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If you’re a child of God, then you want His wisdom. So did Solomon. By God’s grace, he became the wisest man to ever live. Today we’ll look at his life and how God gave him wisdom to grapple with the challenges he was facing. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What do we learn about Solomon’s heart for the Lord in the first part of verse 3? According to the podcast, how should we understand this statement in light of verse 1?  2.    Likewise, what was going on in verse 2? What did this reflect about the people’s devotion to the Lord? How was Solomon joining in this practice in verses 3 & 4? 3.    What transpires in verses 5 to 15? What did Solomon ask for? Why?  4.    What did the Lord give Solomon in verses 11-13? What was the stipulation for this blessing in verse 14?  5.    How does verse 14 help us see what it looks like to walk with the Lord?  6.    What did the women want in verses 16 to 27? How was Solomon’s wisdom on display? What was the outcome of his decision for these women?  7.    In verse 28, how did the people respond to this display of wisdom? Why do people respond this way when they encounter God’s wisdom? 8.    More than likely, you want wisdom. What guidelines did the podcast give for how to have God’s wisdom in a situation? How was this principle demonstrated in Solomon’s life?  9.    The podcast also took a bird’s eye view of Solomon’s life. Where is his life going? How could this have been avoided?  10.    Where is your own life going? How can you continue to walk in God’s wisdom?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Plenty of passages might leave us wondering what’s going on. 1st Kings 2 is probably one of them. Today, we’ll discuss the unsettling accounts of several executions that took place in the early days of Solomon’s reign. Although these may not fit the sense of justice in our day, we’ll see that they ultimately remind us to be looking for the Kingdom of Christ. DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    As this chapter opens, what does verse 1 let us know is about to happen?  2.    The podcast reminds us that Solomon is regarded as the wisest person who ever lived. According to his words in Proverbs 4:3, where did he get his wisdom? 3.    In verses 2-4, David gives Solomon three primary exhortations for life. What are they?  a.     b.     c.     4.    In verses 5-9, David gives various instructions regarding various people. What might these instructions show us about the condition of David’s heart at this point? 5.    After David died in verse 10, how was Solomon’s kingdom described in verse 12? What does this tell us about the Lord’s blessings upon Solomon?  6.    Later, in verse 13, Adonijah wanted Solomon to give him David’s handmaiden, Abishag. How does Solomon interpret this request in verse 22? What happens to Adonijah in verse 25? 7.    Next, the passage focuses on Joab who was one of the men who supported Adonijah. What happened to Joab in verse 34? 8.    Verses 36 to 46 ends with the account of Shimei. Shimei was one of the people who mocked David back in 2nd Samuel 16. What happens to Shimei in this passage?  9.    The podcast reviews this passage in the light of people who disregarded law. Adonijah followed the law of self. Joab followed the law of ruthlessness and personal whim. Shimei disregarded the law. How are people sometimes a “law unto themselves” even today?  10.    How does the events of this chapter further help us see that the kingdoms ruled by mere men will always be imperfect? How does this help us focus on the kingdom of Christ?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

There are times when life can bring us all kinds of tumultuous upheaval. We may even be in the “right” but having everything go against us. Today in our study of 1st Kings 1, we’ll see that as Solomon become king, several people had to follow a difficult path; yet they were ultimately blessed by the Lord for their faithfulness. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The opening verses give us an unsettling situation with David. What does this tell us about David and his probity at this point in his life?  2.    In verse 5, what did David’s son Adonijah decide to do? How is Adonijah’s decision in verse 5 at odds with David’s statements in verse 17? Given the situation with his father, was this the right step at this time?  3.    Which people were in support of Adonijah in verse 7? Who was missing from his support base in verse 8? Why were these absences important? 4.    What does this clandestine, secretive behavior indicate about the righteousness of Adonijah and his support base’s actions?  5.    In verse 9, what religious activity does Adonijah have performed? Why do you think he did this? Which example is this following, that of his father David or the example of Saul?  6.    What does Nathan do, in verses 11 and following, to save the day? What kind of courage would this have taken for Nathan? What would be the risk of usurping a young, brash, self-appointed king? 7.    What does Bathsheba do in this passage? How does David respond to her?  8.    What does David say to do with Solomon in verses 33 to 35? How did the people respond when they saw this in verses 40?  9.    How did Adonijah respond to this new development in verse 50? Why did he grab the horns of the altar? What did Solomon say regarding Adonijah in verses 51-53?  10.    The podcast mentioned that Solomon’s decision to ascend the throne peacefully ultimately enabled Jesus to be related by blood to David through David’s son Nathan. How so?  11.    There are times in life when we face all kinds of upheaval. In this passage who was following God, despite the difficult path set before them? What was the outcome of their faithfulness?  12.    What insights can we glean from this passage about staying the course and trusting the outcome to the Lord?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

