Chapter Summary

Wanderings and adventures of David.

Discussion Questions for 1 Samuel, Chapter 23

1. Note that in verse 1, the Philistines have appeared again as a consistent and external enemy plaguing Israel. When have you been discouraged by a recurring problem that occurs in the midst of a larger crisis? How does God use such problems to the benefit of his children (see vs. 29)?
2. How does David show trust in God in vs. 2? What does his decision suggest about how he views the relationship between himself and God as well as himself and his people?
3. What does this chapter reinforce about Saul's agenda? Why would this be problematic for his role as Israel's king? Where have you allowed sin to distract you from your responsibilities and relationships?
4. God reveals that David's actions to save Keilah will not result in the willingness of the city's citizens to stand on his behalf against the wrath of Saul. How does this reinforce David's wholehearted focus on God as his provider?
5. How did God unexpectedly strengthen David's position out of the calamity at Nob? In what ways does this further bolster David's faith in his circumstances following his victory at Keilah?
6. Keilah provides another example of David's willingness to obey God regardless of the cost to himself. Where in your life have you been or seen an unsung or even maligned hero? Why is this sacrificial nature especially important from those in authority?
7. In vs. 15-18, we see Jonathan and David's last recorded meeting. How does Jonathan support David in this difficult time? What could his model of friendship cost him even now? Could your friends count on you in this way? Why/why not?
8. What is ironic about Saul's reply to the Ziphites in vs. 21? What does this reveal about him? How does his evil behaviour encourage similar behaviour from the Ziphites and Doeg the Edomite in Chapter 23?
9. Several times in this chapter we are told that David is in a 'wilderness'. Why does this reveal David's trust in God for both his life and the fulfillment of his promised kingship? What has been a wilderness in your life? Where has God fulfilled his promises to you?
10. God is frequently referred to as a 'Rock' in the Scriptures, so it is no accident that David escapes from Saul in a place named 'Rock of Escape'. In what ways has God been a 'Rock of Escape' in your life?

Key Words/Phrase

Hunted (search him out), vv. 14, 23.

Characters

God, David, Saul, Jonathan, Abiathar.

Strong Verse(s)

14, 16.