Samuel was called to be a prophet for Israel at a critical time in their history. The pressure from the surrounding nations was intense, and Israel was struggling to figure out what kind of people they would be and how they would interact with the world around them. Samuel sees them through uncertainty, turmoil, and transition, demonstrating to us three millennia later what happens when God’s servants—you and I—answer God’s call with courage and humility.
From Barenness to Hope
Sunday, January 6, 2019
Audio Video 1 Samuel 1:1-18, 20, 24-28
The story of Samuel begins with Hannah, his mother. Hannah was barren, without hope for the future, and God created new possibility where Hannah could see none at all. In Israel’s barrenness and our own, God is capable of opening up possibilities that we would never imagine.
The Call
Sunday, January 13, 2019
God calls Samuel with an audible voice, much the way we wish God would speak to us today. But there’s more to this story than a booming divine voice—it reminds us that God is still calling to us, still speaking today.
Give Us a King
Sunday, January 20, 2019
Israel tried doing things God’s way, but just didn’t feel like it was working, so they decided they wanted to have a king like the surrounding nations. They felt powerless and decided it was time to embrace worldly power to advance themselves. It is precisely this temptation that still draws the church away from its core purpose and identity.
God’s People
Sunday, January 27, 2019
Israel is preparing to enter uncharted territory as a people, moving away from the old ways and into the new. Samuel warns them of the dangers that lie ahead, but more importantly, he reassures them that no matter where they go, God remains faithful.
