1 Samuel – The Rise of Kings and Prophets

🌿 Introduction

“And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.” – 1 Samuel 3:10

The Book of 1 Samuel marks a turning point in the history of God’s people—it’s the bridge between the time of the judges and the establishment of the monarchy. It begins with the heartfelt prayer of Hannah and ends with the tragic downfall of King Saul. Throughout, we witness God’s divine hand raising up a humble prophet, defeating giants, and preparing a shepherd boy to be Israel’s greatest king.

In these chapters, we walk with Samuel the prophet, Saul the chosen-yet-fallen king, and David the giant-slayer and man after God’s own heart. It’s a story of transition, of listening to God’s voice amidst chaos, and of His plan unfolding despite human failure. This book teaches us how the Lord chooses the lowly and raises them up when they walk in obedience.

📜 Structure of 1 Samuel

  • Chapters 1–7: The Rise of Samuel and the Fall of Eli’s House
  • Chapters 8–15: The Reign and Rejection of King Saul
  • Chapters 16–31: The Anointing and Ascent of David

💡 Key Themes

  • God’s Sovereignty over Kings and Kingdoms
  • Listening to God’s Voice
  • Obedience vs. Disobedience
  • The Heart over Appearance
  • Anointing and Calling

👑 Key People to Watch For

  • Samuel – Last judge, first prophet of the monarchy
  • Saul – Israel’s first king who fell by pride
  • David – A shepherd boy chosen to lead
  • Hannah – A praying mother whose faith moved heaven
  • Jonathan – A true friend with unwavering loyalty

🔥 Why This Book Still Matters

1 Samuel reminds us that God sees not as man sees. “For man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). It shows us that God’s plans may begin in hidden places—like a shepherd field or a barren womb—but when He moves, even giants fall. It points to Jesus, the true Anointed One, who leads with perfect obedience and unshakable love.

Ready to Go Deeper?

👉 Click here to begin reading 1 Samuel chapter 1

Or, if you’d like to jump to a specific chapter in Genesis, simply click the chapter number below:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 | 31