1 Samuel is a book of barrenness and battles, kings and schemes, shepherds and giants. It recounts the history of Israel as it moved from no king, to the king it demanded, to the king God knew his people needed.

But its greatest excitement lies not in the events and characters, but in the person they all point to. 1 Samuel presents us with a wonderful picture of Jesus. Seeing him in and through this Old Testament book enables us to see him with fresh color and texture, and see afresh what it means for us to follow him today as our Ruler and Rescuer. 1 Samuel is a book about ancient times, that speaks directly into ours.

Written for people of every age and stage, from new believers to pastors and teachers, you can read through this accessible commentary as a normal book, work through it devotionally, or use it as you prepare for teaching or preaching a passage. As you read, you'll pay close attention to the text and clean insights into the original historical, cultural, and biblical context while gaining clear and grounded application for Christians today.