Samuel the Prophet

A boy called by the Lord

For a long time, the Israelites did not have a prophet of the Lord to lead them. Instead, judges ruled in Israel for many years. During this time, Hannah brought her young son Samuel to live with Eli, the priest and judge of Israel. Samuel helped Eli in the temple.

1 Samuel 2:11, 18, 26; 3:1

Eli’s two sons also served in the temple, but they stole the offerings meant for the Lord. Some people complained to Eli, but Eli did not punish them.

1 Samuel 2:12–17, 22–23

One evening Samuel heard a voice call him. He thought it was Eli, so Samuel went to him. But Eli did not call him. Eli told Samuel to go back to bed.

1 Samuel 3:3–5

Samuel heard the voice call him a second time. He went to Eli and asked what he wanted. But Eli did not call him. Eli told Samuel to go to bed.

1 Samuel 3:6

Samuel heard the voice call him a third time. He went to Eli again and asked what he wanted. This time, Eli knew it was the Lord who was speaking to Samuel. Eli told Samuel to go back to bed. Eli said if the Lord called again, Samuel should listen.

1 Samuel 3:8–9

Samuel heard the voice call him again. This time Samuel asked the Lord to speak and said he would listen. The Lord told Samuel it was wrong for Eli to let his wicked sons serve in the temple. Eli’s family would not be allowed to serve there anymore.

1 Samuel 3:10–14

The next day, Eli asked Samuel what the Lord said. Samuel told him. Eli knew the Lord spoke through Samuel.

1 Samuel 3:15–18

The news went throughout the land of Israel. The people knew that the Lord chose Samuel to be His prophet.

1 Samuel 3:19–20