Understanding 1 Samuel 16:9

Bible Verse: 1 Samuel 16:9 - "Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the LORD chosen this."

Summary of Meaning

This verse is part of the narrative where God instructs Samuel to anoint a new king to replace Saul. Here, it highlights the process of selection as Jesse presents his sons to Samuel, yet God does not choose any of them, emphasizing God’s sovereign choice based on divine criteria rather than outward appearances.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry comments on the importance of God's choice and how it starkly contrasts human expectations. He emphasizes that God looks at the heart and not merely the outward appearance. This serves as a reminder that divine choice often defies human logic.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes focuses on the concept of God's sovereignty in election. He notes that the rejection of Abinadab demonstrates that even the most apparent candidates for leadership, according to human standards, may not be selected by God. This reinforces the theme that God's decisions are often mysterious and rooted in deeper qualifications than what is immediately visible.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the implications of this event in the context of God's covenant with Israel. He discusses the importance of recognizing God's chosen one and suggests that this moment was significant in the unfolding of God's salvation plan for His people.

Cross-References

This verse connects with various other scripture passages that illuminate its themes:

• 1 Samuel 16:7: "But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart."
• 1 Peter 2:9: "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
• Romans 11:5: "Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace."
• Luke 6:13: "And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles."
• 2 Timothy 2:19: "Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his."
• Ephesians 1:4: "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love."
• Acts 13:22: "And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfill all my will."

Thematic Connections

This verse and its related passages allow for rich thematic exploration through cross-referencing Biblical texts. This can be seen in:

• Human perception versus divine insight.
• The concept of being chosen by God throughout biblical history.
• The role of leaders and the divine selection process.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 16:9 offers profound insights into God's selection process, encouraging believers to understand selection through the lens of divine wisdom rather than human understanding. Exploring this verse through biblical cross-references allows for a deeper appreciation of the continuity and themes present throughout scripture.

Cross-Referencing Tools

For those interested in further study, utilizing tools such as a bible concordance or a bible cross-reference system can enhance understanding. These tools aid in identifying connections between scripture and exploring thematic Bible verse connections.