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Commentary on 1 Samuel 17 verses 12–30
Forty days the two armies lay encamped facing one another, each advantageously posted, but neither forward to engage. Either they were parleying and treating of an accommodation or they were waiting for recruits; and perhaps there were frequent skirmishes between small detached parties. All this while, twice a day, morning and evening, did the insulting champion appear in the field and repeat his challenge, his own heart growing more and more proud for his not being answered and the people of Israel more and more timorous, while God designed hereby to ripen him for destruction and to make Israel's deliverance the more illustrious. All this while David is keeping his father's sheep, but at the end of forty days Providence brings him to the field to win and wear the laurel which no other Israelite dares venture for. We have in these verses,
I. The present state of his family. His father was old (Sa1 17:12): He went among men for an old man, was taken notice of for his great age, above what was usual at that time, and therefore was excused from pubic services, and went not in person to the wars, but sent his sons; he had the honours paid him that were due his age, his hoary head was a crown of glory to him. David's three elder brethren, who perhaps envied his place at the court, got their father to send for him home, and let them go to the camp, where they hoped to signalize themselves and eclipse him (Sa1 17:13, Sa1 17:14), while David himself was so far from being proud of the services he had done his prince, or ambitious of further preferment, that he not only returned from court to the obscurity of his father's house, but to care, and toil, and (as it proved, Sa1 17:34) the peril, of keeping his father's sheep. It was the praise of this humility that it came after he had the honour of a courtier, and the reward of it that it came before the honour of a conqueror. Before honour is humility. Now he had that opportunity of mediation and prayer, and other acts of devotion, which fitted him for what he was destined to more than all the military exercises of that inglorious camp could do.
II. The orders his father gave him to go and visit his brethren in the camp. He did not himself ask leave to go, to satisfy his curiosity, or to gain experience and make observations; but his father sent him on a mean and homely errand, on which any of his servants might have gone. He must carry some bread and cheese to his brethren, ten loaves with some parched corn for themselves (Sa1 17:17) and ten cheeses (which, it seems, he thought too good for them) for a present to their colonel, Sa1 17:18. David must still be the drudge of the family, though he was to be the greatest ornament of it. He had not so much as an ass at command to carry his load, but must take it on his back, and yet run to the camp. Jesse, we thought, was privy to his being anointed, and yet industriously kept him thus mean and obscure, probably to hide him from the eye of suspicion and envy, knowing that he was anointed to a crown in reversion. He must observe how his brethren fared, whether they were not reduced to short allowance, now that the encampment continued so long, that, if need were, he might send them more provisions. And he must take their pledge, that is, if they had pawned any thing, he must redeem it; take notice of their company, so some observe, whom they associate with, and what sort of life they lead. Perhaps David, like Joseph, had formerly brought to his father their evil report, and now he sends him to enquire concerning their manners. See the care the pious parents about their children when they are abroad from them, especially in places of temptation; they are solicitous how they conduct themselves, and particularly what company they keep. Let children think of this, and conduct themselves accordingly, remembering that, when they are from under their parents' eye, they are still under God's eye.
III. David's dutiful obedience to his father's command. His prudence and care made him be up early (Sa1 17:20), and yet not to leave his sheep without a keeper, so faithful was he in a few things and therefore the fitter to be made ruler over many things, and so well had he learnt to obey before he pretended to command. God's providence brought him to the camp very seasonably, when both sides had set the battle in array, and, as it should seem, were more likely to come to an engagement than they had yet been during all the forty days, Sa1 17:21. Both sides were now preparing to fight. Jesse little thought of sending his son to the army just at that critical juncture, but the wise God orders the time and all the circumstances of actions and affairs so as to serve his designs of securing the interests of Israel and advancing the men after his own heart. Now observe here,
1.How brisk and lively David was, Sa1 17:22. What articles he brought he honestly took care of, and left them with those that had the charge of the bag and baggage; but, though he had come a long journey with a great load, he ran into the army, to see what was doing there, and to pay his respects to his brethren. Seest thou a man thus diligent in his business, he is in the way of preferment, he shall stand before kings.
2.How bold and daring the Philistine was, Sa1 17:23. Now that the armies were drawn out into a line of battle he appeared first to renew his challenge, vainly imagining that he was in the eager chase of his own glory and triumph, whereas really he was but courting his own destruction.
3.How timorous and faint-hearted the men of Israel were. Though they had, for forty days together, been used to his haughty looks and threatening language, and, having seen no execution done by either, might have learned to despise both, yet, upon his approach, they fled from him and were greatly afraid, Sa1 17:24. One Philistine could never thus have chased 1000 Israelites, and put 10,000 to flight, unless their Rock, being treacherously forsaken by them, had justly sold them, and shut them up, Deu 32:30.
