1 Samuel 3:1-10: The Call of Samuel
The Background
In the book of 1 Samuel, chapter 3, we read about the call of Samuel, a young prophet who would become a key figure in Israel's history. The story takes place during a time of spiritual darkness in Israel, where the word of the Lord was rare, and visions were not widespread (1 Samuel 3:1).
The Setting
The scene is set in Shiloh, a city in the heart of Israel, where the tabernacle of the Lord was located. Eli, the high priest, was old and blind, and his sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were corrupt and wicked. Meanwhile, Samuel, a young boy, was serving the Lord under Eli's guidance.
The Call of Samuel
One night, as Samuel was sleeping, he heard a voice calling his name. He thought it was Eli calling him, so he ran to Eli's bedside, saying, "Here I am, for you called me." But Eli responded, "I did not call; lie down again." This happened three times, with Samuel running to Eli's bedside each time, only to be told that Eli did not call him.
The Revelation
On the fourth time, Samuel heard the voice again, saying, "Samuel, Samuel!" This time, Eli realized that it was the Lord calling the boy. He instructed Samuel to respond by saying, "Speak, Lord, for your servant hears." Samuel obeyed, and the Lord began to reveal Himself to the young prophet.
The Message
The Lord spoke to Samuel, saying, "Behold, I will do something in Israel at which both ears of everyone who hears it will tingle. On that day I will fulfill against Eli all that I have spoken concerning his house, from beginning to end. For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them" (1 Samuel 3:11-13).
The Significance
Samuel's call marked the beginning of a new era in Israel's history. It signaled a shift from the corrupt priesthood of Eli to the prophetic ministry of Samuel, who would anoint the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David. The story of Samuel's call also highlights the importance of obedience and spiritual sensitivity, as Samuel's willingness to listen to the Lord's voice paved the way for his future ministry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the call of Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:1-10 serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Despite the spiritual darkness of the time, God raised up a young prophet to bring hope and restoration to His people. May Samuel's story inspire us to be attentive to the Lord's voice and obedient to His will.
