The book of 1 Samuel revolves around and introduces three main characters in order: Samuel, Saul, and David and their interaction over a period of many years. The story begins at the end of the era of Judges. Eli is the high priest who officiates at the Tabernacle. Eli has gotten old and has two sons who help him, but they are immoral and corrupt. This is where Samuel enters the picture; as a little boy, he is given to the Lord’s service by his mother and left with Eli. Samuel grows up to be a prophet and great leader for Israel; he gains the trust of the people who follow his guidance until the people ask for a king like the other nations have.
The second person to enter the story is Saul whom God chooses to be king. Samuel introduces Saul to the people, warns them about the consequences of having a king, and anoints Saul. For some time, Saul is a good king leading his army to protect his people and defeat their enemies. But after a time, Saul begins to disobey God’s direction and Samuel has to tell him God has chosen someone else to be king after Saul. At this time God sends a troubling spirit to Saul; whether this is a spirit being or a bi-polar disorder we are not told.
Next Samuel anoints David as the next king. Through his heroics, David becomes the favorite of the people causing Saul to plot ways to get David out of the way. Saul loses all sight of reality and eventually loses his life with David beginning his reign as king.
Outline:
1A. Enter Samuel – Chapters 1 – 7
2A. Enter Saul – Chapters 8 – 15
3A. Enter David – Chapters 16 – 31
Key Verse: I Samuel 15:22-23
22 But Samuel replied,
“What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to his voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.23 Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, and stubbornness as bad as worshiping idols. So because you have rejected the command of the Lord, he has rejected you as king.” 1 Sam 15:22-23 (NLT)