1 Samuel 24 Summary - 5 Minute Bible Study

1 Samuel 24 Summary - A Quick Overview

WHEN:

• Israel’s first king, Saul, was appointed in approximately 1050 B.C.

• The events documented in 1 Samuel 24 took place between approximately 1015-1010 B.C.

CHARACTERS:

• David – He was selected by God to eventually become the second king of Israel.

• Saul – The first king of Israel. He hated David and was always trying to kill him.

WHERE:

• David and his men hid from Saul in Engedi, which was near the western coast of the Dead Sea.  

OUTLINE:

• DAVID SPARES SAUL IN THE ENGEDI CAVE (24:1-22):

  • Saul received news that David was hiding in the wilderness of Engedi.

  • He took 3,000 men and went to look for David near the Wildgoats’ Rocks.

  • While searching, Saul went into a cave to “relieve himself” (either to rest or to use the toilet), but he wasn’t aware David and his men were hiding in the back of the cave.

  • David’s men wanted him to sneak up on Saul and kill him, but David didn’t want to harm “the Lord’s anointed.”

  • Instead, he snuck up on Saul and cut off a corner of his robe.

  • Saul, who was completely unaware of his surroundings, finished relieving himself and exited the cave.

  • David followed the king out, called to him, then bowed to him in respect.

  • He showed Saul the corner of his robe and presented it as evidence that he had no ill will against the king, as some accused him.

  • David could have easily killed Saul, but he turned down the opportunity.

  • David appealed to God to judge between him and Saul and to see that justice was done.

  • As soon as David finished speaking, Saul’s hard heart was softened.

  • He admitted that David was more righteous than him and had repaid his evil with good.

  • Saul confessed that David would one day be king in Israel, and he asked David not to kill his descendants when he ascended to the throne.

  • David swore he would not harm the house of Saul.

  • After their conversation, David returned to his stronghold and Saul took his 3,000 men home.

APPLICATION:

• Even though Saul was dishonorable in character, David still showed him respect because of the position God gave him.

• Several verses in the New Testament instruct Christians to honor leaders, both national leaders and spiritual leaders.

• It is possible to respect the office a person holds, even when the person in office is dishonorable in character.