1 Samuel 9:23

And Samuel said to the cook, "Bring the portion I gave you and told you to set aside."

Study Bible

And Samuel said to the cook,
Samuel, the last judge of Israel and a prophet, plays a significant role in the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy. His authority is evident as he directs the cook, indicating his leadership and the respect he commands. This moment occurs during Saul's anointing, highlighting Samuel's role in God's plan for Israel. The presence of a cook suggests a formal meal, possibly a sacrificial feast, which was common in Israelite culture for significant religious and social events.

“Bring the portion I gave you
The portion refers to a specific part of the sacrificial meal, often reserved for honored guests. In ancient Israel, certain parts of the sacrifice were set aside for priests or special individuals, signifying honor and divine favor. This act foreshadows Saul's future role as king, as he is being treated with the respect due to royalty. The act of setting aside a portion also reflects the practice of offering the best to God and His chosen ones, a theme seen throughout the Old Testament.

and told you to set aside.”
Samuel's prior instruction to set aside the portion indicates his foreknowledge and divine insight into Saul's future. This premeditated action underscores the prophetic nature of Samuel's ministry and God's sovereignty in orchestrating events. The setting aside of the portion can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the chosen and anointed one, set apart for a divine purpose. This moment also connects to the broader biblical theme of God preparing and providing for His people, as seen in the provision of manna in the wilderness and the feeding of the 5,000 in the New Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel plays a crucial role in the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He is the one who anoints Saul as the first king of Israel.

2. Saul
The son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, Saul is chosen by God to be the first king of Israel. At this point in the account, he is unaware of his future role.

3. The Cook
An unnamed servant who follows Samuel's instructions to set aside a special portion of food for Saul, indicating Saul's future significance.

4. Ramah
The place where Samuel resides and where this event takes place. It serves as a center for Samuel's prophetic ministry.

5. The Meal
A ceremonial meal that signifies honor and the setting apart of Saul for a special purpose, foreshadowing his anointing as king.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment
God orchestrates events and uses His servants to prepare us for His purposes, as seen in Samuel's preparation for Saul.

Symbolism of the Meal
The special portion signifies God's favor and calling. We should be attentive to the ways God sets us apart for His work.

Humility and Honor
Saul's initial humility is a reminder that God often elevates those who do not seek their own honor.

Obedience to God's Instructions
The cook's obedience to Samuel's instructions reflects the importance of following God's guidance in our lives.

Preparation for Leadership
God prepares us for leadership roles in His timing, often through unexpected means and situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the setting aside of a special portion for Saul foreshadow his future role as king, and what does this teach us about God's preparation in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand in orchestrating events in our lives, similar to how He prepared Saul for leadership?

3. How does the concept of humility and being honored by God, as seen in Saul's account, relate to Jesus' teaching in Luke 14:8-11?

4. What are some practical ways we can be obedient to God's instructions, as demonstrated by the cook's actions in this passage?

5. Reflect on a time when you were set apart for a specific purpose by God. How did that experience prepare you for future responsibilities or leadership roles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:1
This verse describes Samuel anointing Saul as king, fulfilling the foreshadowing of the special portion set aside for him.

Genesis 43:34
Joseph gives Benjamin a portion five times larger than his brothers, symbolizing favor and future significance, similar to Saul's special portion.

Luke 14:8-11
Jesus teaches about humility and being honored in the presence of others, which parallels Saul's unexpected honor at the meal.