So, the account of David and Bathsheba is surprisingly well-known, and while it’s a sad chapter, it shows us that no one, not even David himself, is without sin. Thus David, and the rest of us, need a savior. Join us in this sobering account of a respected man’s fall.  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

The Bible is filled with Key Chapters that are necessary to know in order to understand the message of the Bible. Today we’ll study one of those passages as we look upon the installation of David as king. Join us as we see what this passage has to say and how it ties into the overall Word of God!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast gave a brief overview of the first few chapters of 2nd Samuel. How would you describe the political climate of Israel during this time?  2.    In light of the political climate of Israel prior to chapter 5, what is the significance of the statement in verse 1 that “all the tribes of Israel came to David?” Why would this have not been a “given”?  3.    We tend to assume that Jerusalem was always under Israelite control, and yet it was not. Joshua 15:63 explains that it was inhabited by Jebusites. What does David do in verse 7 and why do you think he did this? 4.    In verse 12, who did David recognize as the reason for him becoming king over Israel? How was this perspective different from Saul’s perspective? How do you think this understanding fed into why David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14)?  5.    The podcast explains that Saul viewed his kingdom as something for himself, whereas David viewed it as something to bring about God’s laws to be used for God’s glory. How do we see these differences in the reigns of Saul versus David?    Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Some chapters in the Bible are vital to know, even if they may not seem to be super applicable to our lives. 2nd Samuel 7 is one of those chapters. Today, we'll look at this passage and see how these few verses lay the path for the arrival of our Lord and King. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast mentioned that 2nd Samuel 7 is one of the most important chapters in the Old Testament. Why is that? 2.    In this chapter, the Lord makes several key promises to David. What was the occasion that led to these promises? Why did David’s efforts result in God giving these promises to him? 3.    What was God’s promise in verse 9? 4.    What were God’s promises in verses 10 & 11? 5.    What was God’s promise in verse 12? 6.    What were God’s promises in verses 12 and 16? 7.    Ultimately, what is the kingdom that God is speaking about in these promises? 8.    In light of Matthew 1:1 and Luke 1:32-33, how did Jesus fulfill these promises? 9.    Take a moment to reflect on how you live as a Christian. What about your life demonstrates that you’re living as a citizen of Christ’s kingdom? Is there anything that does not reflect this? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

There are times when life looks desperate and we don’t know where to turn. Today, we’ll look at Saul’s sinful act of suicide and see how it was a reflection of a life of disobedience to God. Although the chapter is short and the topic is difficult, this material helps us clarify what life is about. So, please join us for another key study in a key chapter of God’s Word! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    Think back over what we’ve learned about Saul’s life. What are some principles we can glean from his life? Was his life an example worth following? Why would God not want a king like this over His people?  2.    What is the context leading up to 1 Samuel 31? What have we discussed over the last few days that lead into this passage today?  3.    As you look at 1 Samuel 31:1, how did the battle start off with the Philistines? 4.    What happened to Saul and his sons in verses 2 & 3? 5.    What does Saul do in verse 4? What does this lead his armor bearer to do in verse 5? What did it lead the people to do in verse 7? Do you think Saul’s actions had a righteous impact on those around him? What should he have done?  6.    What do the Philistines do with Saul’s body in verses 8-10? 7.    What did the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead do in verses 11- 13? Why do you think they did this?  8.    As you reflect upon Saul’s life, how was the pattern of his life one of drifting away from the Lord? What does that look like? 9.    The beginning of the podcast mentions the idea of writing your own obituary. While this might seem like a morbid suggestion, it does have a way of putting life in perspective. How about you take a few minutes to write down what you would want said in your obituary? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

