defended holiness; Eli’s sons, also named Hophni and Phinehas, defile sacrifices (1 Samuel 2:12–17). • Hebrews 12:6 affirms God disciplines those He loves; neglecting discipline invites judgment. Prophet in Training: From First Call to Lifelong Ministry Step 1: Recognition of God’s voice (vv 4–10) Step 2: Willing response—“Speak” (v 10) Step 3: Courage to relay hard truth (vv 15–18) Step 4: Steady growth validated by fulfilled words (vv 19–21; Deuteronomy 18:21–22) • Similar trajectories: Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3), Isaiah’s throne-room vision (Isaiah 6), Jeremiah’s youth (Jeremiah 1:6–8). “None of His Words Fell to the Ground” (v 19) • Figurative picture of arrows hitting every mark. • 2 Kings 20:4 shows Isaiah’s word fulfilled before he leaves the courtyard. • John 17:17—Jesus prays, “Your word is truth.” Samuel models a messenger whose speech mirrors God’s reliability. God Breaks the Silence • Amos 8:11 warns of a famine of hearing the words of the LORD; 1 Samuel 3 records the end of such a drought. • Psalm 74:9 laments, “We do not see our signs; there is no longer any prophet.” Samuel reverses that lament. Archaeological Notes on the Ark and Sanctuary • The Ark’s gold overlay and acacia wood (Exodus 25:10–22) match materials found in Late Bronze sites. • Nearby tombs, pottery, and burnt offerings unearthed at Shiloh confirm ritual activity suitable for national festivals (1 Samuel 1:3). Lessons on Listening • Quiet places matter—nighttime, near the ark (Psalm 4:4; Mark 1:35). • Guidance often repeats until understood (Job 33:14). • Mentors help discern the voice (Eli’s role). Titus 2 encourages older believers to guide the young in faith. Foreshadowing Future Transition • Samuel’s call signals the shift from priestly leadership (Eli) to prophetic (Samuel) and then royal (Saul, David). • Acts 3:24: “All the prophets from Samuel on… foretold these days,” linking Samuel to messianic expectation. Principles for Today 1. Spiritual drought can end with one attentive heart. 2. God’s message may confront sin before comfort. 3. Faithfulness in small, unseen tasks prepares for wider impact (Luke 16:10). 4. Genuine revelation aligns with God’s written word and proves true over time. Key Cross-References • Obedience: James 1:22 • Holiness of leadership: 1 Timothy 3:2–5 • Fearless truth-telling: Galatians 1:10 • Divine calling: Romans 11:29 Closing Thought In the hush of Shiloh, God spoke a single name, and history pivoted. When hearts grow still and lamps keep burning, the same whisper still awakens servants today. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 6:8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!' John 10:27 My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me. James 1:22 Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. Teaching Points The Rarity of God's Word In those days the word of the LORD was rare and visions were scarce (1 Samuel 3:1). This highlights the spiritual condition of Israel and the importance of being receptive to God's voice. Samuel's Service Samuel was ministering before the LORD under Eli, showing his dedication and faithfulness even as a young boy (1 Samuel 3:1). God's Call to Samuel God calls Samuel by name, demonstrating His personal and direct communication with those He chooses (1 Samuel 3:4). Eli's Guidance Eli, despite his own spiritual shortcomings, recognizes God's call to Samuel and instructs him on how to respond (1 Samuel 3:8-9). Samuel's Response Samuel responds with humility and readiness, saying, Speak, for Your servant is listening (1 Samuel 3:10). The Message of Judgment God entrusts Samuel with a difficult message concerning Eli's household, emphasizing the seriousness of God's word (1 Samuel 3:11-14). Samuel's Faithfulness Samuel faithfully delivers God's message to Eli, showing his obedience and courage (1 Samuel 3:18). Samuel's Establishment as a Prophet The LORD was with Samuel as he grew, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground (1 Samuel 3:19). This signifies God's endorsement of Samuel's prophetic ministry. Practical Applications Be Attentive to God's Voice Like Samuel, we should be ready to listen and respond when God speaks to us. Seek Godly Counsel Eli's guidance to Samuel reminds us of the importance of seeking wisdom from mature believers. Embrace God's Call with Humility Approach God's calling with a servant's heart, ready to say, Speak, for Your servant is listening. Deliver God's Message Faithfully Even when the message is difficult, we must be faithful in communicating God's truth. Cultivate a Relationship with God Regularly engage in prayer and Scripture reading to recognize and understand God's voice. People 1. Samuel Samuel is a young boy serving under Eli in the temple. He is dedicated to the Lord by his mother, Hannah, and is ministering before the Lord. In 1 Samuel 3, Samuel receives his first prophetic message from God. The Hebrew root of his name, שְׁמוּאֵל (Shemuel), can be interpreted as "heard by God" or "name of God." 2. Eli Eli is the high priest and judge of Israel at the time. He is responsible for mentoring Samuel in the temple. Eli is an elderly man who eventually realizes that God is calling Samuel. His name in Hebrew, עֵלִי (Eli), means "ascended" or "my God." 3. The LORD The LORD, or Yahweh, is the God of Israel who calls Samuel during the night. This is a significant moment as it marks the beginning of Samuel's role as a prophet. The Hebrew name for the LORD, יהוה (YHWH), is considered the sacred and ineffable name of God. Places 1. Shiloh Shiloh is the central location in 1 Samuel 3. It is where the tabernacle of the LORD is located, and where Samuel is serving under Eli. Shiloh was an important religious center for the Israelites during this period. The Hebrew root for Shiloh (שִׁלוֹ) can be associated with peace or tranquility, reflecting its role as a spiritual center. 