1 Samuel 24

Matthew Henry · Citado em PreceptAustin

1 Samuel 24

Henry - We have hitherto had Saul seeking an opportunity to destroy David, and, to his shame, he could never find it. In this chapter David had a fair opportunity to destroy Saul, and, to his honour, he did not make use of it; and his sparing Saul's life was as great an instance of God's grace in him as the preserving of his own life was of God's providence over him. I. How maliciously Saul sought David's life (1Sa 24:1, 2). II. How generously David saved Saul's life (when he had him at an advantage) and only cut off the skirt of his robe (1Sa 24:3-8). Now when Saul returned from pursuing the Philistines - Recall that it was God's providential intervention (1Sa 23:27,28+) which forced King Saul to purse the real enemy, the Philistines, thus enabling the "pseudo-enemy," David and his 600 men, to escape "Slippery Rock" and almost certain defeat by Saul's forces. Saul does not seem to get the message that God is sending -- He will protect David from Saul's sword - whether by sending the Philistines or by making Saul prophesy in 1Sa 19:18-23, 24+. He was told, saying, "Behold (hinneh; Lxx = idou) David is in the wilderness (midbār; Lxx - eremos) of Engedi." - Were these spies or regular folks who sought to curry favor with the king (cf Ziphites in 1Sa 23:19+)? Either way, it is clear that the beat goes on, the beat of hatred in Saul's dark heart against David.

1 Samuel 24

Henry - By the frequent incursions of the Philistines, Saul might have seen how necessary it was to recall David from his banishment and restore him to his place in the army again; but so far is he from doing this that now more than ever he is exasperated against him, THOUGHT - "Saul had been providentially blocked while pursuing David by the invading Philistines. But now, as soon as this hindrance was removed, he redoubled his evil efforts. O unsaved reader (ED: I WOULD ADD EVEN "SAVED READER!"), has it been thus with you? Your course of self-pleasing was suddenly checked by an illness? Your round of pleasure seeking was stopped by a sick bed? Opportunity was given you to consider the interest of your immortal soul, to humble yourself beneath the mighty hand of God. Perhaps you did so in a superficial way, but what has been the sequel? Health and strength have been mercifully restored by God, but are they being used for his glory, or are you now vainly pursuing the phantoms of this world harder than ever?" (A W

1 Samuel 24

Henry - See how apt we are to misunderstand both (1) the promises of God. God had assured David that he would deliver him from Saul, and his men interpret this as a warrant to destroy Saul. (2) And the providences of God. Because it was now in his power to kill him, they concluded he might lawfully do it.

1 Samuel 24

Henry - Sin is a thing which we should startled at, and resist the temptations, not only with resolution, but with a holy indignation (ED: AND THE ENABLING POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT GIVING US THE DESIRE AND THE POWER TO RESIST! see Php 2:13NLT+). David considered Saul not as his enemy, and the only person that stood in the way of his preferment (for then he would be induced to hearken to the temptation), but as God's anointed (that is, the person whom God had appointed to reign as long as he lived, and who, as such, was under the particular protection of the divine law), and as his master, to whom he was obliged to be faithful. Let servants and subjects learn hence to be dutiful and loyal, whatever hardships are put upon them (cf 1 Pt. 2:18+). Robert Vannoy on for he is the anointed of the LORD. See 1Sa 24:10; 26:9, 11, 16, 23; 2Sa 1:14, 16. Because Saul’s royal office carried divine sanction by virtue of his anointing (see note on 1Sa 9:16), David is determined not to wrest the kingship from Saul but to leave its disposition to the Lord who gave it (vv. 12, 15; 26:10). (Borrow NIV Study Bible) (Note - Priests were also anointed (Ex 29:7; 40:12–15; Lev 4:3; 8:12), but from this point in the OT it is usually the king who is referred to as “the LORD’s anointed” (see note on 1Sa 2:10; see also 1Sa 24:6; 26:9, 11, 16; 2 Sa 1:14, 16; 19:21; cf. Ps 2:2; but see also Zec 4:14). Anointing signifies being set apart to the Lord for a particular task and divine equipping for the task (1Sa 10:1, 6; 16:13; Isa 61:1).) ESV Study Bible - The anointed of the Lord should not be killed or even cursed (cf. 26:9; Ex. 22:28; 2 Sam. 1:14; 19:21). (Borrow ESV Study Bible) Guzik draws an interesting application from not touching the LORD'S anointed - The phrase touch not the Lord’s anointed is in vogue among some Christians and among many leaders. Often to them it means: “You should never speak against a pastor or a leader. He is above your criticism or rebuke, so just keep quiet.” Sometimes it is used even to prevent a Biblical evaluation of teaching. But when David recognized that Saul was the LORD’s anointed and refused to harm him, what David would not do is kill Saul. He did humbly confront Saul with his sin, hoping Saul would change his heart. But it is entirely wrong for people to use the idea of touch not the Lord’s anointed to insulate a leader from all evaluation or accountability. Apple - The Sanctity of the Lord’s Anointed Must Take Precedence Over Personal Ambition and Even Common Sense. Anointed (04899) mashiach/masiyah from mashach = to smear, anoint) is Hebrew word that in almost all OT uses is found in a compound phrase. It is a masculine noun which can function as an adjective (as in Lev 4:3,5, 16) which means "anointed." This Hebrew word is used several times to prophetically picture the Messiah, the Christ (1Sa 2:10, 35, Da 9:25-26). In the OT, priests, prophets and kings were anointed and all these offices were fulfilled in "the Mashiach," the Messiah. Swanson - anointed one, i.e., a person having sacred oil poured ceremonially on one’s head, and so become a person with special authority and function, with the implication of one having the choice and approval of God. Lxx translates mashiach in this verse (and most of the 38 uses in the OT) with the adjective Christos which describes one who has been anointed, symbolizing appointment to a task; as a title for Jesus, designating him as the Messiah sent from God (Jn 1:41, Jn 4:25 [Greek = messias], Ro 6:4). BDAG - Christos = "fulfiller of Israelite expectation of a deliverer, the Anointed One, the Messiah, the Christ." Lord (0113) 'adon is a masculine noun meaning lord or master. he basic meaning of ʾādôn is "lord," "king," "master," "superintendent" or "owner." Examples of ʾādôn in reference to men are Gen. 45:8, 9; Ps. 105:21 ("head" of, or "superintendent" of, a household); 1 Ki. 16:24; Gen. 40:7; Exo. 21:4, 6, 8, 32 ("proprietor," "master"); Neh. 3:5 ("governor"); Gen. 42:10, 30, 33 ("prince"); 1 Ki. 1:27 ("king"). The most frequent usage is of a human lord, but it is also used of divinity. Generally, it carries the nuances of authority rather than ownership. When used of humans, it refers to authority over slaves (Ge. 24:9; Jdg. 19:11); people (1 Ki. 22:17); a wife (Gen. 18:12; Amos 4:1); or a household (Gen. 45:8; Ps. 105:21). When used of divinity, it frequently occurs with yehōwāh, signifying His sovereignty (Ex. 34:23; Josh. 3:13; Isa. 1:24). Adon in First Samuel - 1 Sam. 1:15; 1 Sam. 1:26; 1 Sam. 16:16; 1 Sam. 20:38; 1 Sam. 22:12; 1 Sam. 24:6; 1 Sam. 24:8; 1 Sam. 24:10; 1 Sam. 25:10; 1 Sam. 25:14; 1 Sam. 25:17; 1 Sam. 25:24; 1 Sam. 25:25; 1 Sam. 25:26; 1 Sam. 25:27; 1 Sam. 25:28; 1 Sam. 25:29; 1 Sam. 25:31; 1 Sam. 25:41; 1 Sam. 26:15; 1 Sam. 26:16; 1 Sam. 26:17; 1 Sam. 26:18; 1 Sam. 26:19; 1 Sam. 29:4; 1 Sam. 29:8; 1 Sam. 29:10; 1 Sam. 30:13; 1 Sam. 30:15; The Lord's Anointed - 1 Samuel 24:6-7 Many motorists have had at least one encounter with the people whom truckers call "smokies." Their official name is the highway patrol. And when the red and blue lights on top of their car begin to flash, you know you had better pull over. Whether you have any personal affection for the person behind the badge or not, you still have to respect his position. He has been given the authority to enforce the rules of the road, and your feelings have nothing to say about it. David had the same attitude toward Saul. It must have been difficult to muster any feeling of devotion for a man who was trying to kill him. Furthermore, the king's motives and actions were often irrational. Still, Saul had not been removed from his position as the king of Israel. As a result, David had to treat Saul with honor as God's anointed leader even though he could not approve of his actions. The position deserved respect whether or not the man did. As we interact with pastors and other Christian leaders, there will be some with whom we might disagree theologically. Others may have methods that we think are inappropriate. Yet because they are individuals called to serve the Lord in a special way, we must respect their position even when we disagree with them personally. If you are struggling to respect your pastor or another Christian leader, remember their position. You don't have to agree with them, but you do have to treat them with the consideration due their calling. (Back to the Bible) If you can't respect the person, respect the position. 