It is suggested that you read from Amos 8:11–12 and Hebrews 1:1–4 together with 1 Samuel 3.
Introduction
Reflect on what it means for God’s Word to be absent. Why would this be a particular concern if you were living in Israel under the terms of the old covenant? What does it show about the relationship between God and his people?
The call of God’s prophet
Explain: how is God’s decision to call Samuel a testimony to his grace?
Explain: what is the meaning of the phrase,
Samuel did not know the Lord
?Explain: what is the task of the prophet? Why is this task such a challenge? How does Eli help Samuel in this task?
Explain: what did the prophets do who came after Samuel? What was the hope to which they testified?
Explain: who is the chief and final prophet that was sent by God? What are the implications of Jesus’ coming for where we must go to look for a word from God today?
The responsibility of God’s prophet
Explain: what does it mean for Christian believers to share in Christ’s anointing? What is the prophetic task that has been given to all believers?
Apply: what will it mean to confess Christ to this world (our speaking task)?
Apply: what will it mean to listen to God? Why is it so important to listen before we speak? What stops us from listening?
1 Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD in the presence of Eli. And the word of the LORD was rare in those days; there was no frequent vision.