The Lord Calls Samuel: Understanding Divine Communication in 1 Samuel 3

Executive Summary — 1 Samuel 3: Listening for God’s Voice

1 Samuel 3 details the pivotal moment when the Lord calls Samuel, marking his transition from a young servant in the temple to a prophet of Israel. This chapter beautifully illustrates the process of discerning God’s voice amidst the noise of the world, emphasizing the importance of spiritual mentorship and a receptive heart. Through Samuel’s initial misunderstanding and Eli’s guidance, we learn how to distinguish divine communication from our own thoughts. This chapter speaks powerfully to the modern Christian, urging us to cultivate a listening spirit, seek wise counsel, and recognize the persistent, loving call of God in our lives. Ultimately, the calling of Samuel teaches us the vital lesson of obedience and unwavering commitment to God’s will, a journey of faith that resonates through the ages, compelling us to deepen our understanding of The Lord Calls Samuel in our own lives.

Introduction: 1 Samuel 3 paints a vivid picture of Samuel’s early years serving under Eli in the tabernacle at Shiloh. But more than just a historical account, it’s a profound lesson on recognizing and responding to God’s voice. In a time when prophetic visions were rare, God chose to reveal Himself to a young, innocent heart, setting in motion a new era for Israel. This chapter invites us to explore the nuances of divine communication and the importance of spiritual discernment.

Commentary: Verse-by-Verse Analysis of 1 Samuel 3

1 Samuel 3:1 – Spiritual Dimness

“And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision.” (KJV)
“Now the boy Samuel ministered to the Lord before Eli. And the word of the Lord was rare in those days; there was no widespread revelation.” (NKJV)

The opening verse highlights a spiritual decline in Israel. The “word of the Lord was precious” (or rare) and “there was no open vision.” This wasn’t simply a lack of prophetic activity; it reflected a broader spiritual apathy and a disconnect from God. The Greek Septuagint (LXX) renders “λόγος Κυρίου σπάνιος” (logos Kyriou spanios) meaning “the word of the Lord was scarce”. This scarcity suggests a lack of genuine seeking and obedience to God’s commandments. Just as darkness diminishes light, sin clouds the spiritual eye and dulls our capacity to hear God. We, too, can find ourselves in periods of spiritual dryness, where the presence of God seems distant. The remedy? Diligent service to the Lord, as Samuel demonstrated. Practicing consistent prayer, studying scripture, and engaging in acts of service can reignite our spiritual fire. Consider using a website builder if you don’t have a website for your church and connect more people.

1 Samuel 3:2-3 – Physical and Spiritual Darkness

“And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see; And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the Lord, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;” (KJV)

The dimming eyes of Eli serve as a metaphor for the declining spiritual leadership in Israel. His physical blindness mirrors the spiritual blindness that had settled upon the nation. The lamp of God, symbolizing God’s presence and guidance, was about to go out. Yet, Samuel, the young boy, was present near the Ark of God. This stark contrast sets the stage for God’s intervention. This reminds us of the prophetic words of Isaiah 60:2, “For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory will be seen upon you.” Even in the darkest of times, God’s light shines on those who are faithful. We must guard the flame of faith within us, ensuring it doesn’t flicker and fade amidst the surrounding darkness. This can be done by keeping our focus on Christ. St. Athanasius of Alexandria wrote: “Γινώσκετε ἑαυτοὺς, καὶ γνώσεσθε τὸν Θεόν” (Ginōskete heautous, kai gnōsesthe ton Theon) – “Know yourselves, and you shall know God” (Athanasius, *De Incarnatione*, 3). Understanding ourselves is necessary to understanding our relationship with God.