We’ve all had times where we wished God would make His will clearer. Today, we’re looking at 1st Samuel 28 where Saul wanted to know what to do, but sought guidance from a witch. This is a stunning passage that helps us connect the dots on God’s judgment of Saul. Join us in another key study in the Key Chapters of God’s Word!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What is the overall context of 1st Samuel 28? Where are we at in the timeline of Saul’s life?  2.    What was in Saul’s heart in verse 5? How do you think this impacted Saul’s decisions in this chapter?  3.    Why was the Lord silent of Saul in verse 6? How did Saul’s actions bring him to this place with the Lord?  4.    What insight does the podcast give us from 1st Chronicles 10:14 into Saul’s lack of seeking the Lord? How can this help us know how to seek the Lord when we’re not sure what to do? 5.    As this chapter unfolds, we find out that Saul seeks the help of a witch. How does this whole situation give us a clearer window into Saul’s heart?  6.    The podcast gave some reasons why God prohibits His people from seeking the counsel of mediums/fortunetellers, etc. What were they? What light does Leviticus 19:31 and 20:27 shed on this?  7.    The podcast discussed the nature of this witch so conjuring of Samuel. What do you think happened here? Was Samuel really conjured?  8.    The podcast listed some ways that God guides His people. What were some of those ways that were discussed? How has the Lord led you through things like those that were suggested?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Although David was anointed by God to be king, his time was anything but easy. Yet today, we’ll see that even when David has an opportunity to take matters into his own hands, he doesn’t. He continues to trust the Lord. Join us as we continue our study of David’s life and his example of a man who trusted the Lord even in adversity.  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast mentioned several times the differences in Saul’s purpose as King and David’s purpose in life. What were those differences? Why would the Lord bless one and not the other? 2.    The podcast also gave a summary of the previous few chapters that chronicled David’s life. What was life like for David during those passages? How does how he handled that adversity point to his character?  3.    In Chapter 24, where is David and his men? What has happened in this passage?  4.    What did David’s men say to him in verse 4? What does David do instead? Why? 5.    How does Saul respond to David in verse 17-20? What do you make of these statements? Do you think they were sincere words?  6.    What can we learn from how David responded to this opportunity to kill Saul? What was David’s underlying reasons that he did not? Why didn’t he take matters into his own hands?  7.    Is it possible that God’s people might give us bad advice? What were some principles given in the podcast for how to decide what advice to listen to? 8.    How is this passage a reflection of David’s total trust in the Lord? Why do you think David had this faith even though the previous several chapters have had him running ragged? Are you running ragged these days? How can you trust the Lord in your situation?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Today we look at one of the most famous events in the entire Bible: David and Goliath. As we look at this familiar passage, we'll see that it has much more to say than simply "conquering the giants in our life". Join us for another key study in the key chapters of the Bible! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The opening verses of chapter 17 tells us that the Philistines were gathering for battle at Socoh. According to verse 1, where was this city? What does this fact tell us about the Philistine dominance over Israel during this time?  2.    The fight between David and Goliath was something called “Single Combat” where a single soldier would represent the entire army. What does the fact that no Israelite was willing to face Goliath indicate about their trust in God? What does verse 11 tell us about their mindset during this time? 3.    According to 1 Samuel 13:22, only Saul and Jonathan had swords. Therefore, who was most likely supposed to go out and fight Goliath? 4.    When David saw Goliath taunting the armies of Israel, what was his response? What were his brother’s reactions to his questions? Why do you think they responded this way? 5.    According to verse 25, what was Saul prepared to give to whomever would defeat Saul? 6.    When Saul turned down David’s offer to fight Goliath, how did David respond? How is that an indication of his abiding & persistent faith?  7.    Who was David trusting in verse 37? What reasons did he give for his trust? 8.    Read over David’s words to Goliath in verses 45-47. What did they indicate about David’s faith and more importantly, his purpose in fighting Goliath?  9.    Saul and Jonathan wouldn’t fight Goliath with swords; what did David fight with? Therefore, what was really necessary for David to have victory over Goliath?  10.    What were some ways discussed in the podcast, that David’s faith was galvanized? How did this faith galvanize his will to act? How did this compel him to fight when no one else would? 11.    What is motivating you to press forward in your life? Can any of your motives be further refined that your life would be about bringing glory to God? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

One of the more unsettling truths we find in the Bible is that God is sovereign over everything, including evil spirits. Today we’ll look at 1 Samuel 16 starting with God’s choice of David to be king, but then we’ll look at His choice to send an evil spirit to Saul. Not for the faint-hearted. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What does Samuel’s grieve over Saul tell us about Samuel and his love for the Lord, the Lord’s ways and even Saul himself? 2.    What does the Lord say to Samuel in verse 7? What does this tell us about the kind of character that God honors? 3.    How was David selected in verses 7-12? Why was this such a surprise to David’s family? What does this tell us about God’s view of a person versus everyone else’s?  4.    What kind of spirit did Saul now have in verse 14? What does this show us about God’s judgment upon Saul? How did the podcast explain the possible reason for this?  5.    How does this also show us God’s sovereignty even over the demonic realm? What light do verses such as Judges 9:23, 1 Kings 22:19-23 and Job 1 also shed on this difficult issue? 6.    Now let’s glace at 1st John 4:4. What does this tell us about the protection that God gives to His people from the demonic realm? How does the indwelling Holy Spirit prevent a believer from being spiritually harmed by Satan and his forces? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

