Old Testament
1 Samuel 3:17
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Eli said, "What did the LORD say to you? Don't hide anything from me. May God deal with you severely if you keep back even one word of what he told you."
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And he said, What is the thing that the LORD hath said unto thee? I pray thee hide it not from me: God do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide any thing from me of all the things that he said unto thee.
What 1 Samuel 3:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Eli, the priest, is deeply concerned about the message God has given to Samuel, a young boy. He urges Samuel to share everything without holding back. Eli's intense reaction shows how seriously he takes God's words. He even invokes a strong warning, suggesting that hiding any part of the message could lead to severe consequences. This highlights the importance of honesty and transparency when it comes to divine communication. Eli's request reflects a deep respect for God's authority and the weight of His messages. It also emphasizes the responsibility that comes with receiving such revelations. Samuel, being young and inexperienced, might feel intimidated, but Eli's insistence encourages him to be brave and truthful. This exchange sets the stage for Samuel's growth as a prophet and his relationship with God, illustrating the significance of sharing God's messages faithfully and openly, without fear of repercussions. It reminds us that communication with God is sacred and should be treated with utmost seriousness.
How to apply 1 Samuel 3:17 to your life
When you receive guidance or insight, be open and honest about it. Hiding the truth can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Embrace the responsibility that comes with sharing what you know, and trust that being truthful will lead to growth and understanding in your relationships with others and with God. Stay courageous in your communication, just like Samuel did with Eli.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Samuel Summary
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Illustrated scene from Samuel's story: The LORD Calls Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1–21)
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Samuel
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
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Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
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Keep studying 1 Samuel 3:17
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At a Glance — the Book of 1 Samuel
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad
- Written
- Around 930 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites of the early monarchy
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Samuel 3:17 mean?
1 Samuel 3:17 shows Eli's urgency for Samuel to share God's message without holding back. Eli emphasizes the seriousness of God's words and warns that concealing any part of the message could lead to severe consequences.
What is the significance of Eli's warning in 1 Samuel 3:17?
Eli's warning highlights the importance of honesty in sharing divine messages. It reflects his deep respect for God's authority and underscores the responsibility that comes with receiving revelations from God.
What does Eli's request reveal about his character in 1 Samuel 3:17?
Eli's insistence on transparency reveals his commitment to God's will and his role as a priest. It shows that he values the truth and is willing to confront difficult messages for the sake of faithfulness.
How does 1 Samuel 3:17 relate to the theme of courage?
In 1 Samuel 3:17, Eli encourages Samuel to be brave in sharing God's message. This moment illustrates the courage needed to communicate divine insights, especially for someone young and inexperienced.
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