1 Samuel 3:4-8 – The Call and the Misunderstanding

“That the Lord called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I. And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down. And the Lord called Samuel again. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And Eli perceived that the Lord had called the child. ” (KJV)

This section highlights the crucial role of spiritual guidance. Samuel, in his innocence, didn’t recognize God’s voice and attributed it to Eli. Three times he ran to his mentor. This emphasizes the importance of mentorship in discerning God’s will. Eli, despite his own spiritual shortcomings, recognized the divine call and instructed Samuel. This act of humility and guidance is commendable. We are called to seek wise counsel from experienced Christians who can help us discern God’s voice. As St. Basil the Great said: “Μὴ καταλίπῃς τὴν παρακαταθήκην φυλάξαι διὰ τοῦ Πνεύματος τοῦ Ἁγίου τοῦ ἐνοικοῦντος ἐν ἡμῖν” (Mē katalipēs tēn parakatathēkēn phylaxai dia tou Pneumatos tou Hagiou tou enoikountos en hēmin) – “Guard the deposit entrusted to you through the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” (2 Timothy 1:14). The Holy Spirit within us gives the ability to discern true guidance from false. Ask yourself: Am I seeking guidance from godly mentors? Am I receptive to correction and instruction? Are there other services I may have need of to help me in this area?

1 Samuel 3:9-10 – Instruction and Obedience

“Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place. And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.” (KJV)

Eli’s instruction to Samuel is pivotal: “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.” This phrase encapsulates the essence of a receptive heart. It signifies a willingness to listen and obey God’s will, even before knowing what that will entails. This act of obedience paved the way for Samuel to receive a direct revelation from God. Obedience is not blind; it is an act of trust in God’s wisdom and love. St. Irenaeus of Lyons writes: “ἡ δὲ δόξα τοῦ Θεοῦ ζῶν ἄνθρωπος” (hē de doxa tou Theou zōn anthrōpos) – “The glory of God is man fully alive.” (Irenaeus, *Adversus Haereses*, 4.20.7). By aligning our will with God’s, we become fully alive and glorify Him. Are we truly prepared to say, “Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth,” regardless of the cost?

1 Samuel 3:11-14 – The Prophecy of Judgment

“And the Lord said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every one that heareth it shall tingle. In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end. For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not. And therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli’s house shall not be purged with sacrifice nor offering for ever.” (KJV)

The prophecy Samuel receives is a somber one, foretelling judgment upon Eli’s house due to his sons’ wickedness and Eli’s failure to restrain them. This underscores the seriousness of sin and the consequences of neglecting our responsibilities, especially as leaders and parents. God’s justice is unwavering, and He holds us accountable for our actions and inactions. The weight of this prophecy must have been immense for young Samuel. It highlights the difficult nature of prophetic ministry, which often involves delivering uncomfortable truths. This shows that we must be prepared to tell the truth in love, even when it is difficult. St. Cyril of Alexandria: “ἡ ἀγάπη μακροθυμεῖ” (hē agapē makrothymei) – “Love is patient”. (1 Corinthians 13:4). Love means being patient with others, but also challenging them in a way that reveals truth. Are we willing to confront sin in our own lives and in the lives of those we care about?

1 Samuel 3:15-18 – Samuel’s Reluctance and Eli’s Acceptance

“And Samuel lay until the morning, and opened the doors of the house of the Lord. And Samuel feared to shew Eli the vision. Then Eli called Samuel, and said, Samuel, my son. And he answered, Here am I. And he said, What is the thing that the Lord hath said unto thee? hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide any thing from me of all the things that he said unto thee. And Samuel told him every whit, and hid nothing from him. And he said, It is the Lord: let him do what seemeth him good.” (KJV)

Samuel’s initial reluctance to share the prophecy with Eli is understandable. It was a message of judgment against his mentor and father figure. However, Eli, demonstrating remarkable spiritual maturity, compels Samuel to reveal the truth. Eli’s acceptance of God’s will, even when it meant personal suffering, is a powerful example of submission and trust. This demonstrates the willingness to accept God’s will regardless of outcome. This reminds us of the words of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Are we willing to embrace God’s will, even when it is painful or difficult?

1 Samuel 3:19-21 – Samuel’s Growing Influence

“And Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground. And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the Lord. And the Lord appeared again in Shiloh: for the Lord revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the Lord. ” (KJV)

The concluding verses emphasize Samuel’s growing influence and the validation of his prophetic ministry. “The Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.” This signifies that Samuel’s words were confirmed by God, demonstrating the accuracy and power of his prophetic insights. All Israel recognized him as a prophet of the Lord. This speaks to the importance of living a life that aligns with our words, so that our actions demonstrate our faith. Also, we see that God continues to communicate with Samuel. It is an encouragement to us that our relationship with God grows continually. We must continually seek and listen to God. This shows the power of God working with an individual who has a heart for Him. “Αὕτη ἐστὶν ἡ νίκη ἡ νικήσασα τὸν κόσμον, ἡ πίστις ἡμῶν” (Hautē estin hē nikē hē nikēsasa ton kosmon, hē pistis hēmōn) – “This is the victory that has overcome the world, our faith.” (1 John 5:4). The faith that overcomes the world is the power that God places in individuals to grow his kingdom. Are we living a life that validates our words, and are we open to continued growth in our relationship with God?

Subtopic Sections

Here are some key reflections and teachings gleaned from 1 Samuel 3:

• Discerning God’s Voice: The chapter teaches us the importance of learning to distinguish God’s voice from our own thoughts and desires. This requires prayer, meditation on Scripture, and guidance from mature believers.
• Spiritual Mentorship: Eli’s role in guiding Samuel highlights the value of spiritual mentorship. We should seek out wise and experienced Christians who can help us discern God’s will.
• Obedience to God’s Call: Samuel’s willingness to obey God’s call, even when it was difficult, is a model for us. We must be willing to follow God’s leading, even when it means stepping outside our comfort zone.
• The Consequences of Sin: The prophecy of judgment against Eli’s house underscores the seriousness of sin and the importance of accountability. We must be diligent in guarding against sin in our own lives and in the lives of those we are responsible for.
• God’s Unwavering Justice: God is just and will hold us accountable for our actions. We should live our lives with a sense of reverence and responsibility, knowing that we will one day give an account for our deeds.
• Persistent Faith: Even in times of spiritual darkness, God is still at work. We must remain faithful and persistent in seeking Him, trusting that He will reveal Himself to those who diligently seek Him.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 1 Samuel 3:

• Q: Why didn’t Samuel recognize God’s voice at first?
  A: Samuel was young and inexperienced in spiritual matters. He was accustomed to hearing Eli’s voice and naturally assumed it was Eli calling him. This highlights the importance of spiritual training and discernment.
• Q: What does the rarity of visions in 1 Samuel 3:1 signify?
  A: It signifies a period of spiritual decline and disconnect between God and His people. This was due to the people turning from God’s commandments, resulting in fewer prophetic voices.
• Q: What is the significance of Eli’s dimming eyesight?
  A: Eli’s dimming eyesight serves as a metaphor for his declining spiritual discernment and leadership. He was physically and spiritually losing his ability to guide the people of Israel.
• Q: How can we apply the lessons of 1 Samuel 3 to our lives today?
  A: We can apply the lessons by cultivating a listening spirit, seeking wise counsel, being obedient to God’s call, and remaining steadfast in our faith even in times of spiritual darkness. This involves active seeking through prayer and study.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 3 offers a timeless lesson on hearing and heeding God’s call. The story of Samuel, a young boy transformed into a prophet, speaks directly to our modern search for meaning and purpose. In a world saturated with distractions, The Lord Calls Samuel reminds us to cultivate a quiet, receptive heart. By seeking wise counsel and embracing obedience, we can learn to discern God’s voice amidst the noise. We can learn to be more in touch with The Lord and with others with the right professional guidance. The chapter challenges us to examine our own spiritual discernment, our willingness to be mentored, and our commitment to fulfilling God’s purpose in our lives. As we, like Samuel, offer ourselves as willing servants, saying, “Speak, Lord; for your servant is listening,” we open ourselves to a life of purpose, guided by the unwavering love and direction of the Almighty.

Tags

Samuel, Eli, Lord, Prophet, Vision, Shiloh, Ark of God, Call, Discernment, Obedience

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Explore 1 Samuel 3: The Lord Calls Samuel. Discover how to discern God’s voice, the importance of spiritual mentors, and the power of obedience in this verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary.