1 Samuel 16
David Guzik · Citado em PreceptAustin
1 Samuel 16
Guzik - God will never allow His work to die with the death or failure of a man. If it is God’s work, it goes beyond any man. Mattoon - God asked Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul?” Samuel was broken hearted over Saul’s failure. It was a great disappointment. Even the courageous Jonathan would not be king. The one who really should be weeping and grieving is not weeping at all. It should be Saul with the tears. What has happened is in the past. What’s done is done. Samuel it is time to go forward. Fill your horn and go to Jesse’s home. The message is the same for us today. Have you failed? Has someone disappointed you? Get up and go forward in your walk with the Lord. (See Paul's "prescription" - Php 3:13, 14+). Grieve (056) abal means to mourn, lament. It was used of mourning rites for the dead (interesting thought considering Samuel was mourning for Saul!). Those who mourn are persons who mourn for looking at God’s coming judgments (Isa. 19:8; Amos 8:8; 9:5). But figuratively, the gates of the city of Zion mourn because of her desolation (Isa. 3:26) as does the earth itself (Isa. 24:4) when God comes in judgment (Isa. 33:9; cf. Amos 1:2). In the reflexive use of the verb, it indicates mourning for the dead (Gen. 37:34); for Jerusalem (Isa. 66:10); over a particular person (1 Sam. 15:35; 16:1); or over sin or judgment (Ex. 33:4; Neh. 8:9). It is also used to indicate that God causes mourning (Lam. 2:8; Ezek. 31:15). In both cases, the word is used in a figurative sense. In the first instance, He causes the deep to mourn over Assyria, and in the second case, He causes the wall of Jerusalem to mourn over the fall of the city which it (the wall) was to surround and protect. The Septuagint translates grieve with pentheo which means to mourn for, lament. Pentheo denotes loud mourning such as the lament for the dead or for a severe, painful loss. It is grief and sorrow caused by profound loss, especially death. Mourning can reflect an outward expression of sorrow. It is to experience sadness or grief as the result of depressing circumstances or the condition of persons and so to be sad, to grieve, to bewail or to lament. Grieving over a personal hope (relationship) that dies, Pentheō ("mourn over a death") refers to "manifested grief"severe enough to take possession of a person and hence cannot be hid. This is the same meaning of penthéō throughout antiquity. Abal in First and Second Samuel - 1 Sam. 6:19; 1 Sam. 15:35; 1 Sam. 16:1; 2 Sam. 13:37; 2 Sam. 14:2; 2 Sam. 19:1; Rejected (cast off, despised) (03988) ma'as means to reject, to despise, to abhor, to refuse. The primary idea is to treat as loathsome (that which is repulsive, detestable, causing disgust). Ma'as is used of men rejecting God's law, ordinances or statutes (2Ki 17:15, Lev 26:15, 43, Isa 5:24, Ezek 5:6, 20:13, 16, 24, Amos 2:4. Saul rejected God's word - 1Sa 15:26. Isa 30:12, cp Hos 4:6), of rejecting Him (Nu 11:20 = Lxx = apeitheo - disobeyed, 1Sa 10:19), the promised land by the first generation (Nu 14:31, cp Ps 106:23). God told Samuel "they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them." (1Sa 8:7) 2Ki 17:20 says Jehovah "rejected all the descendants of Israel." (cp Hos 9:17) Used of Jehovah saying He would "cast off Jerusalem." (2Ki 23:27 contrast Jer 31:38-40) We are not to "despise the discipline of the Almighty." (Job 5:17, Pr 3:11, 15:32) After Job sees God, he says "therefore I retract and I repent in dust and ashes." (Job 42:6) Used of a reprobate (Ps 15:4). In a clear Messianic prophecy Psalms 118:22 = "The stone which the builders rejected (apodokimazo - regard as unworthy after testing) Has become the chief corner stone." Evil should be refused or rejected (Isa 7:15, 16). OIL IN THE BIBLE - SOURCE - Dictionary of Biblical Imagery (ONLINE) - Oil is mentioned nearly two hundred times in the Bible. These references cluster at two ends of a continuum: some of the uses of oil were everyday and common, while others were special and even sacred. Oils in biblical times were obtained from a variety of sources—animal, vegetable and mineral. Deuteronomy 32:13 and Job 29:6 refer poetically to oil flowing from rocks, an image of fertility or prosperity. In some Jewish traditions the tree of life in Eden was considered to be an olive tree, a sign of the importance of oil in daily living. Oil was seen as a staple and characteristic product of the Promised Land (2 Kings 18:32; Jer 40:10). It served a plethora of purposes: a constituent of food (1 Kings 17:12), a cosmetic (Eccles 9:7–8), a fuel for lamps (Ex 25:6), a medicine (Is 1:6). It was also a key export (1 Kings 5:11). Oils further had a role in sacrifices and in anointing performed as part of investiture. The olive was the most significant source of oil. Using poles, people dislodged olives from the tree (Is 17:6) and then reduced them to pulp. When the pulp was placed in wicker baskets, the highest and lightest grade of oil would run out, constituting the “beaten oil” that is referred to several times in the Bible (e.g., Ex 27:20; 29:40; Lev 24:2; Num 28:5; 1 Kings 5:11). After the lightest oil had been extracted, a lower-grade oil was obtained by exerting further pressure on the pulp and heating it. Oil in Everyday Life. Along with other staples, such as grain and wine, oil was seen as an essence of life and a tangible sign of God’s blessing and favor, which could be lost by disobedience (Deut 11:13–17). It was used as food and in baking and cooking. The taste of manna was compared to that of cakes baked with oil (Num 11:8). Some of the anointing associated with oil was also ordinary. In a climate where dry skin was a problem, especially for travelers, anointing with oil was a refreshment (Ps 23:5, which at a literal level, however, refers to healing oil applied to an injured sheep in the sheepfold at the end of a day). Elsewhere anointing with oil seems to be an image of high-spirited indulgence on a festive occasion (Ps 104:5; Eccles 9:8). We also catch glimpses of anointing with oil as an honor conferred on a guest arriving for a feast (Lk 7:46). Another common use of oil was as a healing ointment. Psalm 23:5 puts this into a pastoral context, with its picture of a shepherd’s anointing the scratches or bruises of a sheep. For humans too, oil was valued for its healing properties. The oil softened wounds, and in James 5:14 it is linked with God’s active hand in healing as a response to people’s prayer. A final mundane use of oil was as a fuel for lamps. In Jesus’ day the use of small, hand-held lamps was common. In view of the lamps’ small capacity, carrying a supply of fuel was essential, a situation that formed the basis for one of Jesus’ haunting parables (Mt 25:3–8). Special Uses of Oil. At the other end of the spectrum, oil in the Bible is associated with the most solemn and awesome experiences of OT religious and civil life. Oil was used as part of the ritual anointing to set apart a prophet (Is 61:1), a priest (Lev 8:30) or a king (1 Sam 10:1). The anointing oil is referred to as “oil of gladness,” in keeping with the joyousness of the occasion. A rich theme of anointing runs through the OT in the figure of the promised deliverer, who is twice called “the Anointed One,” or Messiah (Dan 9:25–26 NIV). The anointing is figurative, invested by the Holy Spirit (Ps 2:2; Is 61:1). In the NT the symbolism of anointing is richly associated with Jesus the Messiah (Heb 1:9) and includes the anointing by Mary (Jn 12) as well as the anointing of his corpse after his crucifixion (Jn 19:39–40). Another context where oil is prominent is OT worship, where it assumes sacral significance. Oil was part of the continual burnt offering and was mixed with various food offerings. It also figured prominently in ritual purification. To catch the flavor of oil as part of OT religious ritual, one can sample the one hundred references to oil in the last four books of the Pentateuch. Even the sensory properties of anointing oil convey a sense of its richness. Such oil was above all fragrant. While olive oil was used as a base for various perfumed lotions, Exodus 30:22–33 speaks of finest spices, referring to special anointing oil made from rare and expensive scented spices. Most of these came from far-off places like India. Persia, India and Arabia were renowned for the export of aromatic perfumes. The oil of myrrh (Ex 30:23) was esteemed for its sweet perfume (Ps 45:8; Prov 7:17). Cinnamon and balsam