MPV Commentary

Samuel Sent by God to Bethlehem.

The Lord said to Samuel, "How long will you mourn for Saul?" Samuel's grief over Saul's rejection was understandable, but it conflicted with his public duty as a prophet. The Lord had already declared His intention to transfer the kingdom of Israel from Saul to another ruler, and this decision was not open to change. To confirm this unalterable decree, God sent Samuel on a private mission to anoint a successor to Saul (see 1Sa 10:1). This was crucial for the nation's future, especially in light of the uncertainty surrounding Saul's life.

The Lord said, "I have provided me a king." This statement implies a distinction between this new ruler and Saul. While Saul was chosen by the people, often driven by their own desires for honor and power, the next king would be selected with consideration for God's glory. The tribe from which this new king would come had been promised preeminence earlier (Ge 49:10).

Samuel responded, "How can I go?" This shows another instance of human weakness in Samuel. Since God had sent him on this mission, He would protect and enable him to carry it out.

Samuel explained that he was coming to sacrifice, which was a customary practice for him when visiting different areas (see Ex 19:14-15). As the offerer, he had the right to invite anyone he pleased to join in the social feast following the peace offering.

The elders of Bethlehem trembled at Samuel's arrival. This obscure town was not within his usual circuit as a judge, and they naturally assumed that his visit was motivated by some extraordinary reason, possibly connected to the strained relationship between Samuel and King Saul.

Samuel instructed the elders to sanctify themselves in preparation for the sacrifice (Ex 19:14-15). He took great care to ensure the sanctification of Jesse's family as well. Some interpret this as an invitation for the elders to join in the sacrifice, while others believe that only Jesse's family was invited to the subsequent feast.

Samuel said, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before him." In making this statement, Samuel fell into the same error as before (1Sa 10:24), judging based on external appearances rather than spiritual discernment.