1 Samuel - Chapter-3

Chapter Summary

Samuel becomes Jehovah's prophet-priest.

How does it help Israel to know that Samuel is a true prophet? How do we know today if someone speaks truth?
The author says that the 'word of the Lord was rare' in this time and that Samuel did not yet 'know' the Lord (NIV). How do these details shed light on the interactions between Samuel and Eli?
Samuel is actually in the presence of God even when he sleeps at night. How might Samuel's physical location influence his behaviour? How does this contrast with what we know about Eli's sons?
How does God's repeated calls to Samuel reveal his patience and gentleness?
Why is Eli's physical blindness mentioned here? How does it confirm his slow response to God and contrast with Samuel's attentiveness?
Is it right for Eli to hold a curse over Samuel if he does not reveal everything that the Lord said? Why/why not? What does this confirm about Eli?
How does Samuel show obedience to those in authority over him? How can we show obedience to those in authority over us?
Even though Eli hears the truth of his situation (vs. 18), it does not seem to motivate him to change. Why does simply hearing the truth not effect a change of heart or behavior?
Why do you think God gives Samuel such a difficult first message? Why is accuracy so important when conveying God's truth, even if it is hard to hear?
What do you think 'restraining his sons' would have looked like for Eli (NIV)? Why should we lovingly restrain others? What is a situation where we can do this?

Called, v. 4.

God, Samuel, Eli.

10, 18, 19.