4.How high Saul bid for a champion. Though he was the tallest of all the men of Israel, and, if he had not been so, while he kept close to God might himself have safely taken up the gauntlet which this insolent Philistine threw down, yet, the Spirit of the Lord having departed from him, he durst not do it, nor press Jonathan to do it; but whoever will do it shall have as good preferment as he can give him, Sa1 17:25. If the hope of wealth and honour will prevail with any man to expose himself so far, it is proclaimed that the bold adventurer, if he come off, shall marry the king's daughter and have a good portion with her; but, as it should seem, whether he come off or no, his father's house shall be free in Israel, from all toll, tribute, custom, and services to the crown, or shall be ennobled and advanced to the peerage.
5.How much concerned David was to assert the honour of God and Israel against the impudent challenges of this champion. He asked what reward was promised to him that should slay this Philistine (Sa1 17:26), though he knew already, not because he was ambitious of the honour, but because he would have it taken notice of, and reported to Saul, how much he resented the indignity hereby done to Israel and Israel's God. He might have presumed so far upon his acquaintance and interest at court as to go himself to Saul to offer his service; but his modesty would not let him do this. It was one of his own rules, before it was one of his son's proverbs, Put not forth thyself in the presence of the king, and stand not in the place of great men (Pro 25:6); yet his zeal put him upon that method which he hoped would bring him into this great engagement. Two considerations, it seems, fired David with a holy indignation: - (1.) That the challenger was one that was uncircumcised, a stranger to God and out of covenant with him. (2.) That the challenged were the armies of the living God, devoted to him, employed by him and for him, so that the affronts offered to them reflected upon the living God himself, and that he could not bear. When therefore some had told him what was the reward proposed for killing the Philistine (Sa1 17:27) he asked others (Sa1 17:30), with the same resentment, which he expected would at length come to Saul's ear.
6.How he was brow-beaten and discouraged by his eldest brother Eliab, who, taking notice of his forwardness, fell into a passion upon it, and gave David very abusive language, Sa1 17:28. Consider this, (1.) As the fruit of Eliab's jealousy. He was the eldest brother, and David the youngest, and perhaps it had been customary with him (as it is with too many elder brothers) to trample upon him and take every occasion to chide him. But those who thus exalt themselves over their juniors may perhaps live to see themselves, by a righteous providence, abased, and those to whom they are abusive exalted. Time may come when the elder may serve the younger. But Eliab was now vexed that his younger brother should speak those bold words against the Philistine which he himself durst not say. He knew what honour David had already had in the court, and, if he should now get honour in the camp (from which he thought he had found means effectually to seclude him, Sa1 17:15), the glory of his elder brethren would be eclipsed and stained; and therefore (such is the nature of jealousy) he would rather that Goliath should triumph over Israel than that David should be the man that should triumph over him. Wrath is cruel and anger is outrageous, but who can stand before envy, especially the envy of a brother, the keenness of which Jacob, and Joseph, and David experienced? See Pro 18:19. It is very ill-favoured language that Eliab here gives him; not only unjust and unkind, but, at this time, basely ungrateful; for David was now sent by his father, as Joseph by his, on a kind of visit to his brethren. Eliab intended, in what he said, not only to grieve and discourage David himself, and quench that noble fire which he perceived glowing in his breast, but to represent him to those about him as an idle proud lad, not fit to be taken notice of. He gives them to understand that his business was only to keep sheep, and falsely insinuates that he was a careless unfaithful shepherd; though he had left his charge in good hands (Sa1 17:20), yet he must tauntingly be asked, With whom hast thou left those few sheep? Though he came down now to the camp in disobedience to his father and kindness to his brethren, and Eliab knew this, yet his coming is turned to his reproach: "Thou hast come down, not to do any service, but to gratify thy own curiosity, and only to look about thee;" and thence he will infer the pride and naughtiness of his heart, and pretends to know it as certainly as if he were in his bosom. David could appeal to God concerning his humility and sincerity (Psa 17:3; Psa 131:1) and at this time gave proofs of both, and yet could not escape this hard character from his own brother. See the folly, absurdity, and wickedness, of a proud and envious passion; how groundless its jealousies are, how unjust its censures, how unfair its representations, how bitter its invectives, and how indecent its language. God, by his grace, keep us from such a spirit! (2.) As a trial of David's meekness, patience and constancy. A short trial it was, and he approved himself well in it; for, [1.] He bore the provocation with admirable temper (Sa1 17:29): "What have I now done? What fault have I committed, for which I should thus be chidden? Is there not a cause for my coming to the camp, when my father sent me? Is there not a cause for my resenting the injury done to Israel's honour by Goliath's challenges?" He had right and reason on his side, and knew it, and therefore did not render railing for railing, but with a soft answer turned away his brother's wrath. This conquest of his own passion was in some respects more honourable than his conquest of Goliath. He that hath rule over his own spirit is better than the mighty. It was no time for David to quarrel with his brother when the Philistines were upon them. The more threatening the church's enemies are the more forbearing her friends should be with one another. [2.] He broke through the discouragement with admirable resolution. He would not be driven off from his thoughts of engaging the Philistine by the ill-will of his brother. Those that undertake great and public services must not think it strange if they be discountenanced and opposed by those from whom they had reason to expect support and assistance; but must humbly go on with their work, in the face not only of their enemies' threats, but of their friends' slights and suspicions.
