Samuel's Life and Prophetic Call

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Questions and Answers

What was Samuel doing when he first heard the call from the LORD?

He was ministering under Eli. (correct)

He was sleeping outside.

He was in the fields.

He was praying in solitude.

What did Eli initially tell Samuel when he came to him after hearing the call?

To go back to bed. (correct)

To report the vision immediately.

To get dressed and leave.

To rise and follow the voice.

How many times did the LORD call Samuel before Eli understood what was happening?

Three times. (correct)

Four times.

One time.

Two times.

What instruction did Eli give to Samuel regarding how to respond to the LORD?

Say, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.’ Signup and view all the answers

What did the LORD announce to Samuel that would cause people to tingle?

Punishment for Eli's house. Signup and view all the answers

Why was Eli's house doomed according to the LORD's message?

Eli's sons were blaspheming God. Signup and view all the answers

What was Samuel's emotional state after receiving the vision?

Uneasy and afraid to tell Eli. Signup and view all the answers

What was significant about the state of the word of the LORD during Samuel's time?

It was rare and visions were not widespread. Signup and view all the answers

Who was the first to call Samuel in the story?

Eli Signup and view all the answers

What did God convey to Samuel during the nighttime calling?

A message of judgment Signup and view all the answers

What was Samuel's initial misunderstanding during God's call?

He thought it was Eli's voice. Signup and view all the answers

What does the story demonstrate about the relationship between God and families?

God is active and central in the lives of families. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the state of Israel during Samuel's time?

In dire moral decay Signup and view all the answers

What role did Eli have in relation to Samuel?

Samuel's spiritual mentor Signup and view all the answers

What does God expect from parents according to the story?

To be the primary spiritual educators of their children Signup and view all the answers

What did Hannah do with Samuel each year during their pilgrimage?

Made him a new robe Signup and view all the answers

What was the nature of the message God sent to Eli through Samuel?

A warning of impending disaster Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes Samuel's initial relationship with God?

He did not yet know the LORD. Signup and view all the answers

What critical lesson is emphasized regarding God’s calling of Samuel?

God calls individuals of any age. Signup and view all the answers

What significant aspect of Hannah's life is highlighted in the narrative?

Her infertility and subsequent dedication of Samuel Signup and view all the answers

Which biblical book recounts Samuel's story and its events?

1 Samuel Signup and view all the answers

What does the narrative reveal about the spiritual condition of Eli's sons?

They engaged in corruption and wickedness. Signup and view all the answers

What significant action did Hannah take that influenced Samuel's early life?

She brought him to live with Eli in the tabernacle. Signup and view all the answers

How are Eli's sons described in relation to their spiritual duties?

They had no regard for the LORD and abused their roles. Signup and view all the answers

What was Eli's response upon receiving the bad news about God's judgment on his family?

He expressed acceptance and submission to the LORD's will. Signup and view all the answers

What was the key instruction Eli gave Samuel regarding God's call?

To say 'Speak, for your servant is listening'. Signup and view all the answers

What important theme does the relationship between witness and vocation illustrate?

Witness and vocation replicate and influence each other. Signup and view all the answers

What role did Samuel play in relation to God's narrative?

He actively contributed to God's purpose as a prophet. Signup and view all the answers

What did Eli fail to do regarding his sons despite warning them?

He failed to remove them from their priestly roles. Signup and view all the answers

In what way was Samuel's function as a prophet pivotal for Israel's future?

He was essential for delivering God's words to leaders. Signup and view all the answers

How did God's actions shape Samuel's vocation as a prophet?

Samuel's vocation followed God's own teachings and actions. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of Eli's major failures as a father?

He failed to address his sons' sinful actions. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Background of Samuel

Samuel served under Eli at a time when prophetic voices were scarce in Israel.
His parents, Elkanah and Hannah, were devout and committed to worship and sacrifices at Shiloh.
Hannah’s long-standing prayer for a child culminated in Samuel’s birth, marking a significant divine intervention.

God Calls Samuel

Samuel initially did not recognize God’s voice, mistaking it for Eli's.
Eli, at first unaware of God calling Samuel, eventually instructs him to respond, "Speak, for your servant is listening."
God’s call to Samuel marks the beginning of his prophetic journey, establishing his role in Israel.

God’s Message

The Lord reveals to Samuel a judgment against Eli’s household due to the corruption and sins of his sons.
God’s pronouncement includes a severe consequence: Eli’s family's iniquity cannot be atoned for by sacrifice or offering.

Samuel's Growth as a Prophet

As Samuel matures, he gains credibility as a prophet, with all Israel recognizing him as a trustworthy leader.
God continues to reveal himself to Samuel, emphasizing the prophetic model of receiving and communicating God's messages.

Role of Parents and Spiritual Guidance

Ancient Judaism emphasized parental responsibility in religious education, with commands in Deuteronomy highlighting the importance of teaching children about God.
Hannah's dedication of Samuel to God's service symbolizes her faith and commitment.

Eli’s Flaws and Contributions

Eli, a flawed father, allowed his sons to misuse their priestly roles, reflecting a breakdown of parental authority.
Despite failing his biological sons, Eli effectively guided Samuel in recognizing and responding to God.

Witness and Vocation Dynamics

The relationship between the witnesses (Hannah, Elkanah, Eli) and Samuel’s eventual vocation showcases a replicating cycle of mentorship and spiritual legacy.
Samuel’s vocation as a prophet intersects with the broader narrative of God’s redemptive work in Israel's history.

Significance of Samuel’s Conversion

Samuel’s experience illustrates that individuals can be involved in religious practices yet still lack genuine knowledge of God.
The narrative serves as a reminder of God’s willingness to actively engage with people, regardless of their age or previous understanding.

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Description

Explore the significant moments in the life of Samuel, including his devout beginnings, God's call, and his growth as a prophet. This quiz delves into the divine intervention surrounding Samuel's birth and the judgments pronounced by God regarding Eli's household. Test your knowledge on these pivotal events in Israel's history.