1 Samuel 24:7 David persuaded his men with these words and did not allow them to rise up against Saul. And Saul arose, left the cave, and went on his way. BGT 1 Samuel 24:8 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ ἔπεισεν Δαυιδ τοὺς ἄνδρας αὐτοῦ ἐν λόγοις καὶ οὐκ ἔδωκεν αὐτοῖς ἀναστάντας θανατῶσαι τὸν Σαουλ καὶ ἀνέστη Σαουλ καὶ κατέβη εἰς τὴν ὁδόν LXE 1 Samuel 24:7 So David persuaded his men by his words, and did not suffer them to arise and slay Saul: and Saul arose and went his way. KJV 1 Samuel 24:7 So David stayed his servants with these words, and suffered them not to rise against Saul. But Saul rose up out of the cave, and went on his way. NET 1 Samuel 24:7 David restrained his men with these words and did not allow them to rise up against Saul. Then Saul left the cave and started down the road. CSB 1 Samuel 24:7 With these words David persuaded his men, and he did not let them rise up against Saul. Then Saul left the cave and went on his way. ESV 1 Samuel 24:7 So David persuaded his men with these words and did not permit them to attack Saul. And Saul rose up and left the cave and went on his way. NIV 1 Samuel 24:7 With these words David rebuked his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. And Saul left the cave and went his way. NLT 1 Samuel 24:7 So David restrained his men and did not let them kill Saul.After Saul had left the cave and gone on his way, NRS 1 Samuel 24:7 So David scolded his men severely and did not permit them to attack Saul. Then Saul got up and left the cave, and went on his way. NJB 1 Samuel 24:8 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) By these words David restrained his men and would not let them attack Saul. NAB 1 Samuel 24:8 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) With these words David restrained his men and would not permit them to attack Saul. Saul then left the cave and went on his way. YLT 1 Samuel 24:7 And David subdueth his men by words, and hath not permitted them to rise against Saul; and Saul hath risen from the cave, and goeth on the way; GWN 1 Samuel 24:7 So David stopped his men by saying this to them and didn't let them attack Saul. Saul left the cave and went out onto the road. persuaded: Heb. cut off, Ps 7:4 Mt 5:44 Ro 12:17-21 did not allow: 1Sa 25:33 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries RESTRAINED DAVID RESTRAINS HIS MEN David persuaded (KJV = stayed) his men with these words and did not allow them to rise up against Saul. And Saul arose, left the cave, and went on his way - Not only would David not slay Saul, but he would not allow his men to slay Saul, and they capitulated to his commands, showing the growing respect they have for David as their leader. Apple - Godly Leadership Can Protect the Impetuous From Grave Error David's example is a clear OT illustration of the truth Paul proclaimed in Romans 12 Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. 18If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. 19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. 20 “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) ; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” 21 Do not be overcome (present imperative with a negative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) by evil, but overcome (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) evil with good. (Ro 12:17-21+) 1 Samuel 24:8 Now afterward David arose and went out of the cave and called after Saul, saying, "My lord the king!" And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated himself. BGT 1 Samuel 24:9 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ ἀνέστη Δαυιδ ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ ἐκ τοῦ σπηλαίου καὶ ἐβόησεν Δαυιδ ὀπίσω Σαουλ λέγων κύριε βασιλεῦ καὶ ἐπέβλεψεν Σαουλ εἰς τὰ ὀπίσω αὐτοῦ καὶ ἔκυψεν Δαυιδ ἐπὶ πρόσωπον αὐτοῦ ἐπὶ τὴν γῆν καὶ προσεκύνησεν αὐτῷ LXE 1 Samuel 24:8 And David rose up and went after him out of the cave: and David cried after Saul, saying, My lord, O king! and Saul looked behind him, and David bowed with his face to the ground, and did obeisance to him. KJV 1 Samuel 24:8 David also arose afterward, and went out of the cave, and cried after Saul, saying, My lord the king. And when Saul looked behind him, David stooped with his face to the earth, and bowed himself. NET 1 Samuel 24:8 Afterward David got up and went out of the cave. He called out after Saul, "My lord, O king!" When Saul looked behind him, David kneeled down and bowed with his face to the ground. CSB 1 Samuel 24:8 After that, David got up, went out of the cave, and called to Saul, "My lord the king!" When Saul looked behind him, David bowed to the ground in homage. ESV 1 Samuel 24:8 Afterward David also arose and went out of the cave, and called after Saul, "My lord the king!" And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the earth and paid homage. NIV 1 Samuel 24:8 Then David went out of the cave and called out to Saul, "My lord the king!" When Saul looked behind him, David bowed down and prostrated himself with his face to the ground. NLT 1 Samuel 24:8 David came out and shouted after him, "My lord the king!" And when Saul looked around, David bowed low before him. NRS 1 Samuel 24:8 Afterwards David also rose up and went out of the cave and called after Saul, "My lord the king!" When Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground, and did obeisance. NJB 1 Samuel 24:9 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Saul then left the cave and went on his way. After this, David too left the cave and called after Saul, 'My lord king!' Saul looked behind him and David, bowing to the ground, prostrated himself. NAB 1 Samuel 24:9 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) David also stepped out of the cave, calling to Saul, "My lord the king!" When Saul looked back, David bowed to the ground in homage YLT 1 Samuel 24:8 and David riseth afterwards, and goeth out from the cave, and calleth after Saul, saying, 'My lord, O king!' And Saul looketh attentively behind him, and David boweth -- face to the earth -- and doth obeisance. GWN 1 Samuel 24:8 Later, David got up, left the cave, and called to Saul, "Your Majesty!" When Saul looked back, David knelt down with his face touching the ground. My lord: 1Sa 26:17 David bowed: 1Sa 20:41 1Sa 25:23,24 Ge 17:3 Ex 20:12 Ro 13:7 1Pe 2:17 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries DAVID'S RESPECT OF SAUL Now afterward David arose and went out of the cave - How dangerous is David's move? It is wise or foolish? Who is outside the cave? Saul's 3000 crack troops! But clearly God is "behind the scenes" controlling the scenes He is behind (see especially 1Sa 24:10)! This was not a "cave coincidence" but a "providential pop test!" David was the student and God was seeking to refine His student, not kill him. So in that sense what David did was not foolish, because God would not have let Saul's men touch the LORD'S anointed. It was a case of "reverse anointing" so to speak for both men were anointed king! and called after Saul, saying, "My lord ('adon; Lxx = kurios) the king!" - David addresses Saul with an attitude of submission (my lord) and respect (the king) which would have said to both Saul (and David's men) that he was not a rebel. So here begins the longest recorded conversation between David and Saul in First Samuel (David 114 Hebrew words and Saul 67 Hebrew words). Clearly this is a significant, even pivotal event in the book of First Samuel. David begins by blessing (my lord...king), not cursing (Ro 12:14+), demonstrating another facet of why he is a progressively growing into a man after God's own heart. And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated (shachah; Lxx = proskuneo) himself - David could have fallen on Saul with an attack in the cave, but instead he falls on his face before Saul. David does not just speak submissively, but his actions support his words - bowed and prostrated himself making himself very vulnerable before Saul. In a sense he surrendered himself to Saul.

