1 Samuel 16:1-13 Summary
The Rejection of Eliab and His Brothers
In 1 Samuel 16:1-13, we read about the story of how God chose David to be the next king of Israel. This chapter is a continuation of God's plan to replace King Saul, who had disobeyed Him.
God Rejects Eliab and His Brothers
The Lord instructed Samuel, the prophet, to go to Jesse's house in Bethlehem, because He had chosen one of Jesse's sons to be the next king (1 Samuel 16:1-3). When Samuel arrived, Jesse presented his sons, starting with Eliab, the eldest. However, the Lord rejected Eliab, saying that He does not look at outward appearances but at the heart (1 Samuel 16:6-7).
David, the Unlikely Choice
Samuel then asked Jesse if he had any other sons, and Jesse presented seven of his sons, but God rejected all of them (1 Samuel 16:10). It was then that Samuel asked if Jesse had any other sons, and Jesse mentioned David, the youngest son, who was tending the sheep (1 Samuel 16:11).
David was summoned, and when he arrived, the Lord said, "Rise and anoint him; this is the one" (1 Samuel 16:12). Samuel anointed David with oil, and the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him (1 Samuel 16:13).
Key Takeaways
- God does not look at outward appearances but at the heart.
- God's choice is often unexpected and may not align with human expectations.
- David, the unlikely choice, was chosen by God to be the next king of Israel.
