Context and Background

This verse occurs in the narrative of God selecting David as the future king of Israel. The account takes place after Saul's rejection by God due to his disobedience. Samuel, the prophet, is sent to anoint a new king from the sons of Jesse. Samuel's initial reaction, upon seeing Eliab, reflects the human tendency to judge based on outward appearances.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the necessity of divine guidance in choosing leaders. He notes that Samuel, despite being a prophet, is susceptible to being swayed by appearances, a common theme in human judgment and folly. God's choice defied expectation, reminding us that He sees beyond the external façade.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes highlights Samuel's misjudgment as reflective of the broader human condition. He elucidates that the significance lies not just in physical stature but in the heart's condition. This passage foreshadows God’s selection of David, who appears least likely, embodying the truth that God often chooses the humble and overlooked.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke further explores the implications of this moment, suggesting that God’s choice of David relates to the spiritual qualities He desires in a leader. Clarke posits that this event illustrates God's sovereign will, showcasing the importance of inner qualities over outward appearances.

Key Themes and Applications

• God’s Sovereignty: The primary lesson from this verse is that God is sovereign in choosing leaders according to His criteria, not man's.
• The Deception of Appearance: This verse serves as a reminder to look beyond physical attributes when evaluating others.
• Heart Condition: 1 Samuel 16:7, in the following verse, emphasizes that God looks at the heart, reinforcing the idea of inner righteousness being more valuable than outward qualities.

Related Bible Cross-References

• 1 Samuel 16:7 - God looks at the heart.
• Matthew 7:1-5 - Judgment based on outward appearance and sin.
• 1 Peter 3:3-4 - Value of inner beauty over outward adornment.
• 2 Corinthians 5:12 - Paul emphasizes the difference between outward appearances and inner realities.
• 1 Samuel 10:1 - Anointing of Saul and God’s choice.
• Psalm 78:70-72 - God choosing David from his humble beginnings.
• Luke 16:15 - God knows the hearts of men.
• Romans 2:28-29 - True circumcision is of the heart and not of the flesh.
• Jeremiah 17:10 - God searches the heart and tests the mind.
• Proverbs 21:2 - Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.

Conclusion

The lesson from 1 Samuel 16:6 serves to impact not only our understanding of God's criteria in choosing leaders but also our personal lives. As believers, it encourages us to cultivate a heart aligned with God's will, recognizing that true value lies within, beyond what is visible.

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This analysis can serve as a resource for those seeking to understand the connections between Bible verses, providing a comprehensive look into how 1 Samuel 16:6 interacts with themes of divine choice and human judgment. Tools for Bible cross-referencing can enhance your study as you explore the intricate web of scriptural faithfulness and relevance.