When God gives a command, sometimes we only half-heartedly obey. Today in our study of 1 Samuel 15, we’ll see that this is exactly what Saul did, and he was condemned for it too! Join us as we look at Saul’s heart and learn how to bring our own into wholehearted submission to God. DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What was the Lord’s command, through Samuel, in verse 3? What reasons did the podcast give for why God would have given a command such as this? How does verse 33 shed light on the Amalekites?  2.    What was the outcome of this battle? Did Saul obey the Lord’s commands?  3.    How does Esther 3:1 (and Haman being an “Agagite”) shed light on Saul’s obedience here? 4.    How did Saul justify his actions in this passage? 5.    What was the Lord’s estimation of Saul in verses 10 & 11? Why? 6.    In terms of what this chapter shows us about Saul’s heart, what was the difference between the heart of Saul versus the heart of David? 7.    According to verse 22, what should Saul have done? Why is this the most important step?  8.    What does verse 23 say about rebellion? Why does the Lord characterize these sins in these ways? 9.    What does this passage show us about complete obedience, even when we’d rather not?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Life does not always go according to our schedule. Today we’ll look at an account from King Saul’s life where he took matters into his own hands, and ultimately was lost his kingdom because of it. Join us in a challenging reminder to trust God and wait on Him. DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    How was Saul’s army chosen in verse 2? What kind of pressure with the support on Saul to have victory in these early battles? 2.    What was the size of the Philistine army in verse 5? How does this compare to Israel’s army back in verse 2? 3.    What were the Philistines prohibiting the Jews to do in verse 19? What impact would have this had on their weaponry? 4.    Back in verse 3, what did Jonathan do to instigate this battle? What did this indicate about His faith and character, especially being so undermatched to a superior opponent? 5.    Once the Philistine army turned its sights on the Israelites, what did they do in verses 6 and 7? What does this indicate about their faith and character? 6.    What were the people doing in verse 8? According to verse 15, how many men were left with Saul? How do you think this affected Saul’s decisions about what to do in verse 9?  7.    What did Saul do in verse 9? Why was this disobedience? Why is the principal true from 1st Samuel 15:22, that “to obey is better than sacrifice”? 8.    How did Saul’s actions in this passage indicate He still had a “rabbit’s foot theology” view of God?  9.    What was Samuel’s estimation of Saul’s actions in verse 13? What was Samuel’s prophecies regarding Saul’s kingdom in verse 14? How do you think this would have struck Saul? 10.    How does this passage demonstrate the danger of rushing God? How did Saul take matters into His own hands, and ultimately displease the Lord? How should Saul have waited? 11.    We know that verse 14 is ultimately pointing to David. How does Samuel describe David’s heart in this verse? What do you think this means? Would this be how someone would describe you? Why or why not? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

God calls all of us to trust Him and step out in faith. Today we read the account of when Saul was chosen to be king. We’ll build upon the principles yesterday (regarding Saul’s reluctance) and see that his reluctance was really about a lack of faith and trust in the Lord. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What were the circumstances from 1st Samuel 9 that led to the events of 1st Samuel 10?  2.    What did Samuel do to Saul in verse 1? What did this signify?  3.    In verses 2-7, what were the signs that Saul would see? What were these signs intended to confirm? Did they happen? 4.    After these signs occurred, what did the Lord do to Saul’s heart in verse 9?  5.    How does Saul answer his uncle in verse 14? What does this indicate about Saul’s spiritual condition? How do we understand verses 14 & 9 in light of each other?  6.    What did the people do at Mizpah in 1st Samuel 7? How does that help us understand this gathering here in verse 17? 7.    After Saul was selected in verse 21, where was Saul in verse 22? What does this show us about his character?  8.    How would you characterize Saul’s response to his malcontents in verse 27? Was that the right response? Why?  9.    When you read this account about Saul, would you say that he was surrendered to the God and God’s will for his life? Why or why not?  10.    How was Saul’s fear a sin? How should Saul have responded towards the Lord’s plan for him?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Life has a way of not going exactly has we planned. Today we'll look at 1st Samuel 9 and see that a simple search for some farm animals brought Saul to a divine appointment, and it ended up completely changing his life. Join us! DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    In verse 1, what tribe was Saul from? What tribe did the Lord say would produce the kings back in Genesis 49:10? 2.    What was Saul’s father like, according to verses 1 & 2? How might this have influenced the people to want Saul to be their king? 3.    In verses 3 to 17, how did the Lord prepare the details for Saul to meet Samuel? 4.    According to verses 15 and 16, what would Samuel be expecting from this encounter? 5.    What can we learn about Saul’s perspective on this whole situation from verse 21? How was Saul getting in the way of hearing what the Lord had to say through Samuel? 6.    In terms of application, how did the Lord use Saul’s difficulties to bring him to this divine appointment? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