2. The Temple of the LORD Although not a temple in the sense of the later Temple in Jerusalem, the "temple of the LORD" in this context refers to the tabernacle at Shiloh where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. This is where Samuel hears the voice of the LORD calling him. The Hebrew term used here is "הֵיכַל" (heikal), which can mean a large building or palace, indicating the significance of the tabernacle as a dwelling place of God. Events 1. The Boy Samuel Ministers Before the LORD Samuel, a young boy, is ministering before the LORD under Eli's guidance. The text notes that "the word of the LORD was rare in those days; visions were scarce" (1 Samuel 3:1). This sets the stage for the significance of the events to follow, highlighting a period of spiritual drought in Israel. 2. The LORD Calls Samuel One night, as Samuel is lying down in the temple of the LORD where the ark of God is, the LORD calls out to him. Samuel initially mistakes the voice for Eli's and runs to him, saying, "Here I am, for you called me" (1 Samuel 3:4-5). This happens three times, indicating Samuel's unfamiliarity with the voice of the LORD. 3. Eli Discerns the LORD's Call After the third time Samuel comes to Eli, Eli realizes that the LORD is calling the boy. He instructs Samuel to respond, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9). This moment marks a turning point, as Eli recognizes the divine nature of the call. 4. The LORD Reveals His Message to Samuel The LORD calls Samuel a fourth time, and Samuel responds as instructed. The LORD reveals a message of judgment against Eli's house, saying, "I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears of it tingle" (1 Samuel 3:11). This prophecy underscores the seriousness of Eli's sons' sins and the impending consequences. 5. Samuel Reluctantly Delivers the Message The next morning, Eli asks Samuel to share what the LORD has told him. Despite his fear, Samuel faithfully recounts the entire message. Eli accepts the judgment, saying, "He is the LORD. Let Him do what is good in His eyes" (1 Samuel 3:18). This response reflects Eli's resignation to the divine will. 6. Samuel's Role as a Prophet is Established As Samuel grows, the LORD is with him, and "He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19). This phrase indicates the reliability and authority of Samuel's prophetic ministry. All of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, recognizes Samuel as a confirmed prophet of the LORD. 7. The LORD Continues to Appear at Shiloh The chapter concludes with the LORD continuing to appear at Shiloh, revealing Himself to Samuel through His word. This ongoing revelation signifies a renewed communication between God and His people, with Samuel serving as the intermediary (1 Samuel 3:21). Lessons from 1 Samuel 3 1. The Importance of Listening to God In 1 Samuel 3, young Samuel learns the vital lesson of listening to God's voice. When God calls Samuel, he initially mistakes it for Eli's voice. This teaches us to be attentive and discerning, ready to hear God's call in our lives. As it says in 1 Samuel 3:10, "Then the LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, 'Samuel! Samuel!' Then Samuel said, 'Speak, for Your servant is listening.'" We, too, should be ready to respond with open hearts and minds. 2. God Speaks to the Willing Samuel's willingness to serve and listen sets him apart. God often chooses those who are open and ready to receive His word. This reminds us that our willingness to serve and listen can open doors to divine guidance. As we read in 1 Samuel 3:1, "In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions." Yet, God chose to speak to Samuel, a young boy with a willing heart. 3. Mentorship Matters Eli plays a crucial role in guiding Samuel to recognize God's voice. This highlights the importance of mentorship in our spiritual journey. Having someone to guide us can help us grow in faith and understanding. Eli's guidance in 1 Samuel 3:9, "Go and lie down, and if He calls you, say, 'Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening,'" shows the value of wise counsel. 4. God Calls the Young Samuel's story is a powerful reminder that God can call anyone, regardless of age. Young people are not exempt from God's plans and purposes. Samuel's youth did not hinder him from being chosen by God, as seen in 1 Samuel 3:4, "Then the LORD called Samuel." This encourages us to nurture and support the spiritual growth of the younger generation. 