1 Samuel 3: When God Breaks the Silence

God calls Samuel amid spiritual darkness, revealing His word, judging sin, and confirming His truth through His chosen servant.

God’s word had become rare in Israel, and visions were infrequent. The priesthood was corrupt under Eli’s sons, and the lamp of God was nearly extinguished—both literally and spiritually. Into this darkness, God called Samuel, showing His mercy to Israel and setting the stage for the transition from the judges to the prophets and kings. This chapter bridges the moral decline of Eli’s house with the coming revelation through God’s chosen servant, pointing to the ultimate Prophet, Christ, who perfectly reveals God’s word.

Proposition

You should listen to Christ.

Because God calls you (3:1–10)

God spoke to Samuel during a time when few heard from Him. Samuel did not recognize the Lord’s voice until Eli instructed him to say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant hears.” God still calls people through His word. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). Acts says “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”” (Acts 17:30–31, ESV)

Just as Samuel learned to discern God’s voice, every believer must learn to recognize God’s voice in Scripture, not through visions or dreams, but through His written Word. Christ, the living Word, speaks clearly through the Bible, calling us to faith, obedience, and service.

Because God judges and saves (3:11–18)

The message Samuel received was one of judgment against Eli’s house for its persistent sin. Eli’s sons blasphemed God, and Eli failed to restrain them. Sin tolerated becomes sin shared. Yet even this judgment showed grace: God was not silent. His word still went forth. Through Christ, God has spoken once and for all, revealing both His righteous wrath against sin and His gracious provision of salvation. The same word that warns also offers mercy to those who believe. Those who believe will receive eternal life. Those who reject the gospel will experience eternal destruction away from the presence of God (2 Thessalonians 1:8-9).

Because God confirmed His word (3:19–21)

Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him. None of his words fell to the ground. God confirmed His message through Samuel, marking the renewal of divine revelation in Israel. Today, God has confirmed His word about Christ through signs and wonders. As Samuel’s word spread through Israel, so Christ’s word now spreads it through His church. God confirms His word today through Scripture and the testimony of believers who faithfully proclaim it.

Invitation

God still speaks today—not through audible voices, but through His written word and the witness of His Son, Jesus Christ. You may have heard the truth many times, but have you answered God’s call? Sin deafens the heart, just as Israel was deaf in Eli’s day. Yet Christ came to open deaf ears and give new life to the soul. He bore the judgment we deserve when He died for our sins and rose again to bring us near to God. If you will turn to God He will forgive you and give you eternal life. Hear His voice today and trust in the Savior who speaks peace to all who believe.