were other ingredients of the fragrant anointing oil. Oil as a Symbol. Such a regular feature of ancient culture and life naturally became a rich symbol. Possession of oil is a sign of prosperity and abundance, as well as of God’s good provision (Job 29:6; Joel 2:24). The olive tree in Judges 9:9 boasts that by its fatness “gods and men are honored” (RSV). The seductive words of an enemy are compared to the softness of oil (Ps 55:21). The enticing speech of the sexually promiscuous is considered to be smoother than oil (Prov 5:3). God’s favor is compared to the refreshment of anointing oil on the head (Ps 23:5; 45:7; 92:10), and a similar comparison is used to describe the ideal unity of fellow pilgrims (Ps 133:1–2). The love given by the woman in the Song of Songs, sweetened by the fragrance of her perfume, is praised, the fragrance imaging her love (Song 4:10). A good name is said to be better than good oil (Eccles 7:1, where there is a wordplay on “name” [šē] and “oil” [šemen]; cf. Song 1:3). See also ANOINTING; DISEASE AND HEALING; LAMP, LAMPSTAND; OINTMENT. Oil IN BIBLICAL TIMES OIL WAS MADE from a variety of natural sources, including almonds and castor beans, but primarily from olives. In fact, the English word “oil” is derived from the Latin oleum, which translates the Greek elaian, “olive oil.” From ancient times olive oil has been used as food and in cooking, for illumination, as a medicine, as a cosmetic, in religious rites, for consecrating political and religious leaders, and showing hospitality. As a result olive oil was highly valued commercially. Although olive trees are now cultivated all over the Mediterranean Basin as well as in other climatically favorable areas, in biblical times Palestine especially was known as “a land with... olive oil” (Deut. 8:8), along with other agricultural products. Its production was basic to Israel's economy both domestically and for export (2 Chron. 2:8-10, 15-16). When Elisha miraculously multiplied the “little oil” for the widow whose creditors were threatening to take her two boys as slaves, he directed her to “sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left” (2 Kings 4:1-7). Olive oil is produced primarily from ripe, black olives, although some oil is produced from green olives. The harvest season for olives runs from September through November. The olives are allowed to fall from the trees and are gathered, or they are beaten from the trees with long rods. As with other crops, the poor people were allowed to glean what remained after the harvest was completed (Deut. 24:20). A better grade of oil was produced by pressing the olives without crushing the kernels. Sometimes this was done by treading them underfoot like grapes (Mic. 6:15), or by crushing them with a pestle, producing what is called “clear oil” (Exod. 27:20). In later times mills were used to crush the kernels as well as the fruit, with the oil being extracted from the pulp in several stages of purity. The purer grades were used in cosmetics and religious ceremonies, and the less pure grades were used for cooking and lighting uses. Because of the dry, hot climate in the eastern Mediterranean area, and in the deserts in particular, olive oil was rubbed on the skin to keep it soft. It was also applied to the head. As a result, it became customary to anoint the heads of visitors in one's home with olive oil, sometimes perfumed, as a token of hospitality (Ps. 23:5; Amos 6:6, NASB). The Lord Jesus' experience in the home of Simon, the Pharisee, shows that anointing the head of a guest, especially one as honored as Jesus, was common courtesy. When Simon silently criticized Jesus for allowing “a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town” to anoint Him with perfumed oil and wash and kiss His feet, Jesus rebuked him for having omitted the normal courtesies of providing water to wash His feet, greeting Him with a kiss, and anointing His head with oil, the very things the woman had done in devotion and worship (Luke 7:36-50). In a similar incident in Bethany of Judea, Mary, one of Lazarus's sisters, anointed Jesus with “a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume.” When Judas Iscariot and other disciples denounced her act of devotion and worship as a waste, Jesus rebuked them, saying that she had done it to prepare Him “for the day of [his] burial” (John 12:1-8; see also Matt. 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-9). Oil was used medicinally in a variety of ways. Frequently it was one of the ingredients in medicines taken internally. It was also applied to open wounds as a healing, soothing ointment (Isa. 1:6) or together with wine as an antiseptic (Luke 10:34). Apparently it also was applied to the body externally as an ointment, perhaps to control fever (Mark 6:13), and sometimes it was accompanied with prayer (James 5:14). On the basis of these Scriptures, the Roman Catholic Church has developed the sacrament of extreme unction and the Greek Orthodox Church the rite called Euchelaion. From ancient times until comparatively recently, olive oil was used in the Mediterranean area as fuel for illumination. The usual lamp was a small shallow clay bowl with the raised edge pinched almost together on one side to hold the wick extending outward. Such lamps are found in abundance in excavations and sold as souvenirs in the Near East. The average home had these lamps in several rooms (2 Kings 4:10). Because they were small, it was necessary to carry a supply of oil when using them outside at night, as Jesus' parable of the ten virgins shows (Matt. 25:1-10). As noted above in the story of the sinful woman in the home of Simon, the Pharisee, and the story of Mary of Bethany anointing Jesus with “perfume” (Luke 7:37-38, 46; John 12:3, 5), olive oil was often combined with a scented substance such as myrrh, anise, cedar, cinnamon, ginger, peppermint, rose, or sandalwood. After the oil had become scented and the solid residue had settled, the oil was poured off and used as an ointment (Ruth 3:3; 2 Sam. 12:20; Esther 2:12). The most significant use of olive oil, both ordinary and perfumed, in Scripture was for religious purposes. After God appeared to Jacob the night he left Beersheba for Haran, the next morning Jacob “took the stone he had placed under his head and set it up as a pillar and poured oil on top of it. He called that place Bethel” (Gen. 28:18-19), which means “God's house” (28:22; 35:14-15). Likewise, the tabernacle and all its furnishings and instruments were anointed with a special oil (Exod. 30:26-29; 40:9-11; Lev. 8:10-11; Num. 7:1) made to a specific formula (Exod. 30:22-24) to serve as “a holy anointing oil” (30:25; 37:29). The same holy anointing oil was used for consecrating Aaron as the high priest and his sons as priests to serve God (Exod. 29:7; 30:30; 40:12-16; Lev. 8:12; 21:10, 12; Ps. 133:2). The care of the anointing oil was given to Aaron's son Eleazar (Num. 4:16) and later committed to some of the priests (1 Chron. 9:29-30). Although Moses laid his hands on Joshua and commissioned him as his successor (Deut. 34:9), apparently Joshua was not anointed with oil. Later, however, Samuel anointed Saul to be king over Israel (1 Sam. 10:1), as well as David (16:1, 12-13). After David designated Solomon to be his successor as king (1 Kings 1:30, 32-35), at David's direction Zadok the priest anointed Solomon as king over Israel (1:39). Also at Elisha's direction, one of his prophets anointed Jehu to kill “the whole house of Ahab” and serve as king of Israel (2 Kings 9:1-3, 6-7, 12-13). In the Bible olive oil is symbolic of a number of things. A lack of oil signified famine (Joel 1:10; Hag. 1:11), while oil in abundance was evidence of God's blessing and prosperity (Job 29:6; Joel 2:19, 24). Olive oil was a symbol of joy (Ps. 45:7; Isa. 61:3; Heb. 1:9). Wasting oil is a sign of profligacy (Prov. 21:17), while using it carefully is evidence of prudence and wisdom (21:20). Supremely, however, anointing with oil is a symbol of the Holy Spirit's descent on and direction of the individual anointed (1 Sam. 10:1, 6-7, 9; 16:13). —J A Walvoord (Borrow So That's What it Means) Since olive oil in the Bible is a symbol of gladness and joy, become a “merchant” who dispenses joy freely 1 Samuel 16:1-13 Looks And Life During the first few hours of their 30th college reunion, Mary Schmich and her friends talked mostly about how old their classmates looked. But as the event progressed, their focus began to change. Later, in her Chicago Tribune column, Mary wrote: “Once you get used to the fact that time has robbed every single one of you of something—or added it in the wrong places … you stop thinking about looks [and] start talking about life.” So much of our time and attention are devoted to physical appearance that it’s easy to consider it the most important aspect of our lives. But the Bible reminds us that God wants us to see ourselves and others differently. When the Lord sent Samuel to anoint a new king over Israel (1 Samuel 16:1), God reminded him to look deeper than physical characteristics: “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature … For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (v.7). God looks not at the outward form But what is in the heart; The beauty He is pleased to see, His Spirit can impart. —Hess Our mirrors reflect the outward appearance; God’s mirror reveals the inward condition. 