1 Samuel 16:8: “Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, ‘The Lord has not chosen this one either.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesse presents his second son, Abinadab, before Samuel after Eliab was rejected as the future king of Israel. Samuel, following God’s direction, declares that Abinadab is also not the one chosen by God. The verse highlights the process by which God rejects each of Jesse’s sons based on His criteria, rather than human expectations. Samuel, acting in obedience to God, does not rely on his own judgment but waits for God’s clear direction. This ongoing rejection of the older sons underscores the theme that God’s choice often defies human standards and expectations.
Historical Context
At this point in the narrative, Israel is in need of a new king because Saul has been rejected by God due to his disobedience. Samuel, God’s prophet, is sent to anoint one of Jesse’s sons in Bethlehem. In ancient Israel, the firstborn son often held the position of prominence and responsibility, and it would have been expected that one of Jesse’s older sons would be chosen. However, God is looking beyond birth order and outward appearance, and His choice will ultimately fall on David, the youngest son, who is not even present at this stage in the story. This situation emphasizes the way God operates differently from cultural norms.
Theological Implications
This verse points to the sovereignty of God in His choices. While humans might focus on outward traits, such as age or physical appearance, God’s selection is based on the heart. Theologically, this shows that God’s ways are higher than human ways, and His wisdom surpasses our understanding (Isaiah 55:8-9). It also emphasizes that God’s decisions are not based on societal expectations but on His purpose and plans for His people. Abinadab, though not chosen, was still part of God’s unfolding story, illustrating that God works through all people, but His specific callings are intentional and purposeful.
Literary Analysis
The narrative continues with a sense of suspense, as each of Jesse’s sons is presented to Samuel, only to be rejected by God. The repetition of the process, where each son passes before Samuel and is not chosen, builds anticipation for the eventual selection of David. The phrase “The Lord has not chosen this one either” is important because it reinforces the idea that Samuel is relying on God’s decision rather than his own judgment. The literary structure creates a rhythm of expectation, highlighting the surprising nature of God’s final choice.
Biblical Cross-References
A relevant cross-reference is 1 Corinthians 1:27, where Paul writes, “God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” This aligns with the idea that God’s choice of David, the youngest and least likely candidate, follows a pattern of God using those who seem unlikely by human standards. Another cross-reference is Deuteronomy 7:7, where God reminds Israel that He chose them not because they were numerous or powerful, but because of His love and promise. This shows that God’s choices are driven by His own purposes rather than external factors.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s plans often challenge our expectations. It teaches us to trust in God’s wisdom, even when we don’t understand His choices. Whether in our personal lives or in the church, it is important to remember that God looks at the heart and knows the best path forward, even when it differs from human logic. This verse encourages believers to remain humble, recognizing that God’s calling is not based on worldly qualifications but on His sovereign will.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He carefully chooses those who will carry out His plans according to His wisdom and understanding, not based on outward appearances or societal norms. God’s rejection of Abinadab is not a rejection of worth or value, but rather a reflection of His unique plan. It shows that God loves His people enough to make decisions based on what is truly best, even when those decisions defy human expectations. God’s love is demonstrated in His intimate involvement in the lives of His people, guiding and shaping them for His purposes.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ in that it echoes the pattern of God choosing what is humble and unexpected to accomplish His greatest works. Jesus, like David, was not what people expected in a king. He was born in a humble setting, lived a life of service, and did not fit the image of a political or military leader. Yet, Jesus was God’s chosen one, sent to save the world. In Philippians 2:7-8, Paul writes that Jesus “made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant,” which mirrors the theme of God choosing those who are humble and overlooked by the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you respond when God’s choices or plans don’t align with your own expectations? What can you learn from Samuel’s obedience in this passage?
- In what areas of your life do you tend to judge based on outward appearances or worldly standards? How can you shift your focus to see people and situations as God does?
- How does the pattern of God choosing the humble and unexpected in this verse encourage you to trust in His wisdom for your own life?