Chapter Summary

David in rejection gathers mighty men. His wanderings and dangers.

Discussion Questions for 1 Samuel, Chapter 22

1. What is notable about the type of people drawn to David during his distress? How might those who are "bitter in soul" find camaraderie together in mutually beneficial ways?
2. After his time in Gath, where does David go? What does this place suggest about David's situation? How does God prove himself a "refuge in times of trouble" in a similar manner (Psalm 46:1)?
3. Read Psalm 142, a song written by David while he was "in the cave". What does David reveal about his situation in 1 Samuel 22? What is his solution? How will this encourage others? Where have the hard things in your life been an encouragement to others?
4. What is David's perspective on hope? How does he extend hope to others? What people have modeled hope to you in your life?
5. How does God bless David even in this difficult season? What tangible support does he receive? Where do you see God's blessings to you in and through suffering? By what means have you received support?
6. How does Saul rely on partisanship to motivate an attack on David? Why is such partisanship a violation of the intended role of a godly king? In what ways does Saul's attitude prove Samuel's judgment right (1 Samuel 15:28)?
7. What is Saul holding as he makes his accusations to the priests against David? How does this item reveal his motives? What postures, items, or habits are you holding onto that may tempt you towards ungodly behavior?
8. What does Ahimelech demonstrate about faithfulness in difficult circumstances? Where have you been punished for faithfulness or truthfulness in your dealings with others? What is the righteous response to receiving evil for good?
9. Compare the events in 1 Samuel 22:11-19 with the words of Samuel in 1 Samuel 15: 22-23. How is Saul's command to Doeg a condemnation of his ability to exact righteous justice? In what ways is his war against God and not against David? What does this reveal about Saul's character?
10. How does David take responsibility for the calamity at Nob? Is his reaction appropriate? In what ways does this reflect David's Christlike character?

Key Words/Phrase

Suffering with David, v. 22.

Characters

David, Saul, Gad, Ahimelech, Doeg, Abiathar.

Strong Verse(s)

14, 23.