1 Samuel 16:6
And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him.
1 Samuel 16:6 (KJV)
Context
This verse sits within the larger narrative of 1 Samuel 16, where God sends the prophet Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king from the house of Jesse, following Saul’s rejection because of his disobedience. Samuel arrives, sanctifies Jesse and his sons, and calls them to the sacrifice. When they come, Samuel looks on Eliab, Jesse’s firstborn son, and declares, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is before him.” God had already told Samuel that He would show him the chosen one among Jesse’s sons.
Meaning
Samuel’s statement reflects his human judgment based on outward appearance, likely influenced by Eliab’s position as the eldest and possibly his bearing. The immediate context, especially the following verse (1 Samuel 16:7), clarifies that God corrects Samuel’s assumption, stating that He looks not on outward appearance but on the heart. This verse highlights the principle that human judgment is often based on external factors, while God’s choice is based on inner character. Even a prophet can make a mistaken judgment when relying on outward signs.
Biblical connections
Eliab is identified as Jesse’s firstborn in 1 Chronicles 2:13, and is also called Elihu in 1 Chronicles 27:18. The phrase “the LORD’s anointed” is significant, as it is used elsewhere in Scripture, such as in 1 Samuel 24:6, where David refuses to harm Saul because he is “the LORD’s anointed,” showing the respect due to God’s chosen one. The eventual anointing of David (1 Samuel 16:13) symbolized the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for a specific purpose. The verse also serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate anointing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate “LORD’s anointed,” who was empowered by the Holy Spirit for His messianic ministry.
Application
The passage calls believers to trust God’s choices, avoid judging by appearances, and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in discerning God’s will. It reminds us to be obedient and open to God’s leading, knowing that He equips and empowers those He selects for His purposes.
Reflection
God’s instruction to Samuel that “one of the sons of Jesse shall be anointed” (1 Samuel 16:3) underscores His sovereign authority in choosing leaders. Although Samuel first focused on Eliab, God later directed his attention to David, the youngest son, demonstrating that God’s plans are independent of human opinion. This encourages confidence in God’s sovereign choices, even when they appear unexpected.