There are times when the world seems to have all the glitz & glamor and we can be tempted to follow their ways. Today we’ll see that this attitude motivated the Israelites to seek a king. Although the Lord gave them their request, it was not without stern warning.  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    The podcast opens with the social context of this chapter. How might the Philistine’s success have tempted the Israelites to copy the ways of the nations?  2.    How old was Samuel at this point? What was his plan for the succession of authority after him? How was that working out?  3.    In verse 5, what did the people want? How did Samuel initially view this demand in verse 6?  4.    What did the Lord say about the people’s demand in verses 7 & 8? How might the people’s low view of their covenant with God help us understand why the Lord says these things? 5.    In verses 10 to 17, what dangers did Samuel warn the people about? Why would a king have this impact on the nation? 6.    What would the Lord’s response be to them in verse 18? How does their low view of their covenant with God help us understand why He would not listen to them?  7.    In verse 20, why did the people want a king? What does this reflect about their view of God?  8.    The podcast points out that Samuel is most well-known for the things he did in his old age. How does this give us hope that we’re never too old to be part of God’s work in this world?  9.    The podcast speculated that Samuel’s circuit ministry in 1st Samuel 7 may have kept Samuel away from his family for long stretches. Why would this be a problem? How would this violate God’s instructions about the role of parents in Deuteronomy 6?  10.    Why is it tempting to look at the world’s goods and to think that their success comes from their wisdom and their ways?  11.    What dangers can you see in this passage about people forcing something to get what they want, but it not be God’s highest ideal for their life?  12.    Finally, who should be our true king and how should we relate to Him?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

Sometimes people try to manufacture good luck through some kind of “rabbit’s foot” thinking. It might be through an actual item or perhaps some ritual or deed. Today we’ll see that when the Israelites treated God like a “rabbit’s foot”, it didn’t go so well. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    Who were the Israelites battling in verse 1? How did their battle go in verse 2? How is that different from their previous battles that we’ve looked at over the past several months? 2.    What did the people decide to do in verse 3? What did this disrespect God and seek to use Him as a means for good luck?  3.    How did the Philistines react in verses 6 & 7? What happened in verse 10?  4.    What was taken in verse 11 and who was killed? What did this indicate regarding the Lord?  5.    How did Eli react to this news in verse 18?  6.    When Phinehas’ wife was dying, she named her newborn son “Ichabod”. In verse 22, what does that name mean? Why do you think she gave her son this name? 7.    As you reflect on this chapter, what principles can you see about making sure we’re not getting ahead of God?  8.    Likewise, what principles can you see about the dangers of trying to manipulate God through some kind of religious act that He is not a part of?  9.    What are some principles about the danger of trying to manufacture the sense that God is “with us” blessing what we’re doing, when that may not be true? 10.    How should the people’s covenant with God changed how they related to Him? How does your covenant with God impact how you relate to Him today? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

What kind of heart is God’s servant supposed to have? Today as we study 1st Samuel 3, we’ll read about God’s call of Samuel and we’ll look at how Samuel responds. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: What did we learn yesterday in our study of 1st Samuel 2, about Eli and his sons? How do you think that contributed to the spiritual condition of Israel during this time?  What was Samuel doing in verses 2 & 3? Why was he doing that? Who spoke to Samuel in verse 4? Was this an audible voice? Why didn’t Samuel recognize it? What does Samuel say to the Lord in verse 9? What does this indicate about his attitude towards God? In verses 11-14, what does the Lord tell Samuel He is going to do? Who was this judgment upon? Why? How did Eli respond to this message when Samuel told him in verse 18? How would you have responded if this was God’s message to you? In verses 19 to 20, how did Samuel continue to serve the Lord? What did this confirm? As we reflect upon Samuel’s faith, how does his example show us the heart and actions we are to have before the Lord? Where does this come from? How can we grow in these? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