1 Samuel 24

Henry - David followed Saul out of the cave, and, though he would not take the opportunity to slay him, yet he wisely took the opportunity, if possible, to slay his enmity, by convincing him that he was not such a man as he took him for. 1 Samuel 24:10 "Behold, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD had given you today into my hand in the cave, and some said to kill you, but my eye had pity on you; and I said, 'I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD'S anointed.' BGT 1 Samuel 24:11 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) ἰδοὺ ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ταύτῃ ἑοράκασιν οἱ ὀφθαλμοί σου ὡς παρέδωκέν σε κύριος σήμερον εἰς χεῖρά μου ἐν τῷ σπηλαίῳ καὶ οὐκ ἠβουλήθην ἀποκτεῖναί σε καὶ ἐφεισάμην σου καὶ εἶπα οὐκ ἐποίσω χεῖρά μου ἐπὶ κύριόν μου ὅτι χριστὸς κυρίου οὗτός ἐστιν LXE 1 Samuel 24:10 Behold, thine eyes have seen this day how that the Lord has delivered thee this day into my hands in the cave; and I would not slay thee, but spared thee, and said, I will not lift up my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed. KJV 1 Samuel 24:10 Behold, this day thine eyes have seen how that the LORD had delivered thee to day into mine hand in the cave: and some bade me kill thee: but mine eye spared thee; and I said, I will not put forth mine hand against my lord; for he is the LORD'S anointed. NET 1 Samuel 24:10 Today your own eyes see how the LORD delivered you– this very day– into my hands in the cave. Some told me to kill you, but I had pity on you and said, 'I will not extend my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD's chosen one.' CSB 1 Samuel 24:10 You can see with your own eyes that the LORD handed you over to me today in the cave. Someone advised me to kill you, but I took pity on you and said: I won't lift my hand against my lord, since he is the LORD's anointed. ESV 1 Samuel 24:10 Behold, this day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you today into my hand in the cave. And some told me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, 'I will not put out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD's anointed.' NIV 1 Samuel 24:10 This day you have seen with your own eyes how the LORD delivered you into my hands in the cave. Some urged me to kill you, but I spared you; I said, 'I will not lift my hand against my master, because he is the LORD's anointed.' NLT 1 Samuel 24:10 This very day you can see with your own eyes it isn't true. For the LORD placed you at my mercy back there in the cave. Some of my men told me to kill you, but I spared you. For I said, 'I will never harm the king-- he is the LORD's anointed one.' NRS 1 Samuel 24:10 This very day your eyes have seen how the LORD gave you into my hand in the cave; and some urged me to kill you, but I spared you. I said, 'I will not raise my hand against my lord; for he is the LORD's anointed.' NJB 1 Samuel 24:11 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) This very day you have seen for yourself how Yahweh put you in my power in the cave and how, refusing to kill you, I spared you saying, "I will not raise my hand against my lord, since he is Yahweh's anointed." NAB 1 Samuel 24:11 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) You see for yourself today that the LORD just now delivered you into my grasp in the cave. I had some thought of killing you, but I took pity on you instead. I decided, 'I will not raise a hand against my lord, for he is the LORD'S anointed and a father to me.' YLT 1 Samuel 24:10 Lo, this day have thine eyes seen how that Jehovah hath given thee to-day into my hand in the cave; and one said to slay thee, and mine eye hath pity on thee, and I say, I do not put forth my hand against my lord, for the anointed of Jehovah he is. GWN 1 Samuel 24:10 Today you saw how the LORD handed you over to me in the cave. Although I was told to kill you, I spared you, saying, 'I will not raise my hand against Your Majesty because you are the LORD's anointed.' some said to kill you: 1Sa 24:4 26:8 the LORD'S anointed: 1Sa 26:9 Ps 105:15 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Matthew 5:44+ “But I say to you, love (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) your enemies and pray (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) for those who persecute you, DAVID CONTINUES HIS DEFENSE Behold (hinneh; Lxx = idou), this day your eyes have seen that the LORD had given you today into my hand in the cave, and some said to kill you - David is like a defense attorney pleading his case and begins here with "eyewitness" evidence, evidence that Saul himself had witnessed! David makes it very clear that the hand of the LORD brought Saul into the cave. It was no accident that Saul came unguarded into that one specific cave. David is trying to get Saul to see that this was indeed the LORD Who caused this to happen. David is also telling Saul he resisted the pressure from his own men to kill him! but my eye had pity on you - ESV, NIV - "but I spared you" NLT - "For the LORD placed you at my mercy back there in the cave." David now gives two reason he resisted the urging of his own men, the first being that he had pity on him and secondly that he was the LORD's anointed. and I said, 'I will not stretch out my hand against my lord ('adon; Lxx = kurios), for he is the LORD'S anointed (mashiach ;Lxx = Christos)- Notice David's humble submission to two "lords" his "lord" Saul and his LORD Jehovah. As stated David explains ("for" = term of explanation) why he would not seek to harm Saul - he was the LORD'S anointed. Yes David was the LORD's anointed but he was willing to wait the LORD's timing. Bergen adds "David treated the king properly, not because of anything the king had done or might do, but because of what the Lord had done. David’s respect for human authority was based on his respect for divine authority." (Borrow NAC - 1,2 Samuel) QUESTION - Why was David so loyal to Saul after everything Saul had done to him? ANSWER - The primary reason David was loyal to Saul was the anointing King Saul had received from the Lord. In other words, the Lord was the One who chose Saul to be king, and David refused to go against God’s will. On one occasion when David had the opportunity to kill Saul, he refrained, saying, “As surely as the Lord lives . . . the Lord himself will strike him, or his time will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. But the Lord forbid that I should lay a hand on the Lord’s anointed” (1 Samuel 26:10–11). David believed Saul was in God’s hands and that he was forbidden to put Saul to death himself. In addition, David considered Saul’s life precious and of tremendous value. Though David had killed men in war, he would not kill Saul (1 Samuel 26:24). David had great faith in God’s plan and timing. As long as God wanted Saul to be king, David would wait. He would not take matters into his own hands. On another occasion, David and his men were hiding in a cave that Saul entered to relieve himself. David was near enough to Saul to cut off the edge of his robe, yet he would not kill him. Instead he said, “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lay my hand on him; for he is the anointed of the Lord” (1 Samuel 24:6). Saul was the one God had selected to lead the nation of Israel. Samuel had physically anointed Saul with oil when God selected him as king. First Samuel 10:1 says, “Samuel took a flask of olive oil and poured it on Saul’s head and kissed him, saying, ‘Has not the Lord anointed you ruler over his inheritance?’” The meaning of the physical anointing was that Saul was set apart by God for leadership. David respected God’s choice. The young David had also been anointed as the future king of Israel. First Samuel 16:13 records, “Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David.” It would be many years before God would place him as the official king of the nation, but David knew from experience what it meant to be the Lord’s anointed. Eventually, Saul did fall in battle, in God’s own timing. This event was bittersweet, as both Saul, who wanted to take David’s life, and Jonathan, who was David’s best friend, were killed on the same day. First Samuel 31 records this battle in which Saul and his sons perished in a battle against the Philistines. Following Saul’s death, David was appointed king of Judah for seven years before becoming king of all Israel. In total, David would rule for 40 years as king, serving as the Lord’s anointed. He had treated the previous king with great respect and later received the role himself, being called a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). GotQuestions.org David's Restraint I will not stretch out my hand against my lord. — 1 Samuel 24:10 Today's Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:1-22 The relationship between David and King Saul is one of the strangest and most volatile recorded in the Bible. David came to Saul’s rescue on several occasions (as a harp player and as a warrior), he was best friends with the king’s son, and he married the king’s daughter. Now, don’t you think such a person would be in pretty good standing with the monarch? Not David. Saul was out to get the former shepherd boy. Twice Saul tried to spear David while he was playing the harp for him. And later, Saul sent his troops after the young man to try to kill him. Yet look at what happened when the two finally crossed paths and David had the chance to kill Saul. Instead of attacking him, David sneaked up and cut off a piece of his robe. Afterward, he felt guilty even for doing that (1 Samuel 24:5). When they later met face to face, David told the king, “My hand shall not be against you” (v.13). Saul saw that David had rewarded his evil with good, and he wept (vv.16-17). I want the love that always sweetly bears Whate'er my Father's hand may choose to send; I want the love that patiently endures The wrongs that come from enemy or friend. —Anon. Revenge restrained is a victory gained. The Eyes Of Mercy