5. Obedience Leads to Revelation Samuel's obedience to God's call leads to greater revelation and understanding. When we obey God's voice, we open ourselves to deeper insights and blessings. In 1 Samuel 3:11, God reveals His plans to Samuel, saying, "See, I am about to do something in Israel that will make the ears of everyone who hears about it tingle." 6. The Weight of Responsibility With God's call comes responsibility. Samuel is entrusted with a difficult message for Eli, teaching us that following God may require courage and honesty. In 1 Samuel 3:18, Samuel faithfully delivers God's message, showing that we must be willing to carry out God's will, even when it's challenging. 7. God’s Word is Trustworthy Samuel's story reassures us that God's word is reliable and true. As Samuel grows, it becomes evident that God is with him, and none of his words fall to the ground. 1 Samuel 3:19 states, "The LORD was with Samuel as he grew up, and He let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground." This encourages us to trust in the steadfastness of God's promises. 8. God’s Presence is Transformative The presence of God in Samuel's life transforms him from a young boy into a respected prophet. This transformation is a testament to the power of God's presence in our lives. As we seek God, we, too, can experience transformation and growth. 1 Samuel 3:21 says, "The LORD continued to appear at Shiloh, and there He revealed Himself to Samuel through His word." 9. Faithfulness in Small Things Samuel's journey begins with simple acts of service in the temple. His faithfulness in small tasks prepares him for greater responsibilities. This reminds us that being faithful in the little things can lead to greater opportunities in God's kingdom. As Jesus said in Luke 16:10, "Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much." 10. God’s Plans are Unfolding The story of Samuel is a reminder that God’s plans are always unfolding, even when we cannot see them. Samuel's calling marks the beginning of a new chapter for Israel. In our lives, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes, orchestrating His perfect plan. As Jeremiah 29:11 assures us, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Topics 1. The Call of Samuel In 1 Samuel 3, the young Samuel is called by God while serving under Eli in the temple. This chapter marks a significant moment as God begins to speak directly to Samuel, indicating a transition in leadership and prophetic revelation. The Hebrew word for "call" (קָרָא, qara) emphasizes the personal and direct nature of God's communication with Samuel. 2. The Rarity of God's Word The chapter opens by noting that "the word of the LORD was rare in those days; visions were scarce" (1 Samuel 3:1). This scarcity highlights the spiritual condition of Israel at the time and sets the stage for the importance of Samuel's prophetic role. The Hebrew term for "rare" (יָקָר, yaqar) suggests something precious and infrequent. 3. Samuel's Initial Confusion Samuel initially mistakes God's voice for Eli's, demonstrating his inexperience in discerning divine communication. This part of the narrative underscores the need for spiritual mentorship and guidance, as Eli instructs Samuel on how to respond to God's call. 4. Eli's Recognition and Instruction Eli eventually realizes that it is the LORD calling Samuel and instructs him to respond with, "Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:9). Eli's guidance is crucial in helping Samuel understand and accept his role as a prophet. 5. God's Message to Samuel God reveals to Samuel a message of judgment against Eli's house due to the sins of his sons and Eli's failure to restrain them. This message is a pivotal moment, as it confirms Samuel's role as a prophet and the seriousness of God's justice. 6. Samuel's Reluctance and Eli's Encouragement After receiving the message, Samuel is hesitant to share it with Eli, but Eli encourages him to speak openly. This interaction highlights the tension between personal relationships and the responsibility of delivering God's truth. 7. Samuel's Prophetic Confirmation The chapter concludes with Samuel being established as a prophet of the LORD, as "the LORD was with him and let none of Samuel’s words fall to the ground" (1 Samuel 3:19). This affirmation of Samuel's prophetic authority is crucial for his future leadership in Israel. 8. The Widespread Recognition of Samuel's Role The chapter ends with the acknowledgment that all of Israel, from Dan to Beersheba, recognized Samuel as a prophet of the LORD. This widespread recognition signifies the beginning of a new era in Israel's spiritual leadership. Themes 1. Divine Revelation In 1 Samuel 3, the theme of divine revelation is central as God communicates directly with Samuel. The chapter begins with, "In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions" (1 Samuel 3:1). This highlights the scarcity of direct communication from God during that period, making Samuel's experience significant. The Hebrew word for "word" (דָּבָר, ^dabar^) emphasizes the importance of God's message being conveyed. 