7:2-17

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Samuel’s leadership

(1Sa 7:2-17)

During the years of Philistine oppression, Samuel’s position as chief ruler in Israel became firmly established.

As a religious leader he commanded the people to turn from idols and worship the Lord only, and the people responded (1Sa 7:2-6a).

As a civil leader he settled disputes among them (1Sa 7:6b). In response to the people’s repentance and Samuel’s prayers for them, God gave Israel a great victory over the Philistines (1Sa 7:7-11).

The Israelites continued to fight against the Philistines till they had driven them from Israel’s territory completely.

From this time on, as long as Samuel remained in control of Israel, the Philistines were of no great trouble to Israel (1Sa 7:12-14).

With the destruction of Israel’s tabernacle at Shiloh, the nation’s religious life centred on Samuel, who set up an altar for sacrifice in his home town of Ramah.

The civil administration also centred on Samuel, as he moved in an annual circuit around four major towns where he held district courts to settle disputes (1Sa 7:15-17).