Someone urged me to kill you. But my eye spared you. — 1 Samuel 24:10 Today's Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:1-15 When a Michigan deer hunter found a 100-pound buck struggling to get out of a mud-bog in which it was hopelessly stuck, the hunter couldn’t bring himself to squeeze the trigger. Instead, he and his hunting partner snared the animal with a rope and pulled it out of the mud. The deer then bolted to freedom. The hunter later recalled, “When you see a deer like that, eyeball to eyeball, it’s a little different. I think the eyes did it, that longing look, as if to say, ‘What are you going to do?'” This account bears an interesting parallel to the incident recorded in 1 Samuel 24. Saul was in a defenseless situation when David and his armed men found him in a cave. David had good reason to kill Saul. Yet he showed mercy. He knew that the Lord had made Saul king of Israel, and he was not about to take the life of the Lord’s anointed—even though it would have been easy (v.10). Love is giving for the world's needs, Love is sharing as the Spirit leads, Love is caring when the world cries, Love is compassion with Christlike eyes. | —Brandt Love always seeks to help—never to hurt. Not My Hand I said, "I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed." — 1 Samuel 24:10 Today's Scripture: 1 Samuel 24:1-15 There are times when it’s best to wait for God to act instead of trying to make things happen ourselves. It’s a lesson we see clearly when David refused to take King Saul’s life, even though the king was trying to kill him (1 Samuel 24). When Saul was alone and vulnerable in a cave, David’s men told him this was a God-given opportunity to take the kingship that rightfully belonged to him (v.4). But David refused, saying, “The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, to stretch out my hand against him” (v.6). After Saul left the cave, David called out to him, “Let the Lord judge between you and me, and let the Lord avenge me on you. But my hand shall not be against you” (v.12). David knew that God had chosen him to become king. But he also knew that killing Saul was not the right way to make it happen. He would wait for God to remove Saul from the throne. Is there an obstacle between you and something that is rightfully yours? You believe it’s God’s will, but the method of obtaining it and the timing don’t seem right. Think long and pray hard before taking a bad path toward a good goal. O God, make me one of those rarest of souls Who willingly wait for Thy time; My impatient will must be lost in Thine own, And Thy will forever be mine. —Bowser God's timing is always right—wait patiently for Him. 1 Samuel 24:11 "Now, my father, see! Indeed, see the edge of your robe in my hand! For in that I cut off the edge of your robe and did not kill you, know and perceive that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands, and I have not sinned against you, though you are lying in wait for my life to take it. BGT 1 Samuel 24:12 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ ἰδοὺ τὸ πτερύγιον τῆς διπλοΐδος σου ἐν τῇ χειρί μου ἐγὼ ἀφῄρηκα τὸ πτερύγιον καὶ οὐκ ἀπέκταγκά σε καὶ γνῶθι καὶ ἰδὲ σήμερον ὅτι οὐκ ἔστιν κακία ἐν τῇ χειρί μου οὐδὲ ἀσέβεια καὶ ἀθέτησις καὶ οὐχ ἡμάρτηκα εἰς σέ καὶ σὺ δεσμεύεις τὴν ψυχήν μου λαβεῖν αὐτήν LXE 1 Samuel 24:11 And behold, the skirt of thy mantle is in my hand, I cut off the skirt, and did not slay thee: know then and see to-day, there is no evil in my hand, nor impiety, nor rebellion; and I have not sinned against thee, yet thou layest snares for my soul to take it. KJV 1 Samuel 24:11 Moreover, my father, see, yea, see the skirt of thy robe in my hand: for in that I cut off the skirt of thy robe, and killed thee not, know thou and see that there is neither evil nor transgression in mine hand, and I have not sinned against thee; yet thou huntest my soul to take it. NET 1 Samuel 24:11 Look, my father, and see the edge of your robe in my hand! When I cut off the edge of your robe, I didn't kill you. So realize and understand that I am not planning evil or rebellion. Even though I have not sinned against you, you are waiting in ambush to take my life. CSB 1 Samuel 24:11 See, my father! Look at the corner of your robe in my hand, for I cut it off, but I didn't kill you. Look and recognize that there is no evil or rebellion in me. I haven't sinned against you even though you are hunting me down to take my life. ESV 1 Samuel 24:11 See, my father, see the corner of your robe in my hand. For by the fact that I cut off the corner of your robe and did not kill you, you may know and see that there is no wrong or treason in my hands. I have not sinned against you, though you hunt my life to take it. NIV 1 Samuel 24:11 See, my father, look at this piece of your robe in my hand! I cut off the corner of your robe but did not kill you. Now understand and recognize that I am not guilty of wrongdoing or rebellion. I have not wronged you, but you are hunting me down to take my life. NLT 1 Samuel 24:11 Look, my father, at what I have in my hand. It is a piece of the hem of your robe! I cut it off, but I didn't kill you. This proves that I am not trying to harm you and that I have not sinned against you, even though you have been hunting for me to kill me. NRS 1 Samuel 24:11 See, my father, see the corner of your cloak in my hand; for by the fact that I cut off the corner of your cloak, and did not kill you, you may know for certain that there is no wrong or treason in my hands. I have not sinned against you, though you are hunting me to take my life. NJB 1 Samuel 24:12 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Look, father, look at the border of your cloak in my hand. Since, although I cut the border off your cloak, I did not kill you, surely you realise that I intend neither mischief nor crime. I have not wronged you, and yet you hunt me down to take my life. NAB 1 Samuel 24:12 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Look here at this end of your mantle which I hold. Since I cut off an end of your mantle and did not kill you, see and be convinced that I plan no harm and no rebellion. I have done you no wrong, though you are hunting me down to take my life. YLT 1 Samuel 24:11 'And, my father, see, yea see the skirt of thine upper robe in my hand; for by cutting off the skirt of thy upper robe, and I have not slain thee, know and see that there is not in my hand evil and transgression, and I have not sinned against thee, and thou art hunting my soul to take it! GWN 1 Samuel 24:11 My master, look at this! The border of your robe is in my hand! Since I cut off the border of your robe and didn't kill you, you should know and be able to see I mean no harm or rebellion. I haven't sinned against you, but you are trying to ambush me in order to take my life. my father: 1Sa 18:27 2Ki 5:13 Pr 15:1 no evil: 1Sa 26:18 Ps 7:3-5 Ps 35:7 Joh 15:25 you are lying in wait for my life: 1Sa 23:14,23 26:20 Job 10:16 Ps 140:11 La 4:18 Eze 13:18 Mic 7:2 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: 1 Samuel 18:27 David rose up and went, he and his men, and struck down two hundred men among the Philistines. Then David brought their foreskins, and they gave them in full number to the king, that he might become the king’s son-in-law. So Saul gave him Michal his daughter for a wife. Psalm 7:3-5O LORD my God, if I have done this, If there is injustice in my hands, 4 If I have rewarded evil to my friend, Or have plundered him who without cause was my adversary, 5 Let the enemy pursue my soul and overtake it; And let him trample my life down to the ground And lay my glory in the dust. Selah. DAVID PRESENTS THE EDGE EVIDENCE Now, my father, see! - Recall that Saul is actually David's father-in-law because he is married to Saul's daughter Michal. Robert Vannoy on my father. See also Saul’s address to David as “my son” (1Sa 24:16). David uses this form of address either because (1) Saul was David’s father-in-law (1Sa 18:27) or because (2) the special relationship between father and son was at times used as a metaphor for an intimate relationship between king and subject (see notes on 2 Sa 7:14; Ps 2:7; see also chart, p. 26).(Borrow NIV Study Bible) Henry - From a father one may expect compassion and a favourable opinion. For a prince to seek the ruin of any of his good subjects is as unnatural as for a father to seek the ruin of his own children. Indeed, see the edge of your robe in my hand! For in that I cut off the edge of your robe and did not kill you - Here is the material evidence. David shows Saul the indisputable proof which is clear evidence that David could have killed Saul, but had spared his life. know and perceive that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands and I have not sinned against you - David asserts he is not evil, rebellious or sinful regarding Saul and the edge of the robe backs up his defense. In short David says "Not guilty!" Matthew Henry - I am not chargeable with any crime, nor conscious of any guilt, and, had I a window in my breast, thou mightest through it see the sincerity of my heart in this protestation. Perhaps it was about this time that David penned the seventh psalm, concerning the affair of Cush the Benjamite (that is, Saul, as some think), wherein he thus appeals to God (Ps 7:3-5): though you are lying in wait for my life to take it - While I am not trying to kill you, you are trying to kill me. 1 Samuel 24:12 "May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you. BGT 1 Samuel 24:13 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) δικάσαι κύριος ἀνὰ μέσον ἐμοῦ καὶ σοῦ καὶ ἐκδικήσαι με κύριος ἐκ σοῦ καὶ ἡ χείρ μου οὐκ ἔσται ἐπὶ σοί LXE 1 Samuel 24:12 The Lord judge between me and thee, and the Lord requite thee on thyself: but my hand shall not be upon thee. KJV 1 Samuel 24:12 The LORD judge between me and thee, and the LORD avenge me of thee: but mine hand shall not be upon thee. NET 1 Samuel 24:12 May the LORD judge between the two of us, and may the LORD vindicate me over you, but