Samuel: God’s Prophet

Text: 1 Samuel

Thesis: To note Samuel’s faithfulness to God so that we today may emulate it.

Introduction:

(1)    Samuel’s name means “name of God.”

(2)    He was the son of Elkanah and Hannah.

(a)    Hannah’s womb was barren and she prayed for a child whom she promised to dedicate to God’s service.

(b)    God answered her prayer and she kept her promise.

(c)    Therefore, Samuel grew up in the temple being raised by Eli the prophet.

(3)    He was the last of the judges as he served as prophet, priest, and judge together.

(4)    Let us note his life as God’s prophet:

Discussion:

I.                   He responded to God’s call:

A.    1 Sam. 3.1-18 –

1.      At the age of 12, God calls out Samuel.

2.      At the request of Eli, Samuel responds: “Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening” (1 Sam. 3.10).

B.     We must respond to God’s call.

1.      We are called through the gospel (cf. 2 Thess. 2.13-14).

2.      We must hear and respond (cf. James 1.22).

II.                He honored the people’s request:

A.    The people wanted a king to rule over them (1 Sam. 8).

1.      Their reasons were: a) Samuel’s sons (i.e., Joel and Abijah) were corrupt; and b) They wanted to be like the surrounding nations.

2.      God decides to grant their request (vv. 7-10) and asks Samuel to be in charge of the selection and confirmation of the new king.

B.     We must learn to do things that we may not necessarily like.

1.      We must sacrifice our rights at times for the good of others (cf. 1 Cor. 8).

2.      We may not understand God’s reasoning at times (cf. Isa. 55.8-9).

III.             He confronted the king:

A.    1 Sam. 13 – King offers sacrifice; therefore, no heir

B.     1 Sam. 15 – King fails to obey God; therefore, no longer God’s king

C.     We must stand up and tell the truth even when it is difficult.