1 Samuel 16:2 But Samuel said, "How can I go? When Saul hears of it, he will kill me." And the LORD said, "Take a heifer with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' BGT 1 Samuel 16:2 καὶ εἶπεν Σαμουηλ πῶς πορευθῶ καὶ ἀκούσεται Σαουλ καὶ ἀποκτενεῖ με καὶ εἶπεν κύριος δάμαλιν βοῶν λαβὲ ἐν τῇ χειρί σου καὶ ἐρεῖς θῦσαι τῷ κυρίῳ ἥκω LXE 1 Samuel 16:2 And Samuel said, How can I go? whereas Saul will hear of it, and slay me: and the Lord said, Take a heifer in thine hand and thou shall say, I am come to sacrifice to the Lord. KJV 1 Samuel 16:2 And Samuel said, How can I go? if Saul hear it, he will kill me. And the LORD said, Take an heifer with thee, and say, I am come to sacrifice to the LORD. NET 1 Samuel 16:2 Samuel replied, "How can I go? Saul will hear about it and kill me!" But the LORD said, "Take a heifer with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' CSB 1 Samuel 16:2 Samuel asked, "How can I go? Saul will hear about it and kill me!" The LORD answered, "Take a young cow with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' ESV 1 Samuel 16:2 And Samuel said, "How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me." And the LORD said, "Take a heifer with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' NIV 1 Samuel 16:2 But Samuel said, "How can I go? Saul will hear about it and kill me." The LORD said, "Take a heifer with you and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' NLT 1 Samuel 16:2 But Samuel asked, "How can I do that? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me." "Take a heifer with you," the LORD replied, "and say that you have come to make a sacrifice to the LORD. NRS 1 Samuel 16:2 Samuel said, "How can I go? If Saul hears of it, he will kill me." And the LORD said, "Take a heifer with you, and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' NJB 1 Samuel 16:2 Samuel replied, 'How can I go? When Saul hears of it he will kill me.' Yahweh then said, 'Take a heifer with you and say, "I have come to sacrifice to Yahweh." NAB 1 Samuel 16:2 But Samuel replied: "How can I go? Saul will hear of it and kill me." To this the LORD answered: "Take a heifer along and say, 'I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.' YLT 1 Samuel 16:2 And Samuel saith, 'How do I go? when Saul hath heard, then he hath slain me.' And Jehovah saith, 'A heifer of the herd thou dost take in thy hand, and hast said, To sacrifice to Jehovah I have come; How can I go: Ex 3:11 1Ki 18:9-14 Mt 10:16 Lu 1:34 Take an heifer: For the prudent management of the affair, and to avoid suspicion, Samuel was directed to go to Bethlehem to sacrifice, as he probably did from time to time in many different places; and the answer which he was instructed to return was strictly true though he did not tell the principal design of his coming; for though no man in any circumstances should tell a lie, yet, in all circumstances, he is not bound to tell the whole truth, though he must tell nothing but the truth, and so tell that truth that the hearer shall not believe a lie by it. with thee: Heb. in thine hand, 1Sa 9:12 I am come: 1Sa 9:12 20:29 Jer 38:26,27 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries On map note that to reach Bethlehem, Samuel would go from his home in Ramah but would have to pass by Saul in Gibeah SAMUEL'S CAUTIOUS CONCERN REGARDING ANOINTING But Samuel said, "How can I go? - Samuel is not arguing with Yahweh, but is just stating a reasonable concern. When Saul hears of it, he will kill me - See map above to help understand Samuel's concern. Samuel is not a dreamer, but a realist! Samuel's concern is not ill-founded, as he and Saul were no longer "bosom buddies!" And so we see in Samuel's concern a degree of doubt that Yahweh could protect him! Even the "giants of the faith" like Samuel have their "off days!" And Samuel was still well known so he could hardly fail to attack attention as he passe by Saul's location on his way to Bethlehem. Questions would surely arise as to his objective. He could hardly say he had some oil in his horn to anoint a new king!
1 Samuel 16
Guzik - God often chooses unlikely people to do His work, so that all know the work is God’s work, not man’s work....Keeping the sheep meant you had to trust God in the midst of danger. David had lions and bears and wolves to contend with and the sheep had to be protected. “The country round Bethlehem was not a peaceful paradise, and the career of a shepherd was not the easy life of lovesick swains which poets dream.” (Blaikie) Then Samuel said to Jesse, "Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here - Samuel says no shepherd, no supper! Related Resource: The LORD chooses a shepherd boy to be king. Why a shepherd? If you have time you might see Phillip Keller's insightful book A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 (borrow) Shepherd - The duties of a shepherd in an unenclosed country like Palestine were very onerous. "In early morning he led forth the flock from the fold, marching at its head to the spot where they were to be pastured. Here he watched them all day, taking care that none of the sheep strayed, and if any for a time eluded his watch and wandered away from the rest, seeking diligently till he found and brought it back. In those lands sheep require to be supplied regularly with water, and the shepherd for this purpose has to guide them either to some running stream or to wells dug in the wilderness and furnished with troughs. At night he brought the flock home to the fold, counting them as they passed under the rod at the door to assure himself that none were missing. Nor did his labours always end with sunset. Often he had to guard the fold through the dark hours from the attack of wild beasts, or the wily attempts of the prowling thief (see 1Sa 17:34)." Behold (02009) hinneh s an interjection meaning behold, look, now; if. "It is used often and expresses strong feelings, surprise, hope, expectation, certainty, thus giving vividness depending on its surrounding context." (Baker) Hinneh generally directs our mind to the text, imploring the reader to give it special attention. In short, the Spirit is trying to arrest our attention! And so hinneh is used as an exclamation of vivid immediacy (e.g., read Ge 6:13)! Hinneh is a marker used to enliven a narrative, to express a change a scene, to emphasize an idea, to call attention to a detail or an important fact or action that follows (Isa 65:17, Ge 17:20, 41:17). The first use of hinneh in Ge 1:29 and second in Ge 1:31 - "And God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day." Hinneh is oftn used in the idiom "Here I am" in Ge 22:1, 7,11 Ge 27:1,18, Ge 31:11, Ge 46:2 Ex 3:4 1Sa 3:4, 3:16, 12:3, 2Sa 1:7, Isa 52:6, Isa 58:9. Hinneh is used most often to point out people but also to point out things (Ge 31:41, 17:4). God uses hinneh to grab man's attention before He brings destruction (Ge 6:13, 17). God uses hinneh when He establishes covenants (Ge 9:9, 15:12, 17 [when Jehovah cut the Abrahamic covenant], Ge 17:4, cp Ge 28:13, 15), when He provided a sacrificial substitute for Isaac (foreshadowing His giving us His only Son!) (Ge 22:13). Hinneh marks the "chance (The Providence of God)" arrival of Boaz at the field where Ruth was gleaning (Ru 2:4-read about this "chance romance" - Indeed, "Behold!"). Hinneh is used to announce the Lord’s sending of a child as a sign and a prophecy of Immanuel-Emmanuel, the Messiah (Isa. 7:14+). In fact W E Vine says that it is notable that when behold (hinneh) is used in Isaiah, it always introduces something relating to future circumstances.
