You Can Read the Bible

Today, the camera shifts to David in exile, and two episodes highlight the irony of his position.  In chapter 29, the other Philistine lords challenge Achish’s faith in David, disbelieving that he will stand with them against Saul.  By the end of chapter 30, the author will have masterfully positioned all the principle characters on the eve of the climactic battle, between Israel and the Philistines. 

There are a few details to take note of.  When the Philistine commanders refer to David’s band as “these Hebrews,” you can pick up on two things.  First, you’ve already noticed that there’s a derogatory slant, like calling them “these rebel scum.”  Second, it’s a term typically used by foreigners to refer toward Israelites, rather than Israelites using it themselves.  It’s unclear where this term came from or exactly what it means, but it carries the sense of being a “foreigner,” which may be what the New Testament author of Hebrews is picking up on.

It’s a bit jolting when Achish, the Philistine king, swears by the LORD God of Israel, that he’s sure David has been honest with him.  It’s also disconcerting when the Philistine lords bring out the popular refrain: “Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands.”  It’s designed to make us fear for David, both for his life and for his integrity.  David makes a sincere show of wanting to fight against Saul, asking Achish, “What have I done?” and divine intervention might be required to keep him from harm.  

That intervention comes in chapter 30.  While David is pleading his case, the Amalekites raid his stronghold of Ziklag and exact revenge for David’s recent raids.   Tension abounds as now the locals speak of stoning him, for bringing disaster upon them.   But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God, and takes off in rescue, across the Negev, and away from the gathering armies at Mount Gilboa. 

Our verse for this week is Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1 Samuel 29 and 30.  Now let’s read it!

1 Samuel 29 - 30

You Can Read the Bible is supported by Bellefield Presbyterian Church and blessed with its wonderful volunteers, including: Dave Moore, Jose David Aguilar Posada, Meagan Carter, Fiona Carter, Tanya Carter, Greg Burdette, Madeline Kulp, Andie Young, Justin Ray, Gary Liberati, Maureen Hinchman, Ken MacLeod, John Dolan, Roberto Cantillo, Charlei George, Josh Brown, Jeanne Griffith, Zachary Fritts, Dan Hinchman, Sophia Young, Lynette MacLeod, Gladys Cantillo, Grace Watson, Marianne Seah, Ian MacLeod, Liz Zimmerman, August Hall, Paza Boyd, Kristin Horner, Daniel Young, Paul Griffoen, Ben Moore, Meredith Carter, Bob Willson, Rosie Wagoner, Nick Bersin, Rhonda Hall, Helen Dolby, Emily Moore, Rick Zimmerman, Matt Jones, Kiana Jones, Jane Carter, Marilyn Long, Renee Hairston, Heather Weaver, Carol Williams, Anita Woolley, Andrew Thorpe, Emily Wenz, Matt Carter, and many others.

A special note of thanks to Dave Moore, the Moore family, Maureen Hinchman, the Hinchman family, Jose Posada, the Posada family, and to the Carter family. This would not have happened without your unwavering efforts, sacrifice, and support! Thank you!

We provide You Can Read the Bible in all of its many forms and formats as a ministry service to grow disciples within the church universal. This is not a substitute for your local church community, but it could be a resource to use within your local church and for you personally.