1 Samuel 16:11

And Samuel asked him, "Are these all the sons you have?" "There is still the youngest," Jesse replied, "but he is tending the sheep." "Send for him," Samuel replied. "For we will not sit down to eat until he arrives."

Study Bible

And Samuel asked him, “Are these all the sons you have?”
Samuel, the last judge and a prophet of Israel, is on a mission from God to anoint the next king of Israel. This question highlights the divine guidance Samuel receives, as he discerns that none of Jesse's present sons are chosen by God. It underscores the biblical theme that God's choices often defy human expectations, as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:27, where God chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise.

“There is still the youngest,” Jesse replied,
David, the youngest son, is not initially considered by his father, Jesse, for the anointing. This reflects the cultural context where the eldest sons were typically given precedence. However, God's selection of David emphasizes the biblical principle that God looks at the heart rather than outward appearances, as later stated in 1 Samuel 16:7.

“but he is tending the sheep.”
David's role as a shepherd is significant, as it foreshadows his future role as the shepherd-king of Israel. Shepherding was a common occupation in ancient Israel, requiring diligence and care, qualities that David would later exhibit as king. This imagery is also a type of Christ, who is referred to as the Good Shepherd in John 10:11.

“Send for him,” Samuel replied.
Samuel's insistence on seeing David demonstrates obedience to God's direction. It also signifies the importance of divine timing and selection, as God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways. This moment marks the beginning of David's journey from obscurity to prominence.

“For we will not sit down to eat until he arrives.”
This statement underscores the urgency and importance of the occasion. In ancient Near Eastern culture, meals were significant social events, often marking covenantal or celebratory moments. The delay of the meal until David's arrival highlights the honor and divine favor being bestowed upon him, setting the stage for his anointing as king.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet of the Lord, tasked with anointing the next king of Israel. He is obedient to God's direction and plays a crucial role in the transition of leadership from Saul to David.

2. Jesse
The father of David, residing in Bethlehem. He presents his sons to Samuel, unaware that God has chosen his youngest, David, for a significant purpose.

3. David
The youngest son of Jesse, initially overlooked and tending sheep. He is God's chosen one to be anointed as the future king of Israel.

4. Bethlehem
The town where Jesse and his family live. It is significant as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ.

5. The Anointing Event
A pivotal moment where God directs Samuel to anoint David, setting the stage for David's future as king.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God often chooses the least likely candidates to fulfill His purposes, demonstrating His sovereignty and wisdom beyond human understanding.

The Value of Humility and Service
David's role as a shepherd reflects humility and service, qualities that God values and uses for His glory.

Obedience to God's Call
Samuel's obedience in seeking out David, despite appearances, teaches us the importance of following God's direction even when it defies human logic.

God Sees the Heart
While humans often judge by outward appearances, God looks at the heart. This challenges us to cultivate inner character and integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of David's anointing challenge our perceptions of leadership and qualifications?

2. In what ways can we be more attentive to God's calling in our lives, even if it seems unexpected or unconventional?

3. How does David's humble beginning as a shepherd encourage us in our current roles or positions?

4. What are some practical ways we can develop a heart that aligns with God's, as seen in David's life?

5. How can we apply the principle of looking beyond appearances in our relationships and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 78:70-72
This passage reflects on God's choice of David, highlighting his humble beginnings as a shepherd and his rise to shepherd God's people, Israel.

Acts 13:22
This verse in the New Testament references David as a man after God's own heart, chosen to fulfill God's purposes.

Matthew 1:1
The genealogy of Jesus Christ begins with David, emphasizing his importance in the lineage of the Messiah.