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SUMMARY
1 Samuel 17:21 powerfully encapsulates the tense military standoff in the Valley of Elah, where the Israelite and Philistine armies meticulously positioned themselves for a decisive confrontation. This verse sets a crucial stage for the epic narrative of David and Goliath, portraying a moment of strategic readiness and profound stalemate that underscores the human impossibility of the situation, highlighting the dire need for divine intervention in a conflict that would determine the fate of two nations.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is strategically positioned within the broader narrative of 1 Samuel 17, which details the formidable challenge posed by Goliath and David's subsequent miraculous victory. Preceding this verse, the chapter introduces Goliath's daily taunts and the paralyzing fear he instilled in the Israelite army, including King Saul himself, as described in 1 Samuel 17:1-11. The verse immediately follows David's arrival at the battlefield, sent by his father Jesse to deliver provisions to his brothers and gather news. Thus, 1 Samuel 17:21 vividly portrays the exact scene David encounters: two massive armies locked in a tense, static confrontation, underscoring the formidable and seemingly insurmountable challenge that a humble shepherd boy is about to confront. It serves as a narrative pause, emphasizing the immense stakes and the desperate situation before the action shifts dramatically to David's courageous and faith-filled response.
Historical & Cultural Context: The conflict between Israel and the Philistines was a defining feature of this period in Israelite history, particularly during the early monarchy under King Saul, as seen in passages like 1 Samuel 13. The Philistines, a powerful maritime people who had settled on the coastal plain of Canaan, possessed superior iron technology and military organization, consistently posing a significant threat to the nascent Israelite kingdom. The "Valley of Elah," a strategic geographical corridor, was a common battleground due to its accessibility and importance for controlling the Judean hill country. The practice of "putting the battle in array" (lining up armies) was a standard military procedure in ancient warfare, involving careful positioning of infantry, chariots, and archers to maximize tactical advantage and minimize vulnerability. The prolonged stalemate described in the verse, lasting for forty days, highlights the psychological warfare at play, with Goliath's challenge serving as a form of ancient "champion warfare" intended to demoralize the enemy and avoid a full-scale, costly engagement, a common tactic in the ancient Near East.
Key Themes: 1 Samuel 17:21 powerfully contributes to several key themes within the book of 1 Samuel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it emphasizes the theme of Imminent Conflict and High Stakes, portraying a moment of extreme tension where the fate of nations hangs in the balance. The meticulous arrangement of forces highlights the seriousness and professionalism of the impending clash. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Human Inadequacy and Divine Sovereignty. The prolonged stalemate, with neither army daring to advance, showcases the limits of human strength, strategy, and courage in the face of overwhelming fear and a seemingly unbeatable foe like Goliath. This sets the stage for God to demonstrate His power through an unexpected, humble instrument (David), illustrating that true victory does not depend on military might or human prowess, but on God's intervention and the faith of His chosen one (compare Psalm 20:7 and Zechariah 4:6). Finally, the verse subtly introduces the theme of Spiritual Warfare, as the physical array of armies mirrors the spiritual battle between God's people and the forces that oppose His kingdom and His purposes.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices to convey its profound meaning. Conciseness is paramount, as the verse uses minimal words to convey a maximum sense of tension, strategic readiness, and imminent conflict. The use of Parallelism in the phrase "army against army" creates a vivid and immediate image of direct and unyielding opposition, emphasizing the symmetrical and equally poised nature of the opposing forces. This repetition also functions as a powerful form of Emphasis, drawing the reader's attention to the direct confrontation and the complete readiness of both sides. Furthermore, the verse acts as a crucial piece of Foreshadowing, building suspense and setting the stage for the dramatic intervention of David, highlighting the magnitude of the challenge he is about to face. The static description of the armies also creates a palpable sense of Stasis or Stalemate, which is then dramatically broken by David's arrival and bold, faith-filled action.