1 Samuel 12:23-25

23 Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by ceasing ¹to pray for you, ²and I will instruct you in the good and the right way.

24 ³Only fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart. For consider ⁴what great things he has done for you.

25 But if you still do wickedly, ⁵you shall be swept away, ⁶both you and your king."

1 Samuel 12:23-25 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.

Cross References

• 1. See ver. 19
• 2. 1 Kings 8:36; 2 Chronicles 6:27; Psalms 27:11; [Proverbs 4:11; Jeremiah 6:16]
• 3. ver. 14; [Ecclesiastes 12:13]
• 4. Deuteronomy 10:21; Psalms 126:2, 3
• 5. Joshua 24:20; [Numbers 16:26]
• 6. [Deuteronomy 28:36]