College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
1 Samuel 17 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 17
Goliath's challenge. Once again Israel and Philistia were at war. On this occasion, the battle was pitched farther south; and the battlefield was in the land belonging to the tribe of Judah. The conflict reached a stalemate when a champion, Goliath, came out to challenge the best to be found in the armies of Israel. No champion was found at first in the camp of Saul.
David hears Goliath's challenge. When Saul went to battle, David returned to his father's house in Bethlehem. Since Jesse's three oldest sons were in Saul's army, Jesse sent David to the battle to inquire about his sons-' well-being. It was while David was on this errand for his father that he heard Goliath's challenge. David was not afraid to answer the challenge.
Saul sends David to meet Goliath. David based his judgment on his past experiences with the power of God. By faith in God he had been able to defend his father's sheep when they were attacked by lions and by bears. This courage impressed Saul, and he sent David out to do battle against the Philistine.
David slays Goliath. David did not use Saul's personal armor with which Saul had clothed him. He took only his tried and trusty sling and five smooth stones for it. He had used this kind of weapon, and he felt confident with it. After he had hit the giant with a stone, he beheaded him with the sword which he had taken out of Goliath's sheath.
Saul inquires about David's background. One of the rewards promised to any who would slay Goliath was the hand of the king's daughter in marriage (1 Samuel 17:25). He had also promised that his father's house would be made free in Israel (1 Samuel 17:25 b). Although David had formerly been in Saul's court, the king now made definite inquiry concerning his ancestry and background.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
We should use the equipment we have. David said that he had not proved Saul's armor (1 Samuel 17:39). They were not his own. He did not know how to use them. We likewise should not try to do things in the same way another might have devised. We should be ourselves and use the talents and abilities which God has given to us.
2.
To do battle in the name of the Lord is to be victorious. Ultimate victory is promised to those who do battle for God. The gates of Hell will not prevail against the Lord's church (Matthew 16:18).
CHAPTER 17 IN REVIEW
1.
Where did the Philistines gather for battle?
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2.
To what tribe of Israel did the place belong?
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3.
What was the name of the Philistine champion?
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4.
From what Philistine city did he hail?
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5.
For how many days did Goliath issue his challenge?
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6.
How many of David's brothers were in Saul's army?
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7.
Which of David's brothers rebuked him?
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8.
How many stones did David take from the brook?
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9.
To what Philistine city did Israel pursue the Philistines?
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10.
To what Canaanite city did David carry Goliath's head?
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