my hand will not be against you. CSB 1 Samuel 24:12 "May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD take vengeance on you for me, but my hand will never be against you. ESV 1 Samuel 24:12 May the LORD judge between me and you, may the LORD avenge me against you, but my hand shall not be against you. NIV 1 Samuel 24:12 May the LORD judge between you and me. And may the LORD avenge the wrongs you have done to me, but my hand will not touch you. NLT 1 Samuel 24:12 "May the LORD judge between us. Perhaps the LORD will punish you for what you are trying to do to me, but I will never harm you. NRS 1 Samuel 24:12 May the LORD judge between me and you! May the LORD avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you. NJB 1 Samuel 24:13 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) May Yahweh be judge between me and you, and may Yahweh avenge me on you; but I shall never lay a hand on you! NAB 1 Samuel 24:13 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) The LORD will judge between me and you, and the LORD will exact justice from you in my case. I shall not touch you. YLT 1 Samuel 24:12 'Jehovah doth judge between me and thee, and Jehovah hath avenged me of thee, and my hand is not on thee; GWN 1 Samuel 24:12 May the LORD decide between you and me. May the LORD take revenge on you for what you did to me. However, I will not lay a hand on you. Lord judge: 1Sa 26:10,23 Ge 16:5 Jdg 11:27 Job 5:8 Ps 7:8-9 Ps 35:1 Ps 43:1 Ps 94:1 Ro 12:19 1Pe 2:23 Rev 6:10 but my hand shall: 1Sa 26:11 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Psalm 7:8-9 The LORD judges the peoples; Vindicate me, O LORD, according to my righteousness and my integrity that is in me. 9O let the evil of the wicked come to an end, but establish the righteous; For the righteous God tries the hearts and minds. Psalm 35:1 A Psalm of David. Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; Fight against those who fight against me. Psalm 43:1 Vindicate me, O God, and plead my case against an ungodly nation; O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man! Psalm 94:1 O LORD, God of vengeance, God of vengeance, shine forth! Romans 12:19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord. 1 Peter 2:23 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously; DAVID PRAYS LORD'S WILL May the LORD judge between you and me - This is almost like a prayer and the Septuagint uses the optative mood which expresses a wish or a desire and often indicates a prayer. David expresses a two-fold wish (? prayer) from the LORD. David wishes for and is willing to accept the LORD's judgment, for he knows that Yahweh is the only fair and impartial Judge. This is another characteristic showing David is a man after God's own heart. In time God did judge for Saul would die by his own hand in battle (1Sa 31:1-6). THOUGHT- Are you (am I) content to leave matters in the hands of the Lord as David was? Bergen makes an interesting comment noting that "in attempting to kill an innocent man, Saul was violating the Torah and was in danger of bringing divine wrath upon himself (cf. Exod 23:7). The Lord, who is a judge with greater authority than any earthly king, would “judge between” David and Saul and “avenge the wrongs” (v. 12; Hb. v. 13). Thus David was actually pleading for Saul to save himself, not just to spare David. (Borrow NAC - 1,2 Samuel) and may the LORD avenge me on you - NIV = "may the LORD avenge the wrongs you have done to me." NET = "may the LORD vindicate me over you." CSB = "may the LORD take vengeance on you for me" David is not calling down a curse on Saul, but is leaving the matter entirely in the hands of the LORD, the best place to leave them! David's statement recalls the instruction of Paul when we are wronged by another "Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room (aorist imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) for the wrath of God, for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord." (Ro 12:19+). In this passage NEVER means just that - never. And David is an OT illustration of a man who practiced this NT principle. Here again we begin to see the molding of a man's character and what made David a man after God's own heart. THOUGHT - As we seek to imitate David and be a man or woman after God's own heart, are we holding back taking revenge on someone who has wronged us, even when (like David's case) to most people (human reasoning), we would be justified in taking our own revenge. David left it in the wise hands of his LORD and so should we beloved. I am not saying "grin and bear it," because I believe the only way we can imitate David's actions here is by being filled with the Holy Spirit and certainly not by being filled with personal wrath or bitterness. There is not a hint of bitterness in David's lengthy speech to Saul. This is a man or woman after God's own heart! but my hand shall not be against you - GWN - "However, I will not lay a hand on you." G Campbell

1 Samuel 24

Henry - Though wickedness proceed from the wicked, yet let it not therefore proceed from us by way of retaliation. Though the dog bark at the sheep, the sheep does not bark at the dog. Proverb (04912) mashal from the verb chakam - to be wise) is the ability to judge correctly and to follow the best course of action, based on knowledge and understanding. In the context of 1Sa 24:13 it refers to a traditional pithy statement that is generally assumed to be true. Wisdom is the ability to see something from God’s viewpoint. Wisdom is “God’s character in the many practical affairs of life.” Chokmah is the knowledge and the ability to make the right choices at the opportune time. The consistency of making the right choice is an indication of one's spiritual maturity. 1 Samuel 24:14 "After whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog, a single flea? BGT 1 Samuel 24:15 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ νῦν ὀπίσω τίνος σὺ ἐκπορεύῃ βασιλεῦ Ισραηλ ὀπίσω τίνος καταδιώκεις σύ ὀπίσω κυνὸς τεθνηκότος καὶ ὀπίσω ψύλλου ἑνός LXE 1 Samuel 24:14 And now after whom dost thou come forth, O king of Israel? After whom dost thou pursue? After a dead dog, and after a flea? KJV 1 Samuel 24:14 After whom is the king of Israel come out? after whom dost thou pursue? after a dead dog, after a flea. NET 1 Samuel 24:14 Who has the king of Israel come out after? Who is it that you are pursuing? A dead dog? A single flea? CSB 1 Samuel 24:14 Who has the king of Israel come after? What are you chasing after? A dead dog? A flea? ESV 1 Samuel 24:14 After whom has the king of Israel come out? After whom do you pursue? After a dead dog! After a flea! NIV 1 Samuel 24:14 "Against whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog? A flea? NLT 1 Samuel 24:14 Who is the king of Israel trying to catch anyway? Should he spend his time chasing one who is as worthless as a dead dog or a single flea? NRS 1 Samuel 24:14 Against whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom do you pursue? A dead dog? A single flea? NJB 1 Samuel 24:15 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) On whose trail is the king of Israel campaigning? Whom are you pursuing? On the trail of a dead dog, of a flea! NAB 1 Samuel 24:15 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Against whom are you on campaign, O king of Israel? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog, or a single flea! YLT 1 Samuel 24:14 'After whom hath the king of Israel come out? after whom art thou pursuing? -- after a dead dog! after one flea! GWN 1 Samuel 24:14 Against whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog? One flea? the king: 2Sa 6:20 1Ki 21:7 a dead dog: 1Sa 17:43 2Sa 3:8, 9:8, 16:9 a flea: 1Sa 26:20 Jdg 8:1-3 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: 1 Samuel 26:20+ “Now then, do not let my blood fall to the ground away from the presence of the LORD; for the king of Israel has come out to search for a single flea, just as one hunts a partridge in the mountains.” DAVID APPEALS TO SAUL'S NOBILITY AS KING After whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom are you pursuing? A dead dog, a single flea - David's language emphasizes the insignificance of his threat to Saul. David was humbling himself for dog was a term of reproach. Recalls that Goliath "said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” (1Sa 17:43+, cf 2Sa 3:8; 9:8; 16:9) In a sense David is also appealing to Saul's pride for what king would pursue a dead dog or a single flea. A dead dog could not even bite, even as David had not intention of harming Saul. And a flea bite would do no damage. The flea metaphor may also have referred to the fact that fleas are difficult to catch (I was raised on a farm and know this from first hand experience!) as they quickly jump from one place to another and are experts at hiding in a dog's hair! Bergen on dead dog - "With these words David tacitly accused the king of acting like a fool and squandering precious national resources. Yet the employment of rhetorical questions and unflattering comparisons of himself to a dead dog and a flea—all expressed in a poetic framework—helped to make David’s criticisms more palatable and poignant. (Borrow NAC - 1,2 Samuel) Deffinbaugh: David reminds the king that men can be known by their fruits. In the words of the ancient proverb, David quotes, “Out of the wicked comes forth wickedness” (verse 13). David has done nothing wicked toward Saul, and he assures Saul his hand will not be against him in the future (verse 13). He also reminds the king that his fears about David are exaggerated. David likens himself to a dead dog and to a single flea (verse 14). How can such a great man as Saul, with all his military might, can have such fears about David ? (A Time to Kill, or Not - 1 Samuel 24:1-22) Brian Bell observes that a single flea is "something harmless, elusive, unimportant. And like David, jumping about from one place to another!" Matthew Henry - It is below so great a king to enter the lists with one that is so unequal