2. Calling and Response The narrative focuses on God's calling of Samuel and his response. Samuel hears his name called multiple times and eventually responds with, "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). This theme underscores the importance of being attentive and responsive to God's call. The Hebrew root for "listen" (שָׁמַע, ^shama^) implies not just hearing but obeying and understanding. 3. Prophetic Office Samuel's calling marks the beginning of his role as a prophet. The Lord reveals to Samuel the future judgment on Eli's house, establishing Samuel as a trustworthy prophet. "And all Israel from Dan to Beersheba knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the LORD" (1 Samuel 3:20). The Hebrew term for "prophet" (נָבִיא, ^navi^) indicates one who is a spokesperson for God. 4. Judgment and Accountability The theme of judgment is evident as God reveals to Samuel the impending judgment on Eli's family due to their iniquity. "For I told him that I would judge his house forever for the iniquity he knew about" (1 Samuel 3:13). This highlights the seriousness of accountability before God, especially for those in leadership. 5. Transition of Leadership The chapter signifies a transition in spiritual leadership from Eli to Samuel. Eli's inability to perceive God's voice contrasts with Samuel's receptiveness, indicating a shift in divine favor and leadership. This transition is crucial for the unfolding narrative of Israel's history. 6. Faithfulness and Obedience Samuel's faithfulness and obedience to God's word are emphasized throughout the chapter. Despite the difficult message he must deliver to Eli, Samuel remains obedient. "So Samuel told him everything and hid nothing from him" (1 Samuel 3:18). This theme underscores the importance of integrity and faithfulness in fulfilling God's commands. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is open and attentive to God's voice. Ask for wisdom and discernment to recognize God's calling in your life. Seek courage and faithfulness to deliver God's message, even when it is challenging. Pray for spiritual mentors who can guide you in your walk with God. Thank God for His faithfulness in speaking to His people and guiding them according to His will. Answering Tough Questions 1. 1 Samuel 3:1 – How can “the word of the Lord” be rare when earlier biblical accounts suggest ongoing divine revelations? 2. 1 Samuel 3:4 – Is there any historical or scientific evidence that supports an audible, personal call from a deity to an individual? 3. 1 Samuel 3:7 – How could a child with no prior knowledge of God accurately identify and respond to a supernatural voice? 4. 1 Samuel 3:13 – Why would God hold Eli accountable for his sons’ misconduct rather than act directly to prevent their corruption? 5. 1 Samuel 3 – Is there any archaeological support for Samuel’s early prophetic ministry, or is it solely dependent on this biblical narrative? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. In today's secular world, how can you distinguish the voice of God from other voices? 2. Reflect on a time when you felt God was speaking to you. How did you respond? 3. Samuel served faithfully before he understood God's voice. What does this say about the importance of faithfulness in our daily tasks? 4. How does Eli's reaction to the impending judgment model acceptance of God's will? How can we apply this acceptance in our lives? 5. What consequences do Eli and his family face due to their disobedience? How does this reinforce the importance of personal and family responsibility in our spiritual lives? 6. How does God's selection of young Samuel for a prophetic role challenge our understanding of leadership and capability? 7. How does God prepare Samuel for the task he is given? How does God prepare us for the tasks He sets before us? 8. In what ways does Samuel's growth and establishment as a prophet inspire you in your spiritual journey? 9. How can we cultivate a faithful and humble response to God's call, like Samuel? 10. How would you handle a situation where you had to relay an uncomfortable truth, as Samuel did to Eli? 11. Eli mentored Samuel, yet his own sons were disobedient. What does this tell us about influence and personal choice in spiritual matters? 12. What can we learn from the rarity of visions in those times, and how might that apply to our perception of God's voice today? 13. How does the certainty of God's judgment affect the way you live your life? 14. How does the transition of leadership from Eli to Samuel reflect on God's sovereignty? 15. How can we make sure that none of God's words "fall to the ground" in our lives? 16. Eli recognized his shortcomings and accepted God's judgment. How do you respond when confronted with your mistakes or sins? 17. How can we foster a strong spiritual foundation for future generations, as seen in Samuel's life? 18. What steps can we take to ensure that we are not just hearing, but truly listening to God's call? 19. In what ways does Samuel's calling challenge your understanding of God's purpose for your life? 20. How does Samuel's relationship with God inspire you to cultivate your personal relationship with God? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions