1 Samuel 12

< Back to 1 Samuel Index

TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Samuel’s Farewell Address to Israel

Printed Version

BACKGROUND NOTES

DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

God’s people need to be reminded about the proof of God’s faithfulness.

God’s people need to be warned about the possibility of their own unfaithfulness.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Let’s not sin by failing to pray for others.

Let’s remember to remember!

QUESTIONS

Why did all the people gather at Gilgal?

Now that all the people affirmed Saul’s kingship, what did Samuel do?

Did Samuel retire from ministry at this point?

What was the point of Samuel recounting the history of Israel from the Exodus until the victory of King Saul over the Ammonites?

Did God’s faithfulness to His people end because they wrongly desired a king?

ANSWERS

To confirm Saul as the king of all Israel

Samuel stepped down from his recognized position as judge in Israel. This chapter is his farewell address.

No, he continued to carry on his priestly and prophetic duties within Israel, but his administrative responsibilities as judge were relinquished.

To show that God was faithful and righteous in all His dealings with His people.

No, God continued to be faithful. He will never abandon His people.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

Samuel recounted the history of Israel to remind the people of God’s righteous acts and faithfulness. Believers today need to be reminded of this as well. Briefly recount your history. Does it testify of 1 Corinthians 1:9?

Recall a time in your life that you were unfaithful to the Lord. How did God’s discipline demonstrate His faithfulness to you? See Hebrews 12:7 and 1 Peter 4:17.

CHALLENGE

We are a forgetful people, who quickly forget God’s faithfulness to us. Set aside time this week to reflect on what God has done for you. “Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.” 1 Samuel 12:24

KEY VERSES

“If you fear the LORD and serve Him and obey His voice, and do not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then both you and the king who reigns over you will continue following the LORD your God.” 1 Samuel 12:14

“Far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.” 1 Samuel 12:23