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Samuel 17:21 serves as a powerful theological statement about the nature of conflict and the inherent limits of human strength and strategy. It illustrates that even when human forces are perfectly matched and strategically arrayed, a profound stalemate can ensue, revealing the desperate need for a divine solution. The inability of either Israel or the Philistines to break the deadlock underscores the pervasive biblical theme that true victory and deliverance do not ultimately come from superior human organization, military might, or numerical advantage, but from God's sovereign power and His willingness to act on behalf of His people. This sets the stage for God to demonstrate His sovereignty through an unexpected and seemingly insignificant champion, transforming a seemingly insurmountable human problem into a glorious opportunity for divine intervention and the display of His unmatched power.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Samuel 17:21, though brief, offers profound insights for contemporary believers navigating the complexities of life. It reminds us that we often encounter "army against army" scenarios—situations where challenges, obstacles, or adversaries seem perfectly arrayed against us, creating a sense of stalemate, fear, and paralysis. These might manifest as personal struggles, professional setbacks, relational conflicts, or even spiritual battles where the forces of darkness appear overwhelming and insurmountable. In such moments, like the Israelites, we might feel inadequate, waiting for a champion, or simply frozen by fear. This verse calls us to recognize that while human preparation, diligence, and strategic thinking are important ("put the battle in array"), ultimate victory and deliverance do not depend on our strength, our resources, or the apparent might of our adversaries. Instead, it powerfully points us to the God who delights in demonstrating His power precisely when human efforts reach their limit. It encourages us to look beyond the visible array of forces and to place our trust in the unseen, sovereign hand of God, who can use the most unexpected means to bring about His purposes and secure triumph, often in ways that defy human logic and expectation.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "put the battle in array" mean in ancient warfare?
Answer: In ancient warfare, "putting the battle in array" (Hebrew: ʻarakh milchamah) refers to the meticulous and strategic organization of an army before combat. This involved arranging troops into specific formations (e.g., phalanxes, lines, columns), positioning different units (infantry, archers, chariots) to maximize their effectiveness, and ensuring all equipment and personnel were ready for immediate engagement. It was a highly disciplined and technical process, reflecting the careful planning and professionalism of ancient armies preparing for a decisive confrontation. This phrase in 1 Samuel 17:21 emphasizes that both Israel and the Philistines were fully prepared and strategically positioned, not merely gathered, for a major battle.
Why was there a stalemate between the two armies for so long?
Answer: The stalemate described in 1 Samuel 17 was primarily due to the Philistine champion Goliath's challenge. Instead of a full-scale battle, which would be costly in terms of lives and resources, Goliath proposed a single-combat duel to decide the outcome of the war. The Israelite army, including King Saul, was terrified of Goliath and no one dared to accept his challenge (see 1 Samuel 17:11). This fear, combined with the strategic positioning of both armies, created a tense standoff that lasted for forty days, as neither side wanted to initiate a full battle without a clear advantage, and Israel lacked a champion willing to face Goliath, leading to a prolonged and demoralizing impasse.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Samuel 17:21, depicting two formidable armies arrayed "army against army," powerfully foreshadows the ultimate spiritual battle and the champion who would secure eternal victory for humanity. Just as Israel faced an overwhelming foe in Goliath and a seemingly insurmountable stalemate, humanity stood helpless and condemned before the arrayed forces of sin, death, and the devil. No human king, mighty warrior, or strategic array could break this spiritual deadlock or pay the infinite debt of sin. However, the true and eternal Champion, Jesus Christ—the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29) and the "Lion of the tribe of Judah" (Revelation 5:5)—entered the arena. He did not come with earthly armies or conventional weapons, but with the divine power of God, to confront the ultimate Goliath: Satan and the dominion of sin. His sacrificial death on the cross, often perceived as weakness by the world, was the decisive blow that disarmed the spiritual principalities and powers, triumphing over them publicly (Colossians 2:15). His glorious resurrection declared His ultimate and decisive victory, ensuring that the "battle" for humanity's salvation was won not by human might or strategic array, but by the perfect sacrifice, obedient life, and resurrection power of God's chosen Champion. Through Christ, believers are now empowered to stand firm in the ongoing spiritual battle, knowing that the decisive victory has already been secured, making us "more than conquerors" through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37-39).