Study Questions
1 Samuel 31 – 2 Samuel 2
Paul J. Bucknell
Saul’s pitiful end | David’s new beginning | Questions
This study is advanced because it reviews the Book of 1 Samuel, recalling what Saul and the Lord did over time. Make sure you’re familiar with most of the book before doing this one study on these three chapters.
- What sad event happened in 1 Samuel 31:1-7?
- Why do you think so many Israelites were over there on another hill (31:7)? What did they later do?
- Identify a few incidents where God had given Saul another chance over those years.
- Why might God have been so patient with Saul?
- Do you think God’s patience with the irresponsible and disobedient is something we should imitate? Give an example of where we could apply this.
- Why did the Lord not install David earlier as king?
- How do we know David was already chosen by God to be king?
- How did putting off the kingship become a test for David?
- So God shows His mercy, but He is also training David. Review chapters 21, 25, and 27 to identify what weaknesses the Lord might have been training David for.
- List at least three reasons Christians should be patient.
- How can a person “abuse” or disregard God’s mercy?
- Read 1 Samuel 31 and 2 Samuel 1. Notice the many ways David showed respect to Saul.
- Why is it surprising that David showed this deep respect for Saul?
- What is it that David does once Saul is dead (2 Sam 2:1-3)? Are you surprised by this?
- How was David broken in 1 Sam 30?
- Did David’s dream ever come true (2 Sam 2)?
- How did Joseph (OT) and Jesus show similar broken-revived patterns of success?
- Do you find yourself impatient for success?
- What area of your life is God working on right now? (Probably your problem area!)
- Explain the dangers of instant success and wealth.
- Why are the small, daily faithful decisions more important to success than the big accomplishments that others notice?