1 Samuel 16
Guzik - From the actions of David, Jesse, and David’s brothers, after this we can assume that only God and Samuel knew exactly what happened here....David will become one of the greatest men of the Bible, mentioned more than 1,000 times in the pages of Scripture—more than Abraham, more than Moses, more than any mere man in the New Testament. It’s no accident that Jesus wasn’t known as the “Son of Abraham” or the “Follower of Moses,” but as the Son of David (Matthew 9:27 and at least a dozen other places). F B
1 Samuel 16
Guzik adds - God created music and gave it the capability to touch people with great power. Music can be used for great good or for great evil, because it is so powerfully communicates to our inner being. Deffinbaugh: “This may be an appropriate place to say a word about music and its relationship to the spiritual realm. You will recall from 1Sa 10:5 -6, 10-13 that the prophets whom Saul met, and whom Saul joined as “one of the prophets” (at least momentarily) as the Spirit came mightily upon him, were accompanied musically by stringed instruments -- the tambourine, flute and harp (1Sa 10:5). Somehow the Spirit’s coming upon Saul (and the rest, perhaps) is associated with or even initiated by music. In chapter 16, Saul’s demonic fits are calmed by David’s playing of the harp. Once again in 2Ki 2:14-15, Elisha calls for a minstrel so that he can prophesy in the Spirit. I take it that music plays some kind of role in connecting with (or disconnecting from) the spiritual realm. I take it that we should be very careful about the kind of music to which we submit ourselves. I know there has been a lot of talk about “rock music,” and I am not inclined to wax eloquent on this matter here, but I do suggest that there is a potentially beneficial type of music, and very likely, a kind of music that may invoke the wrong spirit. This text should give us pause for thought on the subject of the music to which we listen and its influence upon us .” Harp [EBD] (Heb. kinnor), the national instrument of the Hebrews. It was invented by Jubal (Gen. 4:21). Some think the word kinnor denotes the whole class of stringed instruments. It was used as an accompaniment to songs of cheerfulness as well as of praise to God (Gen. 31:27; 1 Sam. 16:23; 2 Chr. 20:28; Ps. 33:2; 137:2). In Solomon's time harps were made of almug-trees (1 Kings 10:11, 12). In 1 Chr. 15:21 mention is made of "harps on the Sheminith;" Revised Version, "harps set to the Sheminith;" better perhaps "harps of eight strings." The soothing effect of the music of the harp is referred to 1 Sam. 16:16, 23; 18:10; 19:9. The church in heaven is represented as celebrating the triumphs of the Redeemer "harping with their harps" (Rev. 14:2). Life Application Study Bible (borrow) - Harps were popular musical instruments in Saul's day, and their music is still known for its soothing qualities. The simplest harps were merely two pieces of wood fastened at right angles to each other. The strings were stretched across the wood to give the harp a triangular shape. Simple strings could be made of twisted grasses, but better strings were made of dried animal intestine. Harps could have up to 40 strings and were louder than the smaller three- or four-stringed instruments called lyres. David, known for his shepherding skills and bravery, was also an accomplished harpist and musician, who would eventually write many of the psalms found in the Bible. Nave's Topic - HARP a stringed instrument of music, Isa. 38:20; Ezek. 33:32; Hab. 3:19. With three strings, 1 Sam. 18:6; ten strings, Psa. 33:2; 92:3; 144:9; 150:4. Originated with Jubal, Gen. 4:21. Made of almug wood, 1 Kin. 10:12. David skillful in manipulating, 1 Sam. 16:16, 23. Used in worship, 1 Sam. 10:5; 1 Chr. 16:5; 25:1-7; 2 Chr. 5:12, 13; 29:25; Psa. 33:2; 43:4; 49:4; 57:8; 71:22; 81:2; 92:3; 98:5; 108:2; 147:7; 149:3; 150:3. Used, in national jubilees, after the triumph over Goliath, 1 Sam. 18:6; over the armies of Ammon and Moab, 2 Chr. 20:28, with verses 20-29; when the new walls of Jerusalem were dedicated, Neh. 12:27, 36. Used in festivities, Gen. 31:27; Job 21:11, 12; Isa. 5:12; 23:16; 24:8; 30:32; Ezek. 26:13; Rev. 18:22; in mourning, Job 30:31. Discordant, 1 Cor. 14:7. Hung on the willows by the captive Jews, Psa. 137:2. Heard in heaven, in John's apocalyptic vision, Rev. 5:8; 14:2; 15:2. The symbol used in the psalmody to indicate when the harp was to be introduced in the music was Neginoth, see titles of Psa. 4; 6; 54; 55; 61; 67; 76. Theodore Epp - A LIFE THAT BLESSES OTHERS 1 Samuel 16:14-23 Having been anointed king of Israel, David's life could never be the simple life of a shepherd boy again. He was able to return to his flocks for brief periods, but those times soon ceased. As Psalm 23 indicates, David never forgot that the Lord was his Shepherd. The reminders of the Lord's majesty and care and the benefits of the quiet pastures and still waters steadied David in many a crisis. And they helped bring about the restoration of his soul when he sinned. The quality of David's life was such that when he first appeared at the royal residence, Saul "loved him greatly" (1 Sam. 16:21). David came to dispel with his sweet music the evil spirit that often troubled Saul. He, of course, did not know that David was to be his successor. On the other hand, David behaved so well and was so humble that Saul had no reason to dislike him; rather, he admired and loved him. He made David his armor-bearer and sent word to Jesse that his son was now attached to the inner circle of the king's bodyguard. Do our lives give off a sweet fragrance that is a blessing to others? Others should see Christ's life reflected in our lives as believers in Christ. "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:35). 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Provide for me now a man who can play well and bring him to me." BGT 1 Samuel 16:17 καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ πρὸς τοὺς παῖδας αὐτοῦ ἴδετε δή μοι ἄνδρα ὀρθῶς ψάλλοντα καὶ εἰσαγάγετε αὐτὸν πρὸς ἐμέ LXE 1 Samuel 16:17 And Saul said to his servants, Look now out for me a skillful player, and bring him to me. KJV 1 Samuel 16:17 And Saul said unto his servants, Provide me now a man that can play well, and bring him to me. NET 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Find me a man who plays well and bring him to me." CSB 1 Samuel 16:17 Then Saul commanded his servants, "Find me someone who plays well and bring him to me." ESV 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Provide for me a man who can play well and bring him to me." NIV 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his attendants, "Find someone who plays well and bring him to me." NLT 1 Samuel 16:17 "All right," Saul said. "Find me someone who plays well, and bring him here." NRS 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Provide for me someone who can play well, and bring him to me." NJB 1 Samuel 16:17 Saul said to his attendants, 'Find me, please, a man who plays well, and bring him to me.' NAB 1 Samuel 16:17 Saul then told his servants, "Find me a skillful harpist and bring him to me." YLT 1 Samuel 16:17 And Saul saith unto his servants, 'Provide, I pray you, for me a man playing well -- then ye have brought him in unto me.' RSV 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Provide for me a man who can play well, and bring him to me." NKJ 1 Samuel 16:17 So Saul said to his servants, "Provide me now a man who can play well, and bring him to me." 