1 Samuel 9:27

As they were going down to the edge of the city, Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant to go on ahead of us, but you stay for a while, and I will reveal to you the word of God." So the servant went on.

Study Bible

As they were going down to the edge of the city
This phrase sets the scene for a significant moment in the narrative. The city referred to is likely Ramah, where Samuel resided. The "edge of the city" suggests a private setting, away from the hustle and bustle, suitable for a prophetic revelation. In biblical times, city gates and edges were often places of decision-making and significant encounters (Ruth 4:1, Proverbs 31:23).

Samuel said to Saul
Samuel, the last judge of Israel and a prophet, plays a pivotal role in transitioning Israel from a theocracy to a monarchy. His authority and spiritual insight are crucial in guiding Saul, who is about to be anointed as the first king of Israel. This interaction highlights the divine appointment and guidance that Saul is receiving through Samuel.

Tell the servant to go on ahead of us
This instruction indicates the need for privacy and confidentiality. In ancient Near Eastern culture, servants were often present, but significant matters, especially those involving divine revelation, required discretion. This separation underscores the importance of the message Samuel is about to deliver.

but you stay for a while
Samuel's request for Saul to stay signifies the importance of the forthcoming revelation. It emphasizes Saul's role in God's plan and the need for him to be attentive and receptive. This moment marks a turning point in Saul's life, as he is about to receive a divine commission.

and I will reveal to you the word of God
The "word of God" here refers to a specific prophetic message concerning Saul's future. In the Old Testament, prophets were God's mouthpieces, delivering His will and guidance (Amos 3:7). This revelation is crucial as it sets the stage for Saul's anointing and the establishment of the monarchy in Israel.

So the servant went on
The servant's departure ensures that the conversation between Samuel and Saul remains private. This act of obedience also reflects the cultural norms of the time, where servants followed the instructions of their masters without question. The servant's absence allows for an undistracted and focused communication of God's message to Saul.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel is a pivotal figure in the transition from the period of judges to the establishment of the monarchy. He is known for his obedience to God and his role in anointing the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

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, Saul is unaware of his future role as king.

3. The Servant
Saul's servant accompanies him on his journey to find his father's lost donkeys. The servant plays a minor role but is obedient to Saul's instructions.

4. The City
The specific city is not named in this verse, but it is the location where Samuel and Saul meet. This meeting is significant as it marks the beginning of Saul's journey to kingship.

5. The Message from God
This refers to the divine revelation that Samuel is about to impart to Saul, which will change the course of Saul's life and the history of Israel.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment
God orchestrates events and meetings for His purposes. Just as Saul's encounter with Samuel was divinely appointed, we should be attentive to God's guidance in our lives.

Obedience to God's Word
Samuel's role as a prophet highlights the importance of listening to and obeying God's word. We should seek to hear God's voice through Scripture and be obedient to His instructions.

Preparation for Leadership
Saul's anointing as king reminds us that God prepares and calls individuals for leadership roles. We should be open to God's calling and prepare ourselves for the responsibilities He may entrust to us.

The Role of Servants
The servant's obedience to Saul's command reflects the importance of humility and service. In our lives, we should be willing to serve others and follow godly leadership.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the interaction between Samuel and Saul in 1 Samuel 9:27 demonstrate God's sovereignty in orchestrating events? Can you think of a time when you experienced a "divine appointment"?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are attentive to God's messages in our lives, similar to how Saul was attentive to Samuel's message?

3. How does the concept of divine calling and preparation for leadership in Saul's life apply to our personal and professional lives today?

4. Reflect on the role of the servant in this passage. How can we cultivate a heart of service and obedience in our daily interactions?

5. Consider the broader biblical account of Saul's kingship. What lessons can we learn from Saul's life about the importance of obedience and humility before God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:1
This verse follows the account where Samuel anoints Saul as king, fulfilling the message from God mentioned in 1 Samuel 9:27.

Acts 13:21
This New Testament reference recounts the history of Israel, mentioning Saul as the first king, connecting the Old Testament account to the broader biblical account.

Proverbs 3:5-6
These verses emphasize trusting in the Lord and acknowledging Him, which is relevant to Saul's need to trust God's plan revealed through Samuel.