1 Samuel 12:20-25

20 "Don't be afraid," Samuel answered. "Even though you have done such an evil thing, do not turn away from the Lord, but serve him with all your heart.

21 Don't go after false gods; they cannot help you or save you, for they are not real.

22 The Lord has made a solemn promise, and he will not abandon you, for he has decided to make you his own people.

23 As for me, the Lord forbid that I should sin against him by no longer praying for you. Instead, I will teach you what is good and right for you to do.

24 Obey the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart. Remember the great things he has done for you.

25 But if you continue to sin, you and your king will be destroyed."

1 Samuel 12:20-25 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST SAMUEL 12

In this chapter Samuel, resigning the government to Saul, asserts the integrity with which he had performed his office, and calls upon the people of Israel to attest it, who did, 1Sa 12:1-5, he then reminds them of the great and good things the Lord had done for them in times past, 1Sa 12:6-11 and whereas they had desired a king, and one was given them, it was their interest to fear and serve the Lord; if not, his hand would be against them, 1Sa 12:10-15 he terrifies them by calling for thunder in an unusual time, 1Sa 12:16-19 and then comforts and encourages them, that in doing their duty God would be with them, and not forsake them, otherwise they might expect nothing but ruin and destruction, 1Sa 12:20-25.

Footnotes

• [a]. [Some ancient translations] after; [Hebrew] because after.