College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
1 Samuel 23 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 23
Abiathar, the priest, with David, Escaping from the slaughter at Nob, Abiathar joined David in his hideout in Keilah. Abiathar had a linen ephod, a distinctive garment of the priests and evidently served as the priest for David and his men while they fled from Saul.
David's and Jonathan's meeting. Saul learned that David was hiding in Keilah and went out to get him. Jonathan, Saul's son arose and went to David into the forest around Keilah. The two met again and confirmed a covenant which they had made earlier. Jonathan returned to his home but David remained in hiding in Keilah.
Saul's pursuit of David. The Ziphites came to Saul in Gibeah and told him where David was hiding. With this information Saul made a bold attempt to capture David. He very nearly accomplished this. On one occasion Saul went on one side of the mountain and David and his men were on the other side. David got away and continued his flight out of Saul's presence. He then moved his hiding place to the caves on the west shore of the Dead Sea near En-gedi.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
God's abundant provision for our needs. God not only sent a prophet to be with David but he also made it possible for a priest to join David's company. God always does more than we would expect.
2.
The blessing of steadfast friends. David must have longed to see Jonathan. Jonathan must have known this. He came to David and the two were able to
renew their covenant and David received strength to go on in his life as a fugitive.
3.
God's good providences. Things happen in life that cannot be explained except that they are directed by the hand of almighty God. When Saul went around one side of the mountain David was on the other. God must have been with David.
CHAPTER 23 IN REVIEW
1.
What city did David protect from the Philistines?
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2.
What did Abiathar have when he fled to David?
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3.
How many men were with David?
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4.
In what wilderness did David hide?
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5.
Who came down to see David in the wilderness?
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6.
In what hill did the Ziphites tell Saul that David was hiding?
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7.
Where was Saul when the Ziphites went to him?
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8.
In what wilderness was David hiding when the Ziphites returned?
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9.
What name was given to the place where David escaped?
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10.
To what place did David finally flee?
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