a match for him, one of his own servants, bred a poor shepherd, now an exile, neither able nor willing to make any resistance. To conquer him would not be to his honour, to attempt it was his disparagement. If Saul would consult his own reputation, he would slight such an enemy (supposing he were really his enemy) and would think himself in no danger from him. David was so far from aspiring that he was, in his own account, as a dead dog. Mephibosheth thus calls himself, 2 Sa. 9:8. This humble language would have wrought upon Saul if he had had any spark of generosity in him. What credit would it be to Saul to trample upon a dead dog? What pleasure could it be to him to hunt a flea, a single flea, which (as some have observed), if it be sought, is not easily found, if it be found, is not easily caught, and, if it be caught, is a poor prize, especially for a prince. David thinks Saul had no more reason to fear him than to fear a flea-bite. 1 Samuel 24:15 "The LORD therefore be judge and decide between you and me; and may He see and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand." BGT 1 Samuel 24:16 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) γένοιτο κύριος εἰς κριτὴν καὶ δικαστὴν ἀνὰ μέσον ἐμοῦ καὶ ἀνὰ μέσον σοῦ ἴδοι κύριος καὶ κρίναι τὴν κρίσιν μου καὶ δικάσαι μοι ἐκ χειρός σου LXE 1 Samuel 24:15 The Lord be judge and umpire between me and thee, the Lord look upon and judge my cause, and rescue me out of thy hand. KJV 1 Samuel 24:15 The LORD therefore be judge, and judge between me and thee, and see, and plead my cause, and deliver me out of thine hand. NET 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD be our judge and arbiter. May he see and arbitrate my case and deliver me from your hands!" CSB 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD be judge and decide between you and me. May He take notice and plead my case and deliver me from you." ESV 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD therefore be judge and give sentence between me and you, and see to it and plead my cause and deliver me from your hand." NIV 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD be our judge and decide between us. May he consider my cause and uphold it; may he vindicate me by delivering me from your hand." NLT 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD therefore judge which of us is right and punish the guilty one. He is my advocate, and he will rescue me from your power!" NRS 1 Samuel 24:15 May the LORD therefore be judge, and give sentence between me and you. May he see to it, and plead my cause, and vindicate me against you." NJB 1 Samuel 24:16 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) May Yahweh be the judge and decide between me and you; may he examine and defend my cause and give judgement for me by rescuing me from your clutches!' NAB 1 Samuel 24:16 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) The LORD will be the judge; he will decide between me and you. May he see this, and take my part, and grant me justice beyond your reach!" YLT 1 Samuel 24:15 And Jehovah hath been for judge, and hath judged between me and thee, yea, he seeth and pleadeth my cause, and doth deliver me out of thy hand.' GWN 1 Samuel 24:15 So the LORD must be the judge. He will decide between you and me. He will watch and take my side in this matter and set me free from you." be judge: 1Sa 24:12 2Ch 24:22 Mic 1:2 plead: Ps 35:1 43:1 Ps 119:154 Mic 7:9 deliver: 1Sa 26:4 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Psalms 35:1 A Psalm of David. Contend, O LORD, with those who contend with me; Fight against those who fight against me. Psalm 43:1 Vindicate me, O God, and plead my case against an ungodly nation; O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man! Psalm 119:154 Plead my cause and redeem me; Revive me according to Your word. DAVID RESTS HIS CASE WITH THE FINAL JUDGE & DEFENDER The LORD therefore be judge and decide between you and me; and may He see and plead ("defend" - NJB; "Advocate" - NLT) my cause and deliver me from your hand - Like 1Sa 24:12 above, this verse takes the form of a wish or a prayer and in the Septuagint is in the optative mood ("genoito kurios eis kriton" - "May the LORD be judge") Note all the verbs referring to Yahweh - judge, decide, see, plead (defend), deliver. David is trusting totally in the LORD's will and way. He rests his case with the Judge of all mankind, confident that he will be declared "not guilty." He is speaking the truth in love and clearly wants Saul to understand this and to soften his heart toward God and toward him. David is not about revenge but restoration of their former relations (recall that "Saul loved him greatly, and he became his armor bearer. " 1 Sa 16:21+). Bergen - David brought his address to a thundering conclusion by employing five consecutive hortatory clauses that have the Lord as the subject. This sustained appeal to the Lord is unparalleled in the Former Prophets and is rivaled only by the language of the Psalms. In these words David moved his focus away from Saul to look to an authority high above the king. He appealed to the Lord to (1) “be our judge, (2) “decide” the dispute, (3) “consider” his cause, (4) “uphold” it, and finally (5) “vindicate” him (1Sa 24:15NIV) (Borrow NAC - 1,2 Samuel) THOUGHT - The "Sauls" of this world and all the forces of Satan (cf "accuser" - Rev 12:10+) and hell will continually assail us and hound us and seek our lives, but we need not fear because we have a Covenant Defender, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who pleads with the Father and says, "This one is Mine, My possession (Titus 2:14+). I purchased him/her with My blood, once and for all!" (cf 1Jn 2:1NLT+) Can you see the personal application? We are in Covenant with the living God. He is our Protector. We do not have to defend ourselves. We do not take vengeance on anyone for what they say about us or do to us. We simply put on His garment of salvation (past tense - Gal 3:27+; present tense > Ro 13:14+, Eph 4:24+) and He will our Avenger. You can write it down in indelible ink! Now this does not mean we will never be harmed or never go through valleys (Ps 23:4). But God will avenge His people (now or later) because He has an eternal perspective regarding His perfect justice and vengeance. May God's Spirit grant us grace to rest in the sufficiency of the truth that we have a Covenant Defender in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen Help Us, O Jesus, Thou Mighty Defender Help us, O Jesus, Thou mighty Defender, Help when the forces of evil appear; Help us to battle and never surrender, Help us to conquer, and drive away fear; Satan is cunning, the prince of deceivers, Bringing disaster to many believers. Help us, O Jesus, in hours of temptation, When both our faith and our courage are weak; Teach us to look to the sign of salvation, And near Thy cross a new armor to seek; Then we shall conquer, if Thou wilt befriend us, Thou wilt prevail and our faith will defend us. Help us, O Jesus, when death shall spread terror, And our poor eyes are too feeble to see; Cleanse us and purge us from sin and from error; That we may blindly in faith cling to Thee; Help us, O Jesus, we conquer in dying, Unto the last on Thy mercy relying. With these words David confidently affirms that Yahweh is his Defender now and forever! While we do not know exactly when David wrote Psalm 62, but experiences such as 1 Samuel 24 undergirded his words such as in verse 6 He only is my Rock and my Salvation: He is my Defence; I shall not be moved. -- Psalm 62:6KJV Play David's song "HE IS MY DEFENSE" Sung by Yeshua follower Marty Goetz 1 Samuel 24:16 When David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son David?" Then Saul lifted up his voice and wept. BGT 1 Samuel 24:17 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ ἐγένετο ὡς συνετέλεσεν Δαυιδ τὰ ῥήματα ταῦτα λαλῶν πρὸς Σαουλ καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ ἦ φωνή σου αὕτη τέκνον Δαυιδ καὶ ἦρεν τὴν φωνὴν αὐτοῦ Σαουλ καὶ ἔκλαυσεν LXE 1 Samuel 24:16 And it came to pass when David had finished speaking these words to Saul, that Saul said, Is this thy voice, Son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept. KJV 1 Samuel 24:16 And it came to pass, when David had made an end of speaking these words unto Saul, that Saul said, Is this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept. NET 1 Samuel 24:16 When David finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is that your voice, my son David?" Then Saul wept loudly. CSB 1 Samuel 24:16 When David finished saying these things to him, Saul replied, "Is that your voice, David my son?" Then Saul wept aloud ESV 1 Samuel 24:16 As soon as David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son David?" And Saul lifted up his voice and wept. NIV 1 Samuel 24:16 When David finished saying this, Saul asked, "Is that your voice, David my son?" And he wept aloud. NLT 1 Samuel 24:16 When David had finished speaking, Saul called back, "Is that really you, my son David?" Then he began to cry. NRS 1 Samuel 24:16 When David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son David?" Saul lifted up his voice and wept. NJB 1 Samuel 24:17 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) When David had finished saying this to Saul, Saul said, 'Is that your voice, my son David?' And Saul began to weep aloud. NAB 1 Samuel 24:17 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) When David finished saying these things to Saul, Saul answered, "Is that your voice, my son David?" And he wept aloud. YLT 1 Samuel 24:16 And it cometh to pass, when David completeth to speak these words unto Saul, that Saul saith, 'Is this thy voice, my son David?' and Saul lifteth up his voice, and weepeth. GWN 1 Samuel 24:16 When David finished saying this, Saul asked, "Is that you speaking, my servant David?" and Saul cried loudly. Is this: 1Sa 26:17 Job 6:25 Pr 15:1 Pr 25:11 Lu 21:15 Ac 6:10 Saul lifted: Ge 33:4 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Luke 21:15 for I will give you utterance and wisdom which none of your opponents will be able to resist or refute. Acts 6:10 But they were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. SAUL REMORSEFUL RESPONSE When David had finished speaking these words to Saul - Saul allowed David to finish his relatively long discourse from 1Sa 24:9-15. 