In
those days the word of the Lord was rare. (1 Samuel 3:1)
Let's
examine the climate into which Samuel is born. We've recently completed Judges,
in which the theme was, In
those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit (Judges
21:25). Consider the conditions that came from the time of the judges.
Notice
that Hannah is described as barren. In the Bible, this almost always foreshadows
that something of significance is about to happen. Joseph, Samson and Samuel
all share that distinction of being born of barren women.
Also
consider the transitional role that Samuel is about to play. He is the last
judge and the first prophet of Israel
No
Extra Charge: He revealed himself to Samuel
through his word (1 Samuel 3:21).
In those days the word of the Lord was rare. These days most people have
a Bible sitting around somewhere gathering dust? Know what I’m saying?
In
reading God's word, what has he revealed about himself to you?
I had assumed that most Judges were prophets, how else were they to know what God wanted them to do. Couldn't Samuel also be considered a Judge, he certainly had the charisma and leadership ability also had life and death power. P. Carr
ReplyDeleteWhat is the difference between a Judge and a prophet. I had assumed that Samuel was a judge because he apparently had life & death powers and made legal decisions as well communicated with God. P.Carr
ReplyDeleteJudges were charismatic leaders who were recognized by the people as having something special needed to rescue them in their time of distress. There are not many, if any, lengthy speeches from judges whereby they speak on behalf of God.
ReplyDeleteSamuel does share characteristics of both judge and prophet and he has been described by some as Israel's last judge and first prophet.
Not really sure what you mean by life and death powers.