“Now Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him.”
Historical Context:The book of 1 Samuel takes place during a transitional period in Israel’s history. The Israelites had requested a king, and Saul was anointed as the first king of Israel. However, due to Saul’s disobedience, God rejected him as king and chose David as his successor. 1 Samuel 3 is a significant chapter where Samuel, who would become an influential prophet and judge, receives his call from God.
Samuel’s Background:At the time of this verse, Samuel was a young boy serving in the tabernacle under the high priest Eli. Samuel’s mother, Hannah, had dedicated him to the Lord, and he had been given into Eli’s care. However, Samuel had not yet received a personal encounter or revelation from the Lord.
Lack of Knowledge of the Lord:The verse states that Samuel “did not yet know the Lord.” This does not necessarily imply that Samuel had never heard about God or had no awareness of Him. Instead, it suggests that Samuel had not yet received a direct, personal encounter with God or experienced a divine revelation. Up until this point, Samuel’s knowledge of God was likely based on what he had learned from Eli and through observation.
The Word of the Lord Not Revealed:Additionally, the verse mentions that “the word of the Lord” had not been revealed to Samuel. This refers to the fact that Samuel had not yet received a prophetic message directly from God. Samuel had not yet experienced the privilege of receiving divine communication or being entrusted with God’s messages for His people.
Significance and Application:1 Samuel 3:7 highlights the beginning of Samuel’s journey as a prophet and servant of God. It emphasizes the fact that Samuel’s initial understanding of God and His ways was limited. However, this verse also foreshadows the transformative encounter Samuel was about to have with God, which would launch him into his prophetic ministry.
This verse teaches us several valuable lessons:
- Personal Encounter with God: It emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship and encounter with God. Even those who have grown up in a religious environment or have learned about God from others need their own personal revelation and connection with Him.
- Divine Revelation: The verse reminds us that God reveals Himself and His will to individuals in His timing. It is God who chooses when and how to make Himself known to us, and we should be open and receptive to His voice.
- God’s Calling: Samuel’s story also highlights God’s ability to call and use individuals from a young age. God can choose and work through anyone, regardless of their age or background.
- Spiritual Growth: Like Samuel, we are all on a journey of spiritual growth and understanding. Our knowledge of God may start from a limited perspective, but as we seek Him and remain open to His leading, He will continue to reveal Himself to us, deepening our relationship with Him.