1 Samuel 24:16-21 records Saul's reply to David and reveal his confused mental state and his tears of remorse without repentance. Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son David?"- Is this your voice could be because Saul is somewhat removed from the cave. It also expresses Saul's shock that David would have shown him pity. He is so crazed with jealousy and fearful of David that he can hardly believe that this is the same man speaking who he had fabricated in his own warped thinking! Proverbs 16:7 says "When a man’s ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him." My son David suggests one effect of David's discourse and defense was to soften Saul at least temporarily. In fact David was Saul's son-in-law through marriage to his daughter Michal (1Sa 18:27,28+). It strikes me that David's sincere, heartfelt discourse was a gift from the LORD to Saul, God's attempt to bring Saul to the point of true repentance. Then Saul lifted up his voice and wept - This description indicates Saul was weeping audibly. David had practiced the NT principle of not being overcome by evil, but overcoming evil with good (Ro 12:21+) and it seemed to melt Saul's heart for the moment. As stated Saul weeping does not seem to be a reflection of a genuinely broken heart as his subsequent actions against David would attest. Saul's continued seeking to kill David in fact would prove that these were not the tears of a man with a broken and contrite heart but are still most likely "crocodile tears," a false display of grief as evidenced by his subsequent behavior. Robert Vannoy - Saul experiences temporary remorse (1Sa 26:21 “I have sinned.") for his actions against David but quickly reverts to his former determination to kill him (1Sa 26:2).(Borrow NIV Study Bible) Bergen - Formerly he had refused even to mention the name of his enemy (cf. 1Sa 20:27, 30–31; 22:7–9, 13); now he called him “David” (1Sa 24:16; Hb. v. 17). Formerly David was Saul’s son-in-law (cf. 1Sa 18:21); now he is “my son.” Saul was now emotionally broken and “wept aloud.” (Borrow NAC - 1,2 Samuel) Temporary remorse can look very impressive! -- Paul Apple Brian Bell agrees that "Saul’s tears were superficial and his conviction temporary. His tears never brought about repentance or a change of heart!" Saul is one man who never learned to really repent. Alan Redpath - “What a miserable picture Saul is! What is the use of saying, ‘I have played the fool,’ if he goes on playing the fool? What use are his tears and confession before David if he doesn’t act upon his remorse?....If a man is emotionally upset, as Saul was, and awakens to his condition, but only weeps about it and still doesn’t obey God, his second state is a thousand times worse than the first. Emotion that does not lead to action only leads deeper into sin and rebellion.”” (The Making of a Man of God - Life of David - PDF) Wikipedia on remorse - Remorse is a distressing emotion experienced by an individual who regrets actions which they have done in the past[1] that they deem to be shameful, hurtful, or wrong. Remorse is closely allied to guilt and self-directed resentment. When a person regrets an earlier action or failure to act, it may be because of remorse or in response to various other consequences, including being punished for the act or omission. People may express remorse through apologies, trying to repair the damage they've caused, or self-imposed punishments. 1 Samuel 24:17 He said to David, "You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me, while I have dealt wickedly with you. BGT 1 Samuel 24:18 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ πρὸς Δαυιδ δίκαιος σὺ ὑπὲρ ἐμέ ὅτι σὺ ἀνταπέδωκάς μοι ἀγαθά ἐγὼ δὲ ἀνταπέδωκά σοι κακά LXE 1 Samuel 24:17 And Saul said to David, Thou art more righteous that I, for thou hast recompensed me good, but I have recompensed thee evil. KJV 1 Samuel 24:17 And he said to David, Thou art more righteous than I: for thou hast rewarded me good, whereas I have rewarded thee evil. NET 1 Samuel 24:17 He said to David, "You are more innocent than I, for you have treated me well, even though I have tried to harm you! CSB 1 Samuel 24:17 and said to David, "You are more righteous than I, for you have done what is good to me though I have done what is evil to you. ESV 1 Samuel 24:17 He said to David, "You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. NIV 1 Samuel 24:17 "You are more righteous than I," he said. "You have treated me well, but I have treated you badly. NLT 1 Samuel 24:17 And he said to David, "You are a better man than I am, for you have repaid me good for evil. NRS 1 Samuel 24:17 He said to David, "You are more righteous than I; for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil. NJB 1 Samuel 24:18 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) 'You are upright and I am not,' he said to David, 'since you have behaved well to me, whereas I have behaved badly to you. NAB 1 Samuel 24:18 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Saul then said to David: "You are in the right rather than I; you have treated me generously, while I have done you harm. YLT 1 Samuel 24:17 And he saith unto David, 'More righteous thou art than I; for thou hast done me good, and I have done thee evil; GWN 1 Samuel 24:17 He told David, "You are more righteous than I. You treated me well while I treated you badly. You are: 1Sa 26:21 Ge 38:26 Ex 9:27 Ps 37:6 Mt 27:4 you have: Mt 5:44 Ro 12:20-21 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Matthew 5:44 “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, Romans 12:20-21 “BUT IF YOUR ENEMY IS HUNGRY, FEED HIM, AND IF HE IS THIRSTY, GIVE HIM A DRINK; FOR IN SO DOING YOU WILL HEAP BURNING COALS ON HIS HEAD.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. SAUL PASSES VERDICT ON HIMSELF AND DAVID He said to David, "You are more righteous than I; for you have dealt well with me - NET - "You are more innocent than I." This is Saul's longest unbroken quote in Scripture. Saul accurately assesses and rightly recognizes his unrighteous behavior on one hand and the righteous character of David on the other hand. Saul explains that the evidence of David's righteousness was the fact that he repaid Saul's evil with good (Ro 12:21+, 1Pe 3:9+, cf Pr 16:32)! David has passed God's "pop test" and in so doing is showing us how a man after God's own heart behaves in real life situations. while I have dealt wickedly with you - This sounds like Saul is confessing which is potentially a good sign. It is certainly a good step on the road to real repentance, but sadly it seems to stop here. Saul is seeing himself for who he has really been, but this is the first time he admits it. But his subsequent wicked actions toward David demonstrate his recognition of his personal sin is only temporary. Bob Utley on while I - This is an intensified structure that emphasizes the contrast between Saul's actions and David's actions. This relates back to 1Sa 24:12+. YHWH will judge between these two anointed leaders! Giving Good for Evil 1 Samuel 24:17-18 Then [Saul] said to David: "You are more righteous than I; for you have rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded you with evil. And you have shown this day how you have dealt well with me; for when the Lord delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me." A gentleman who had held many important positions in public life went to a friend in great anger over a real injury he had received from a prominent politician. He was considering how to react resentfully in the most effective manner. After relating the particulars to his friend, he asked if it would be manly to resent it. "Yes," replied his friend, "it would doubtless be manly to resent it, but it would be godlike to forget it." David chose to let God be his example. When Saul entered a cave to attend to his needs, he didn't know that David and his 400 men were hiding in the recesses of that cavern. David had him at a severe disadvantage and his men urged him to seize the opportunity to take revenge on his enemy. But David refused. Rather than seeking to repay Saul for the evil he had done him, he secretly cut off a piece of Saul's robe (as proof of what he could have done) and allowed the king to leave without knowing how close he had been to death. Only later did Saul realize the mercy David had shown. God's way is to show mercy rather than extract vengeance. Romans 5:8 says, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Even while we were God's enemies, He had compassion for us and provided a way of salvation. Are you thinking about getting even with someone? Don't do it. Try God's way instead. Return good for evil. Someday you'll be glad you did. (Back to the Bible) Evil for evil is man's way; good for evil is God's way. 1 Samuel 24:18 "You have declared today that you have done good to me, that the LORD delivered me into your hand and yet you did not kill me. BGT 1 Samuel 24:19 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ σὺ ἀπήγγειλάς μοι σήμερον ἃ ἐποίησάς μοι ἀγαθά ὡς ἀπέκλεισέν με κύριος σήμερον εἰς χεῖράς σου καὶ οὐκ ἀπέκτεινάς με LXE 1 Samuel 24:18 And thou hast told me to-day what good thou hast done me, how the Lord shut me up into thy hands to-day, and thou didst not slay me. KJV 1 Samuel 24:18 And thou hast shewed this day how that thou hast dealt well with me: forasmuch as when the LORD had delivered me into thine hand, thou killedst me not. NET 1 Samuel 24:18 You have explained today how you have treated me well. The LORD delivered me into your hand, but you did not kill me. CSB 1 Samuel 24:18 You yourself have told me today what good you did for me: when the LORD handed