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries FIND A SKILLFUL HARP PLAYER So Saul said to his servants, "Provide for me now a man who can play well and bring him to me." 1 Samuel 16:18 Then one of the young men said, "Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man; and the LORD is with him." BGT 1 Samuel 16:18 καὶ ἀπεκρίθη εἷς τῶν παιδαρίων αὐτοῦ καὶ εἶπεν ἰδοὺ ἑόρακα υἱὸν τῷ Ιεσσαι Βηθλεεμίτην καὶ αὐτὸν εἰδότα ψαλμόν καὶ ὁ ἀνὴρ συνετός καὶ ὁ ἀνὴρ πολεμιστὴς καὶ σοφὸς λόγῳ καὶ ἀνὴρ ἀγαθὸς τῷ εἴδει καὶ κύριος μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ LXE 1 Samuel 16:18 And one of his servants answered and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jessae the Bethleemite, and he understands playing on the harp, and the man is prudent, and a warrior, and wise in speech, and the man is handsome, and the Lord is with him. KJV 1 Samuel 16:18 Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the LORD is with him. NET 1 Samuel 16:18 One of his attendants replied, "I have seen a son of Jesse in Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave warrior and is articulate and handsome, for the LORD is with him." CSB 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the young men answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is also a valiant man, a warrior, eloquent, handsome, and the LORD is with him." ESV 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the young men answered, "Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the LORD is with him." NIV 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the servants answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the LORD is with him." NLT 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the servants said to Saul, "One of Jesse's sons from Bethlehem is a talented harp player. Not only that-- he is a brave warrior, a man of war, and has good judgment. He is also a fine-looking young man, and the LORD is with him." NRS 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the young men answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a warrior, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence; and the LORD is with him." NJB 1 Samuel 16:18 One of the servants then spoke up and said, 'I have seen one of the sons of Jesse the Bethlehemite: he is a skilled player, a brave man and a fighter, well spoken, good-looking and Yahweh is with him.' NAB 1 Samuel 16:18 A servant spoke up to say: "I have observed that one of the sons of Jesse of Bethlehem is a skillful harpist. He is also a stalwart soldier, besides being an able speaker, and handsome. Moreover, the LORD is with him." YLT 1 Samuel 16:18 And one of the servants answereth and saith, 'Lo, I have seen a son of Jesse the Beth-Lehemite, skilful in playing, and a mighty virtuous man, and a man of battle, and intelligent in word, and a man of form, and Jehovah is with him.' a mighty: 1Sa 17:32-36 2Sa 17:8,10 prudent: 2Sa 14:20 handsome man: 1Sa 16:12 the LORD: 1Sa 3:19 1Sa 10:7 1Sa 18:12-14 Ge 39:2,23 Mt 1:23 28:20 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Following are passages where God is with someone Genesis 21:22 Now it came about at that time that Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, spoke to Abraham, saying, “God is with you in all that you do; Genesis 26:24 The LORD appeared to him (ISAAC) the same night and said, “I am the God of your father Abraham; Do not fear, for I am with you. I will bless you, and multiply your descendants, For the sake of My servant Abraham.” Genesis 39:2 The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian. Genesis 39:21-23 But the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the chief jailer. 22 The chief jailer committed to Joseph’s charge all the prisoners who were in the jail; so that whatever was done there, he was responsible for it. 23 The chief jailer did not supervise anything under Joseph’s charge because the LORD was with him; and whatever he did, the LORD made to prosper. Genesis 48:21 Then Israel said to Joseph, “Behold, I am about to die, but God will be with you, and bring you back to the land of your fathers. Exodus 3:12 And He said, “Certainly I will be with you (MOSES), and this shall be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God at this mountain.” Deuteronomy 2:7 “For the LORD your God has blessed you in all that you have done; He has known your wanderings through this great wilderness. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you; you have not lacked a thing.”’ Deuteronomy 20:4 for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.’ Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” Joshua 1:5 “No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Judges 2:18 When the LORD raised up judges for them, the LORD was with the judge and delivered them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge; for the LORD was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who oppressed and afflicted them. Judges 6:12 The Angel of the LORD appeared to him and said to him, “The LORD is with you, O valiant warrior.” 1 Samuel 3:19 Thus Samuel grew and the LORD was with him and let none of his words fail. 1 Samuel 10:7 “It shall be when these signs come to you, do for yourself what the occasion requires, for God is with you. Isaiah 41:10 ‘Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ Amos 5:14 Seek good and not evil, that you may live; And thus may the LORD God of hosts be with you, Just as you have said! Zechariah 8:23 “Thus says the LORD of hosts, ‘In those days ten men from all the nations will grasp the garment of a Jew, saying, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.”’” DAVID'S "RESUME" WELL KNOWN A résumé is a brief account of one's professional or work experience and qualifications, often submitted with an employment application. This passad gives us a list of David's qualifications for a job in the king's court. Then one of the young men said, "Behold (hinneh; Lxx = idou) I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man (Lit = a man of form = toar; Lxx = agathos = good); and the LORD is with him - Of course, it was not an accident that one of the young men knew of David's musical ability, but he adds 4 more characteristics, the most important is that the LORD with him. How did he know the latter? We cannot state with certainty, but undoubtedly David's godly behavior/character was seen by others. And keep in mind that this is amazing, because he was keeping the sheep for Jesse (cf 1Sa 16:19)! When God gets ready to use a man, he first looks at his heart to do a character checkup. Then He makes others aware of his reputation by the spiritual fruit in their lives. The LORD was with him - This is clearly the most distinguishing and most important characteristic of young David. So even at a relatively young age (most think he was a teenager around 15+/-, but we cannot be dogmatic), the "fruit" of David's life demonstrated the Spirit of God was with him! This reflects the Holy Spirit's having come upon him mightily for empowerment and is a truth repeatedly emphasized in David's life (see passages below). Even the pagans recognized that God was with godly men of old (Abraham - Ge 21:22, Joseph - Ge 39:21, 23) THOUGHT - Does my life demonstrate to others (family, co-workers, other students, etc) that Christ is in me, the hope of glory (Col 1:27b+), that the Spirit of Christ (1Pe 1:11+) is with me? My life should show that God is with me, for as NT believers, God's Spirit is not just "with" us but permanently resides within us as His temple (1Cor 6:19+, Ro 8:9+, 1Co 12:13+). Are you living as a light in the midst of a (increasingly) crooked and perverse generation (Php 2:15+)? If not, perhaps the reason is because you are "short circuiting" your "power Source," the Holy Spirit, Who is "in you, giving you the desire to obey Him and the power to do what pleases Him." (Php 2:13NLT+). What "short-circuits" His supernatural power? Simply one word - SIN! But praise God, He has given us a way to "re-establish" the flow of supernatural power - CONFESSION (1Jn 1:9+, cf Pr 28:13+). Don't hide your sin under the rug, but put it under His blood, and "walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light" so that you might experience "fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son (present tense - continually) cleanses us from all sin." (1Jn 1:7). Beloved "Carry Your Candle" like David carried his and go light your world like David did... There is a candle in every (BELIEVER'S) soul Some brightly burning some dark and cold. There is a Spirit Who brings a fire, Ignites a candle and makes His Home. So carry your candle, run to the darkness. Seek out the hopeless confused and torn. Hold out your candle for all to see it. Take your candle, go light your world (Mt 5:16+) 1 Samuel 18:12-14 Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul. 13 Therefore Saul removed him from his presence and appointed him as his commander of a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people. 14 David was prospering in all his ways for the LORD was with him. 1 Samuel 18:28-29 When Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David, and that Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved him, then Saul was even more afraid of David. Thus Saul was David’s enemy continually. 