One of the most common accusations against Christians is that they’re “hypocrites”. While this accusation is often not justified, sometimes it is. Today we will look at 1st Samuel 2, which is a study in contrasts. We’ll see the contrasts between a godly woman, hypocritical leaders, and a godly young man. Join us for another practical study in God’s Word. DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    In our study, yesterday, of 1st Samuel 1, what did Hannah pray? What did she do with Samuel when the Lord answered her prayer? 2.    Verses 1 to 11 contains one of the longest prayers from a woman in the entire Bible. It’s a beautiful prayer. As you read over this prayer, how does Hannah’s prayer life and the content of her prayers compare to yours? 3.    In verse 1, what is Hannah’s view of the Lord? Why does she exalt Him? 4.    In verses 2 - 4, what does Hannah exult about the Lord? 5.    What are the doctrines of God that Hannah praises God for in verses 6 to 10? Are there places where you can you follow her example and bring rich doctrine into your prayers? Which ones? Are any of these doctrines difficult for you to even pray? If so, why?  6.    In a bit of spiritual whiplash, now we look at the example of Eli’s sons Hophni and Phinehas. How are they described in verse 12? How do their actions in this chapter confirm this description of them? 7.    What would they do in verses 13 to 16? How is this a violation of the sacredness that was necessary for the sacrifices in the book of Leviticus? 8.    What is the Lord’s view of their actions in verse 17? 9.    How did they respond to Eli’s admonishments in verses 22 - 25? How should they have responded to him?  10.    In verse 29, what did the Lord say to Eli about his own values when it comes to things of the Lord? How is it possible to put our children before the Lord today? How can we guard against this possibility? 11.    How would you describe this hypocrisy of Eli and his sons? What were its roots? How should it have been rooted out? 12.    What was the Lord’s judgment upon them in verses 31 to 34?  13.    In verse 35, who will God raise up instead? In verses 18 and 26, how was Samuel different from these men? 14.    This chapter gives us a powerful example of contrasts. What were the contrasts between Hannah and Eli’s sons and Samuel? As you think about your own life, is there any area of hypocrisy that needs to be rooted out? Are there any steps you can take to be more like Hannah and Samuel? Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.   

There are times in life when God answers our prayers in ways that are slower than we’d like. Today, we’ll look at 1st Samuel 1, and see how Hannah trusted the Lord as she waited for Him to answer her prayers. Join us!  DISCUSSION AND STUDY QUESTIONS: 1.    What did the podcast say about the religious stability of the people of 1st Samuel during these opening chapters? What led to this condition?  2.    In verse 2, Elkanah has two wives. Although this was technically permissible in the Old Testament, what kinds of problems did the podcast explain that these marriages tended to produce? Why? 3.    What is the significance of Shiloh in verse 3? What later happened to Shiloh in Jeremiah 7:12-14? What does this tell us about the spiritual drift that is commonplace among people?  4.    In verses 4: & 5, what kind of offering did Elkanah present to the Lord? From our studies in Leviticus 3, what were these offerings for? Why were they eating of this offering?  5.    In verses 5 & 6, what was Hannah’s condition? What caused this?  6.    Who did Hannah call upon in verse 11? What name did she use? What did this name mean?  7.    How did Eli treat Hannah in verse 12? What did this reflect about Eli’s (and the nation’s) spiritual alertness? Are there times or ways that we can be oblivious to the work of God’s Spirit that is going on around us? 8.    What happened in verse 20? Why do you think the Lord waited until now to bless Hannah in this way? 9.    What does Hannah do in verse 24? How is this a fulfillment of Votive Offerings from Numbers 15:8-10? 10.    In what ways did Hannah dedicate Samuel to the Lord in verse 24? How is this a picture of what it looks like to dedicate everything to Him?  Check out our new Bible Study Guide on the Key Chapters of Genesis! Available on Amazon just in time for the Genesis relaunch in January! To see our dedicated podcast website with access to all our episodes and other resources, visit us at: www.keychapters.org. Find us on all major platforms, or use these direct links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OqbnDRrfuyHRmkpUSyoHv Itunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/366-key-chapters-in-the-bible/id1493571819 YouTube: Key Chapters of the Bible on YouTube. As always, we are grateful to be included in the "Top 100 Bible Podcasts to Follow" from Feedspot.com. Also for regularly being awarded "Podcast of the Day" from PlayerFM. Special thanks to Joseph McDade for providing our theme music.