me over to you, you didn't kill me. ESV 1 Samuel 24:18 And you have declared this day how you have dealt well with me, in that you did not kill me when the LORD put me into your hands. NIV 1 Samuel 24:18 You have just now told me of the good you did to me; the LORD delivered me into your hands, but you did not kill me. NLT 1 Samuel 24:18 Yes, you have been amazingly kind to me today, for when the LORD put me in a place where you could have killed me, you didn't do it. NRS 1 Samuel 24:18 Today you have explained how you have dealt well with me, in that you did not kill me when the LORD put me into your hands. NJB 1 Samuel 24:19 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) And today you have shown how well you have behaved to me, since Yahweh had put me in your power but you did not kill me. NAB 1 Samuel 24:19 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Great is the generosity you showed me today, when the LORD delivered me into your grasp and you did not kill me. YLT 1 Samuel 24:18 and thou hast declared to-day how that thou hast done good with me, how that Jehovah shut me up into thy hand, and thou didst not slay me, GWN 1 Samuel 24:18 Today you have proved how good you've been to me. When the LORD handed me over to you, you didn't kill me. Lord: 1Sa 24:10 23:7 26:23 delivered: Heb. shut me up, 1Sa 23:12 26:8 *margins Ps 31:8 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries DAVID'S MERCY AND GOODNESS TO KING SAUL You have declared today that you have done good to me, that the LORD delivered me into your hand and yet you did not kill me - How did David do good? By defying the logic of any military analyst which calls for killing the commander of the forces if possible. He seems to grasp that the LORD had delivered him into the hands of David. He acknowledges that David spared his life. Not Seeking Revenge [Saul said], “The Lord delivered me into your hands, but you did not kill me.” 1 Samuel 24:18 Today's Scripture & Insight: 1 Samuel 24:1–4, 14–18 The farmer climbed into his truck and began his morning inspection of the crops. On reaching the farthest edge of the property, his blood began to boil. Someone had used the farm’s seclusion to illegally dump their trash—again. As he filled the truck with the bags of food scraps, the farmer found an envelope. On it was printed the offender’s address. Here was an opportunity too good to ignore. That night he drove to the offender’s house and filled his garden with not just the dumped trash but his own! Revenge is sweet, some say, but is it right? In 1 Samuel 24, David and his men were hiding in a cave to escape a murderous King Saul. When Saul wandered into the same cave to relieve himself, David’s men saw a too-good-to-ignore opportunity for David to get revenge (vv. 3–4). But David went against this desire to get even. “The Lord forbid that I should do such a thing to my master,” he said (v. 6). When Saul discovered that David chose to spare his life, he was incredulous. “You are more righteous than I,” he exclaimed (vv. 17–18). When have you most felt like getting even with someone? How can David’s response guide you as you seek justice for yourself and others? Jesus, lover of our enemies, may I seek justice Your way. 1 Samuel 24:19 "For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go away safely? May the LORD therefore reward you with good in return for what you have done to me this day. BGT 1 Samuel 24:20 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ ὅτι εἰ εὕροιτό τις τὸν ἐχθρὸν αὐτοῦ ἐν θλίψει καὶ ἐκπέμψαι αὐτὸν ἐν ὁδῷ ἀγαθῇ καὶ κύριος ἀνταποτείσει αὐτῷ ἀγαθά καθὼς πεποίηκας σήμερον LXE 1 Samuel 24:19 And if any one should find his enemy in distress, and should send him forth in a good way, then the Lord will reward him good, as thou has done this day. KJV 1 Samuel 24:19 For if a man find his enemy, will he let him go well away? wherefore the LORD reward thee good for that thou hast done unto me this day. NET 1 Samuel 24:19 Now if a man finds his enemy, does he send him on his way in good shape? May the LORD repay you with good this day for what you have done to me. CSB 1 Samuel 24:19 When a man finds his enemy, does he let him go unharmed? May the LORD repay you with good for what you've done for me today. ESV 1 Samuel 24:19 For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go away safe? So may the LORD reward you with good for what you have done to me this day. NIV 1 Samuel 24:19 When a man finds his enemy, does he let him get away unharmed? May the LORD reward you well for the way you treated me today. NLT 1 Samuel 24:19 Who else would let his enemy get away when he had him in his power? May the LORD reward you well for the kindness you have shown me today. NRS 1 Samuel 24:19 For who has ever found an enemy, and sent the enemy safely away? So may the LORD reward you with good for what you have done to me this day. NJB 1 Samuel 24:20 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) When a man comes on his enemy, does he let him go unmolested? May Yahweh reward you for the good you have done me today! NAB 1 Samuel 24:20 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) For if a man meets his enemy, does he send him away unharmed? May the LORD reward you generously for what you have done this day. YLT 1 Samuel 24:19 and that a man doth find his enemy, and hath sent him away in a good manner; and Jehovah doth repay thee good for that which thou didst to me this day. GWN 1 Samuel 24:19 When a person finds an enemy, does he send him away unharmed? The LORD will repay you completely for what you did for me today. the Lord: 1Sa 23:21 26:25 Jdg 17:2 Ps 18:20 Pr 25:21,22 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Psalm 18:20 The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness; According to the cleanness of my hands He has recompensed me. Proverbs 25:21; 22 If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; 22 For you will heap burning coals on his head, And the LORD will reward you. A "BENEDICTION" FROM SAUL For if a man finds his enemy, will he let him go away safely? - This is rhetorical, for no one would let his enemy away safely. Saul saw David as his enemy, but David never referred to Saul as his enemy, showing the dramatic contrast in the hearts of these two men. As a result of this realization, Saul then pronounces a blessing on David! May the LORD therefore reward you with good in return for what you have done to me this day - Saul's benediction or blessing on David is to some degree hypocritical, as his subsequent behavior would clearly demonstrate. Saul will still seek to return David's good with evil. In his heart, Saul wanted to kill David (1Sa 20:1, 22:23, 1Sa 23:15), not bless him. David declares as much in 1Sa 24:11 saying that "you are lying (Lxx has "laying snares [present tense] for my soul to take it") in wait for my life to take it." 1 Samuel 24:20 "Now, behold, I know that you will surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand. BGT 1 Samuel 24:21 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) καὶ νῦν ἰδοὺ ἐγὼ γινώσκω ὅτι βασιλεύων βασιλεύσεις καὶ στήσεται ἐν χερσίν σου βασιλεία Ισραηλ LXE 1 Samuel 24:20 And now, behold, I know that thou shalt surely reign, and the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thy hand. KJV 1 Samuel 24:20 And now, behold, I know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in thine hand. NET 1 Samuel 24:20 Now look, I realize that you will in fact be king and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand. CSB 1 Samuel 24:20 "Now I know for certain you will be king, and the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand. ESV 1 Samuel 24:20 And now, behold, I know that you shall surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand. NIV 1 Samuel 24:20 I know that you will surely be king and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hands. NLT 1 Samuel 24:20 And now I realize that you are surely going to be king, and that the kingdom of Israel will flourish under your rule. NRS 1 Samuel 24:20 Now I know that you shall surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand. NJB 1 Samuel 24:21 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) Now I know that you will indeed reign and that the sovereignty in Israel will pass into your hands. NAB 1 Samuel 24:21 (Numbering in the Hebrew Bible) And now, since I know that you shall surely be king and that sovereignty over Israel shall come into your possession, YLT 1 Samuel 24:20 'And, now, lo, I have known that thou dost certainly reign, and the kingdom of Israel hath stood in thy hand; GWN 1 Samuel 24:20 Now I know that you certainly will rule as king, and under your guidance the kingdom of Israel will prosper. I know well: 1Sa 20:30,31 23:17 2Sa 3:17,18 Job 15:25 Mt 2:3-6,13,16 1 Samuel 24 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: 1 Sa 13:14 “But now your kingdom shall not endure. The LORD has sought out for Himself a man after His own heart, and the LORD has appointed him as ruler over His people, because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you.” 1 Sa 15:28 So Samuel said to him, “The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to your neighbor, who is better than you. SAUL ACKNOWLEDGES DAVID'S ANOINTING AS KING Now, behold, I know that you will surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hand - From the passages above, clearly Saul knew that his days as king were numbered but this is the first time Saul openly confessed that he knew David would be the next king. One wonders if Saul and his son Jonathan had discussed this matter, for earlier we heard Jonathan encourage David with similar words "Do not be afraid, because the hand of Saul my father will not find you, and you will be king over Israel and I will be next to you; and Saul my father knows that also.” (1Sa 23:17+) Notice that while Saul acknowledges David will be king, he does not offer to step down! Note that Saul is saying that "the kingdom of Israel will flourish under your rule." (NLT) Bob