2 Samuel 5:10 David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of hosts was with him. 1 Chronicles 17:2 Then Nathan said to David, “Do all that is in your heart, for God is with you.” 1 Chronicles 28:20 Then David said to his son Solomon, “Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the LORD is finished. Stevenson - What a wondrous thing is the providence of God! These things seemed to happen just by "chance." By chance, Saul had this dark depression come over him at this period of his life just after David had been anointed. By chance, one of his attendants suggested music as a treatment. By chance, one of those attendance had heard of the musical ability of a shepherd boy from Bethlehem. Handsome (08389)(toar from taar - to incline) means outline, form, appearance, beauty, referring to the contour and outward from of something, humans (Ge. 29:17; 39:6; Dt. 21:11; 1Sa. 16:18); animals (Ge 41:18, 19). One of the most striking uses of toar is in Isaiah's prophetic description of Jesus - "For He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, And like a root out of parched ground; He has no stately form (toar) or majesty That we should look upon Him, Nor appearance that we should be attracted to Him." (Isa. 53:2+) Ronald Youngblood - Shape, form, beautiful, comely, fair, favored, goodly, resemble, visage. (ASV similar; RSV usually similar with exceptions noted below.) The various nuances of the verbal root described in the preceding paragraph indicate that the noun means basically "shape, form." It probably never means "appearance" (contrast RSV in 1 Samuel 28:14) because of the tautology that would result in passages like Genesis 29:17. Furthermore, the phrase shēm tōʾar was used by traditional Hebrew grammarians to refer to "a certain type of noun which does not express a quality or a characteristic in the abstract ... but denotes the agent or the bearer of a quality or characteristic" (D. J. Kamhi in Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies 34: 261). Thus tōʾar in the OT describes the form, rather than the appearance, of a beautiful woman (Genesis 29:17; Deut. 21:11; 1 Samuel 25:3; Esther 2:7), a handsome (RSV) man (Genesis 39:6; 1 Kings 1:6), sleek (RSV) or gaunt (RSV) cows (Genesis 41:18f.), etc. Especially noteworthy is the use of tōʾar twice in the fourth Suffering Servant Song (Isaiah 52:13; Isaiah 53:12). The Servant's form was horribly marred and disfigured (Isaiah 52:14), repulsive to look at (Isaiah 53:2). As H. C. Leupold (Exposition of Isaiah, II, p. 224) puts it: "Little wonder that many of the fathers of the church of days of old claim that the account reads as though Isaiah had sat at the foot of the cross" (see Mark 14:65; Mark 15:15-20). (Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament - online) Gilbrant - Likely derived from the root tāʾar, tōʾar means "form," "shape." When used with yāpheh (HED #3413), or a similar word, the shape of a body may refer to a lovely woman, like Rachel (Gen. 29:17), "beautiful of form" or a handsome man like Joseph (39:6), or David, "comely person," that is, "beautiful form" (1 Sam. 16:18). The basic idea of general physical appearance occurs when King Saul asked the witch of Endor about the appearance of Samuel coming from Sheol (28:14), and in Jeremiah's lament for the afflicted persons in Jerusalem (Lam. 4:8). The word may be used for the physical condition and appearance of animals, such as the cows in Pharaoh's dream, interpreted by Joseph (Gen. 41:19). As well, plant life, specifically an olive tree, is described as having excellent physical form (Jer. 11:16). (Complete Biblical Library) Toar - 12x/12v - appearance(2), form(7), handsome(1), handsome*(1), resembling(1). Gen. 29:17; Gen. 39:6; Jdg. 8:18; 1 Sam. 16:18; 1 Sam. 25:3; 1 Sam. 28:14; 1 Ki. 1:6; Est. 2:7; Isa. 52:14; Isa. 53:2; Jer. 11:16; Lam. 4:8 Henry Blackaby - SKILL (The Experience) 1 Samuel 16:18 In many ways we live in an age of mediocrity. We do only what we have to in order to get by. We try to get the most we can by doing the least we can. That’s why sweepstakes and lotteries are so popular and why gambling is such a growing social problem. It’s an attitude that says, “Give me something for nothing, or at least show me a shortcut!” The Bible warns against this kind of attitude. When King Saul was looking for someone who could play an instrument, not just anyone would do. He was looking for someone with skill, someone who had practiced and perfected his ability. He found David. David was chosen because he could do things well. Later, David’s son Solomon would write a proverb that affirmed this: Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before obscure men --- Proverbs 22:29 As a young person, you have incredible opportunities before you. You have the option to become skilled in many areas of life. You can work hard to develop your athletic or musical ability. You can study hard and make significant contributions to the world of medicine, law, or engineering. You can acquire a diversity of knowledge and skills so many doors will be open to you in the future. Some young people accept this challenge to become the best they can be and make a difference in the world. Others look at the cost involved and decide it’s not worth it. They’d rather find an easier, shorter path. They settle for mediocrity. Don’t be one of those who seeks the path of least resistance. Work hard. Do your best. Take advantage of the numerous opportunities God will give you to be the best you can be. You will honor God by your effort, and he will bless you for it. THE NOBLE PERSON 1 Samuel 16:18 - John Butler in Sermon Starters “Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the Lord is with him” (1 Samuel 16:18). Saul needed a man to help him with a personal problem. One of Saul’s servants recommended David for the job. The recommendation gave some important facts about David, these facts are very instructional. FIRST—HIS SITE “Bethlehemite.” Bethlehem was a very shall town. Yet David was observed there. You may feel that your location means you will never be noticed. But if you are faithful and have the qualifications, God will notice you, and in due time, will cause the right people to notice you. SECOND—HIS SKILL “Cunning in playing.” This spoke of his skill in harp playing. Saul needed a harp player to calm his spirit. David did not become skilled except by much practice. He used those many hours tending sheep not to day dream or to sit idly but to improve his harp skills. THIRD—HIS STRENGTH “A mighty valiant man.” The word “valiant” is translated from a Hebrew word meaning “strong.” David was no effeminate sissy. So in his character, he was both a man of muscle and music. FOURTH—HIS SOLDIERSHIP “A man of war.” David fought off the predators of his sheep. A lion and a bear were killed singlehandedly by David to protect his sheep. He was a courageous young men who would fight for that which was right. Evil would not trample on the innocent when David was present. FIFTH—HIS SPEECH “Prudent in matters.” The word translated “matters” is translated “words” over seven hundred times in the Old Testament. It is translated “matters” only some sixty times. The original KJV had “speech” in the margin. This compliment refers to David’s noble speech. He had a good mouth. He did not use his mouth to foul up the environment. SIXTH—HIS STATURE “A comely person.” The word “comely” refers to his physique. David was no couch potato, grossly overweight, waddling from place to place because he was physically inert. Physical condition is no substitute for spirituality. But a lazy, fat slob dishonors God. SEVENTH—HIS SPIRITUALITY “The LORD is with him.” This is the best attribute of all. It speaks of his high spiritual condition. David was devoted to the Lord. He was not the typical godless youth who had little time for God. He read and studied the Scriptures and knew how to pray. His relationship with God was the key to his great victory over Goliath. But if you want the Lord with you, you must want to be with the Lord. 1 Samuel 16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me your son David who is with the flock." BGT 1 Samuel 16:19 καὶ ἀπέστειλεν Σαουλ ἀγγέλους πρὸς