The Father’s Testimony – Preaching
Preaching Outline on I Samuel 16:1 – “Then the Lord said to Samuel, ‘How long will you pity Saul, when I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill a horn with oil, and come; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite; for I have provided me a king from among his sons.”
Introduction to I Samuel 16:1
The passage in which God sends Samuel to the house of Jesse to anoint the next king of Israel is rich in symbolism and applications for our spiritual lives. The choice of the Lord’s anointed brings lessons that we can translate into various metaphors: the table as a place of communion, the shepherd who looks after the sheep, and the least who becomes the greatest in humility and service. Each element of this story points to Jesus and his role in our lives. Let’s explore these truths in more depth.
Development
The smallest…
When Samuel arrives at Jesse’s house, all his father’s sons are introduced, except for the youngest, David, who was in the field tending the sheep. The expression “the least of these is missing” is not only a reference to David’s position in the family, but also a figure of Jesus, who, as a man, took on the humble form of a servant.
If Jesus isn’t present, there’s no reason to sit at the table. He is the center of communion. The real table was prepared by him, who, on the cross, made everything ready so that we could come to God. Jesus, the least in human eyes, became the greatest in eternity, offering himself as a sacrifice and preparing a place of communion for all who believe.
Busy with a task
David, the missing son, was busy feeding his father’s sheep. This scene points directly to the Father’s testimony about the Son. Jesus came as the good shepherd, the one who gives his life for the sheep. He is our shepherd and therefore we will not lack anything. The gospels and apostolic letters reaffirm Jesus’ status as the supreme shepherd of souls.
Not only did Jesus fulfill his mission faithfully, but he also taught us the value of service. While the world seeks greatness, he showed that the true calling lies in caring for, protecting and leading the Father’s sheep. Just as David was found faithful in his task, we are also called to be faithful in what God has entrusted to us.
The table is ready
The table is a powerful symbol of communion and provision. It can only be enjoyed when Jesus is present, because he is the food at the table – the bread of life. When Jesus came, he brought with him reconciliation between God and man, allowing all believers to have access to the Lord’s table.
Jesus’ presence at the table also reminds us of the Holy Supper, instituted so that we never forget his sacrifice. As we celebrate the table, we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes. This table points to both the present and the future – one day we will sit at the table with him at the great heavenly banquet.
Preparation and hope
Just as Samuel waited until David was called, we are also called to wait for the presence of Jesus. When he arrives, everything changes: the table is set, communion is restored, and food is served. Our hope is based on the promise that he will come again to take us to a place of full communion with the Father.
Recognize Jesus’ presence: Just as David was essential for the table to be prepared, Jesus is indispensable for our communion with God. Seek his presence daily.
Be faithful in your task: David was busy looking after the sheep when he was called. Like him, we need to be found faithful in what God has entrusted to us.
Partake of the table with gratitude: The table is a place of communion and provision. As you partake of the Lord’s Supper, remember Jesus’ sacrifice and the hope we have in him.
Wait in hope: Jesus’ promise is certain. He will return, and when he does, we will sit at the table with him at the eternal banquet.
Conclusion of I Samuel 16:1
The Father’s testimony about the Son is a powerful reminder that everything points to Jesus. He is the good shepherd who gave his life for the sheep, the bread of life that nourishes our souls, and the one who prepares the communion table. If Jesus is present, the table is ready. We not only have access to that table today, but we look forward to the day when we will sit with him in the eternal kingdom. May we live in faithfulness, service and hope, always proclaiming: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
Preaching Outline on I Samuel 16:1 – “Then the Lord said to Samuel, ‘How long will you pity Saul, when I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill a horn with oil, and come; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite; for I have provided me a king from among his sons.”
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