Commentary on 1 Samuel 1:28
1 Samuel 1:28 states, "Therefore I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord. And he worshipped the Lord there." This passage captures the essence of dedication, sacrifice, and faithfulness encapsulated in the life of Hannah and her son, Samuel. The following commentary draws from several public domain sources, synthesizing theological insights that can resonate deeply with pastors, students, theologians, and scholars.
The Context of Hannah's Sacrifice
In the preceding chapters, we learn about Hannah’s deep anguish over her inability to bear children. Her fervent prayers are marked by a heartfelt plea to God, promising that if He would grant her a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord's service (1 Samuel 1:11). This vow illuminates her unwavering faith and serves as a testament to her commitment. Matthew Henry emphasizes the significance of her prayerful dedication, illustrating how Hannah’s desperation turned into a profound covenant with God.
Interpretation of "Lent" to the Lord
The term "lent" here suggests a temporary yet profound act of giving. Albert Barnes reflects on this notion by asserting that it signifies a devotion that is lifelong yet requires Hannah to relinquish her maternal ownership. The act of lending Samuel to God is indicative of a deeper spiritual principle that affirms God’s sovereignty over all aspects of life, even one’s family.
Theological Implications
- Faithful Stewardship: Hannah models faithful stewardship of God’s gifts. Recognizing that children are ultimately the Lord’s and not merely our own, she embraces her role as a steward, which leads to the raising of a significant prophetic leader.
- Commitment to God's Service: Samuel’s life was destined for a unique purpose, echoing the commitment expressed in Hannah’s vow. Adam Clarke emphasizes that such dedication demands intentionality in raising them to fulfill God’s calling.
- Impact of Sacrificial Parenting: This passage challenges parents and guardians to consider the lengths they are willing to go in raising their children. The sacrifices we make can fortify their spiritual trajectories.
Worship as an Expression of Dedication
The latter part of the verse notes, "And he worshipped the Lord there." Here, we see the immediate response of Samuel’s life to the divine calling and the environment in which he was raised. Ever faithful, Hannah not only dedicates Samuel but also instills a culture of worship that ensures he understands his role within God’s broader narrative.
Matthew Henry highlights the importance of worship within the context of dedication, noting that the act of worship is both personal and communal, reflecting an acknowledgment of divine providence. Samuel's worship signifies an internalization of his mother's faith and a public declaration of his commitment to serve the Lord.
Lessons for Today’s Believers
The application of this passage remains profoundly relevant for modern believers. The principles embedded within Hannah’s story extend into various dimensions of life and ministry:
- The Power of Prayer: Hannah’s fervent prayer serves as a reminder that persistent prayer can catalyze divine intervention. It encourages believers to approach God boldly with their requests, trusting in His faithfulness.
- Lifelong Commitment: The concept of “lending” our children to the Lord should inspire a comprehensive understanding of parental roles. This commitment ought to be a central tenet of a Christian upbringing, where parents actively nurture their children’s relationship with God.
- Encouragement in Trials: Hannah’s journey through suffering and despair to joyful worship provides hope to those who find themselves in similar struggles. God’s faithfulness in their lives can transform pain into purpose.
Conclusion
1 Samuel 1:28 encapsulates profound theological truths about dedication, sacrifice, and the importance of worship. As seen through the lens of Hannah, her narrative illustrates the rich implications of giving our children back to God. In pursuing such a dedication, believers are encouraged to reflect on their commitments and the legacy they create as they guide future generations in worshiping and serving the Lord.
Ultimately, Hannah's testimony calls for introspection regarding our stewardship over God's gifts, urging us to train our children in a manner that honors their divine calling, just as she did with Samuel.