Ιεσσαι λέγων ἀπόστειλον πρός με τὸν υἱόν σου Δαυιδ τὸν ἐν τῷ ποιμνίῳ σου LXE 1 Samuel 16:19 And Saul sent messengers to Jessae, saying, Send to me thy son David who is with thy flock. KJV 1 Samuel 16:19 Wherefore Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep. NET 1 Samuel 16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me your son David, who is out with the sheep. CSB 1 Samuel 16:19 Then Saul dispatched messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me your son David, who is with the sheep." ESV 1 Samuel 16:19 Therefore Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me David your son, who is with the sheep." NIV 1 Samuel 16:19 Then Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me your son David, who is with the sheep." NLT 1 Samuel 16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse to say, "Send me your son David, the shepherd." NRS 1 Samuel 16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse, and said, "Send me your son David who is with the sheep." NJB 1 Samuel 16:19 So Saul sent messengers to Jesse with the order, 'Send me your son David (who is with the sheep).' NAB 1 Samuel 16:19 Accordingly, Saul dispatched messengers to ask Jesse to send him his son David, who was with the flock. YLT 1 Samuel 16:19 And Saul sendeth messengers unto Jesse, and saith, 'Send unto me David thy son, who is with the flock.' with the flock: 1Sa 16:11 17:15,33,34 Ex 3:1-10 1Ki 19:19 Ps 78:70-72 113:8 Am 1:1 7:14,15 Mt 4:18-22 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL SENDS FOR A GOOD SHEPHERD So Saul sent messengers to Jesse and said, "Send me your son David who is with the flock - As king Saul could get whatever he wanted and so he command Jesse to send his son, which recalls Samuel's warning to the people desiring a king, that he would TAKE whatever he wanted ("take" repeated 6x in 1Sa 8:11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17+). Note the emphasis on his status as shepherd, a humble task, reflective of David's humble heart. Don't miss the fact that here is the anointed future king of Israel going back to his job shepherding the sheep. We don't know if David fully understood the purpose of the anointing, but either way, he remained faithful to the task that his father had assigned him. Gleason Archer - go to page 179 in The Encyclopedia of Bible Difficulties for the discussion of the topic - In 1 Samuel 16:19–21 Saul recognizes David as the son of Jesse, but in 1 Sa 17:58 Saul is said to have asked David, “Whose son art thou?” How can the two be reconciled? It is true that Saul had already been introduced to David (1 Sam. 16:18) as “a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite who is a skillful musician, a mighty man of valor, a warrior, one prudent in speech, and a handsome man” (NASB). But it should be noted also that up until the contest with Goliath, David had shown to King Saul only his artistic side; and then David had been permitted to return home to Bethlehem. It is altogether true to life for Saul to see David in an entirely new light and to show a keen interest in his background. Apparently General Abner had no previous acquaintance with David except as a harp player and so was not even aware of Jesse’s name (17:55). Abner had not been involved in David’s earlier introduction to the palace as a soothing musician (16:18); rather, one of Saul’s “young men” (that is, a retainer of the royal bodyguard) had mentioned Jesse’s name to Saul. Saul’s rekindled interest, however, went far beyond the name of David’s father—even though that was his lead-off question. It is quite apparent that Saul wanted to know whether there were any more at home like him; this was in line with his standard policy set forth in 1 Samuel 14:52: “When Saul saw any mighty man or any valiant man, he attached him to his staff” (NASB). That is to say, Saul was intent on building up a first-class bodyguard of champion fighters, and he saw in David a promising lead to obtaining more soldiers like him. From 18:1 we are informed that David then carried on a fairly extensive conversation with Saul, going far beyond the giving of his own father’s name. Thus we find that when we view the two episodes in their own context and situation, they turn out to be very true to life; and there is no real contradiction between them. 1 Samuel 16:20 Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread and a jug of wine and a young goat, and sent them to Saul by David his son. BGT 1 Samuel 16:20 καὶ ἔλαβεν Ιεσσαι γομορ ἄρτων καὶ ἀσκὸν οἴνου καὶ ἔριφον αἰγῶν ἕνα καὶ ἐξαπέστειλεν ἐν χειρὶ Δαυιδ τοῦ υἱοῦ αὐτοῦ πρὸς Σαουλ LXE 1 Samuel 16:20 And Jessae took a homer of bread, and a bottle of wine, and one kid of the goats, and sent them by the hand of his son David to Saul. KJV 1 Samuel 16:20 And Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them by David his son unto Saul. NET 1 Samuel 16:20 So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a container of wine, and a young goat and sent them to Saul with his son David. CSB 1 Samuel 16:20 So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a skin of wine, and one young goat and sent them by his son David to Saul. ESV 1 Samuel 16:20 And Jesse took a donkey laden with bread and a skin of wine and a young goat and sent them by David his son to Saul. NIV 1 Samuel 16:20 So Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a skin of wine and a young goat and sent them with his son David to Saul. NLT 1 Samuel 16:20 Jesse responded by sending David to Saul, along with a young goat, a donkey loaded with bread, and a wineskin full of wine. NRS 1 Samuel 16:20 Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a skin of wine, and a kid, and sent them by his son David to Saul. NJB 1 Samuel 16:20 Jesse took five loaves, a skin of wine and a kid, and sent them to Saul by his son David. NAB 1 Samuel 16:20 Then Jesse took five loaves of bread, a skin of wine, and a kid, and sent them to Saul by his son David. YLT 1 Samuel 16:20 And Jesse taketh an ass, with bread, and a bottle of wine, and one kid of the goats, and sendeth by the hand of David his son unto Saul. Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread and a jug of wine. 1Sa 10:27 17:18 25:18 Ge 43:11 2Sa 16:1,2 Pr 18:16 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JESSE SENDS GIFTS TO SAUL WITH DAVID Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread and a jug of wine and a young goat, and sent them to Saul by David his son 1 Samuel 16:21 Then David came to Saul and attended him; and Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor bearer. BGT 1 Samuel 16:21 καὶ εἰσῆλθεν Δαυιδ πρὸς Σαουλ καὶ παρειστήκει ἐνώπιον αὐτοῦ καὶ ἠγάπησεν αὐτὸν σφόδρα καὶ ἐγενήθη αὐτῷ αἴρων τὰ σκεύη αὐτοῦ LXE 1 Samuel 16:21 And David went in to Saul, and stood before him; and he loved him greatly; and he became his armour-bearer. KJV 1 Samuel 16:21 And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his armourbearer. NET 1 Samuel 16:21 David came to Saul and stood before him. Saul liked him a great deal, and he became his armor bearer. CSB 1 Samuel 16:21 When David came to Saul and entered his service, Saul admired him greatly, and David became his armor-bearer. ESV 1 Samuel 16:21 And David came to Saul and entered his service. And Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor-bearer. NIV 1 Samuel 16:21 David came to Saul and entered his service. Saul liked him very much, and David became one of his armor-bearers. NLT 1 Samuel 16:21 So David went to Saul and began serving him. Saul loved David very much, and David became his armor bearer. NRS 1 Samuel 16:21 And David came to Saul, and entered his service. Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor-bearer. NJB 1 Samuel 16:21 David went to Saul and entered his service; Saul became very fond of him and David became his armour-bearer. NAB 1 Samuel 16:21 Thus David came to Saul and entered his service. Saul became very fond of him, made him his armor-bearer, YLT 1 Samuel 16:21 And David cometh in unto Saul, and standeth before him, and he loveth him greatly; and he is a bearer of his weapons. stood before him: Ge 41:46 De 1:38 10:8 1Ki 10:8 Pr 22:29 loved him: Ps 62:9 118:9 146:3 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries DAVID'S WARM RECEPTION BY SAUL Then David came to Saul and attended him; and Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor bearer - David made a major impression on Saul as he entered into his service with the result that Saul love him and gave him a position of significant responsibility to be his armor bearer. As the story unfolds Saul's love turned to jealousy and hatred, because it was clear that Yahweh was with this young man. Clearly David's time in the royal court would serve as training as he observed the manners and customs of the court. Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before obscure men --- Proverbs 22:29 Life Application Study Bible (borrow) - Sometimes our plans-even the ones we think God has approved-have to be put on hold indefinitely. Like David, we can use this waiting time profitably. We can choose to learn and grow in our present circumstances, whatever they may be. 1 Samuel 16:22 Saul sent to Jesse, saying, "Let David now stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight." BGT 1 Samuel 16:22 καὶ ἀπέστειλεν Σαουλ πρὸς Ιεσσαι λέγων παριστάσθω δὴ Δαυιδ ἐνώπιον ἐμοῦ ὅτι εὗρεν χάριν ἐν ὀφθαλμοῖς μου LXE 1 Samuel 16:22 And Saul sent to Jessae, saying, Let David, I pray thee, stand before me, for he has found grace in my eyes. KJV 1 Samuel 16:22 And Saul sent to Jesse, saying, Let David, I pray thee, stand before me; for he hath found favour in my sight. NET 1 Samuel 16:22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse saying, "Let David be my servant, for I really like him." CSB 1 Samuel 16:22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse: "Let David remain in my service, for I am pleased with him." ESV 1 Samuel 16:22 And Saul sent to Jesse, saying, "Let David remain in my service, for he has found favor in my sight." NIV 1 Samuel 16:22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse, saying, "Allow David to remain in my service, for I am pleased with him." NLT 1 Samuel 16:22 Then Saul sent word to Jesse asking, "Please let David remain in my service, for I am very pleased with him." NRS 1 Samuel 16:22 Saul sent to Jesse, saying, "Let David remain in my service, for he has found favor in my sight." NJB 1 Samuel 16:22 Saul then sent a message to Jesse, 'Let David stay in my service, since he has won my favour.' NAB 1 Samuel 16:22 and sent Jesse the message, "Allow David to remain in my service, for he meets with my approval." YLT 1 Samuel 16:22 And Saul sendeth unto Jesse, saying, 'Let David, I pray thee, stand before me, for he hath found grace in mine eyes.' 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL TAKES DAVID INTO HIS SERVICE Saul sent to Jesse, saying, "Let David now stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight - Jesse would hardly object to the king's request. Saul explains that he would like David to attend him as was pleased with him. 1 Samuel 16:23 So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him. BGT 1 Samuel 16:23 καὶ ἐγενήθη ἐν τῷ εἶναι πνεῦμα πονηρὸν ἐπὶ Σαουλ καὶ ἐλάμβανεν Δαυιδ τὴν κινύραν καὶ ἔψαλλεν ἐν τῇ χειρὶ αὐτοῦ καὶ ἀνέψυχεν Σαουλ καὶ ἀγαθὸν αὐτῷ καὶ ἀφίστατο ἀπ᾽ αὐτοῦ τὸ πνεῦμα τὸ πονηρόν LXE 1 Samuel 16:23 And it came to pass when the evil spirit was upon Saul, that David took his harp, and played with his hand: and Saul was refreshed, and it was well with him, and the evil spirit departed from him. KJV 1 Samuel 16:23 And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him. NET 1 Samuel 16:23 So whenever the spirit from God would come upon Saul, David would take his lyre and play it. This would bring relief to Saul and make him feel better. Then the evil spirit would leave him alone. CSB 1 Samuel 16:23 Whenever the spirit from God troubled Saul, David would pick up his lyre and play, and Saul would then be relieved, feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him. ESV 1 Samuel 16:23 And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him. NIV 1 Samuel 16:23 Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul; he would feel better, and the evil spirit would leave him. NLT 1 Samuel 16:23 And whenever the tormenting spirit from God troubled Saul, David would play the harp. Then Saul would feel better, and the tormenting spirit would go away. NRS 1 Samuel 16:23 And whenever the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand, and Saul would be relieved and feel better, and the evil spirit would depart from him. NJB 1 Samuel 16:23 And whenever the spirit from God came over Saul, David would take a harp and play; Saul would then be soothed; it would do him good, and the evil spirit would leave him. NAB 1 Samuel 16:23 Whenever the spirit from God seized Saul, David would take the harp and play, and Saul would be relieved and feel better, for the evil spirit would leave him. YLT 1 Samuel 16:23 And it hath come to pass, in the spirit of sadness from God being on Saul, that David hath taken the harp, and played with his hand, and Saul hath refreshment and gladness, and the spirit of sadness hath turned aside from off him. RSV 1 Samuel 16:23 And whenever the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand; so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him. NKJ 1 Samuel 16:23 And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him. the evil spirit: 1Sa 16:14,16 Saul: 1Sa 18:10,11 Mt 12:43-45 Lu 11:24-26 1 Samuel 16 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries THE EFFECT OF DAVID'S PLAYING ON SAUL'S CONDITION So it came about whenever the evil spirit from God came to Saul, David would take the harp and play it with his hand; and Saul would be refreshed and be well, and the evil spirit would depart from him - Note the sequence - Saul seized, David plays, Saul refreshed and well, Spirit departs. J J Knap - Loins Girded - A Relief 1 Samuel 16:23 Many beautiful things have been said about the power of sound in reference to David’s playing of the harp before King Saul, when he was startled by an evil spirit, and found, at least for some moments, relief in listening to the fair youth’s playing of strings, who bestowed by his psalms upon the world an imperishable blessing. Who shall tell how many have been lifted up by them throughout the course of the centuries, how much gloominess has been wiped away from dejected faces by them, and how much light the psalms have brought into melancholy hearts? Oh, such a charming power goes forth from the psalms, by which the evil spirits in heart and house must depart. If they were not only sung on the day of rest in the house of prayer, but also in the family circle, and if it would become a rule that there would be no home amongst us without the lovely harp, there would be less place for bitterness and wrath, sour moods and vehement outbursts, altogether dissonants that don’t fit with the harmony of the holy song. Nobody ever needs to be at a loss concerning the choice of the song. The psalms are as diverse as the heart that finds an echo of all its affections in them, and then in such a manner that it is refreshed by them at the same time. Is our heart cast down within us, let the psalm of the panting hart sound from the strings; it asks us so faithfully why our heart is bowed down within us and what our soul is disquieted about; it stirs us so kindly to remember our former trust and to find again our desire in the praise of the Almighty One, even if tears are our daily food,—is it not true, this provides us relief? Have we been caught by sin; let the psalms of penitence arise from our depressed innermost: “Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear unto my cry; hold not thy peace at my tears.” They bring us into the depth, but still allow in that depth of destruction to hear the tones of redemption and salvation, of compassion and peace,—is it not true, this provides us relief? When we are compassed by the fears of death, then let it sound, let it be prayed, let it be sung towards the heavens, the song of praise of Him who can, and will and shall in need, even when death approaches, provide complete relief,—is it not true, this provides us relief? The harp upon the wall! The harp in the hand! The harp in the heart! David always provides relief because from him sings forth the gospel of the great Son of David, Jesus Christ, the gospel, that sings of the redemption of sin by the blood of the cross, and of the renewal of the heart by the Holy Spirit, the gospel that is one song of praise upon the rich compassion of our God. R C