Commentary on 1 Samuel 19:20

1 Samuel 19:20 states: “And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets prophesying, and Samuel standing as appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the messengers of Saul, and they also prophesied.” This verse provides a significant moment in the narrative between Saul, David, and the influence of prophetic utterance and divine intervention.

Contextual Background

The backdrop of this passage lies within the larger narrative of Saul's deteriorating relationship with David, who had been anointed by Samuel to succeed Saul as king (1 Samuel 16). Saul’s jealousy and fear of David's growing popularity escalated into attempts on David’s life (1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1). This tension sets the stage for a profound encounter with the prophets that reveals God’s sovereignty and the inadequacy of human opposition to His plans.

The Role of the Prophets

The company of prophets, or “sons of the prophets,” is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. They represent a vital part of Israel's spiritual leadership. The presence of Samuel, an esteemed prophet, adds weight to the situation. As Matthew Henry notes, “Wherever prophets are sent, they are always accompanied by the power of the Spirit.” This emphasizes that God’s Spirit can powerfully influence even those who are adversarial to His chosen instruments.

Divine Intervention

In this verse, the influence of the Holy Spirit is pivotal. Saul’s messengers, initially tasked with capturing David, fall prey to the powerful presence of the Spirit. Albert Barnes highlights that “God often turns the counsel of the wicked into foolishness,” and in this instance, the intention to seize David leads to unexpected prophetic utterance. Their words and actions signal divine interruption, underscoring that God’s purpose prevails despite human designs.

Theological Insights

This passage articulates profound theological truths regarding God’s authority and the prophetic ministry:

• The Sovereignty of God: The episode illustrates that human attempts to thwart God’s plans can be rendered ineffective. Saul’s agenda is disrupted by God’s sovereign power, reaching out to the hearts of those who were meant to carry out his orders.
• The Nature of Prophecy: This event emphasizes that prophecy is not solely about foretelling the future; it embodies God’s immediate communication and influence within human affairs. As Adam Clarke observes, “Prophesying in this context indicates a profound and spontaneous devotion to God.”
• The Transformative Power of the Spirit: The Spirit’s ability to transform adversaries into prophets demonstrates the encompassing reach of divine grace. This notion serves as a poignant reminder that no one is beyond the redemptive touch of God.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, this verse offers several practical applications:

• Trust in God’s Plans: In ministry and life, there will be challenges posed by opposition. This story encourages believers to trust in God’s overarching plans, knowing that He can work through any circumstance to fulfill His purposes.
• Embrace the Empowering Spirit: The spontaneous prophesying of Saul’s messengers serves as a reminder of the importance of living in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Believers are called to remain open to God’s leading, allowing His Spirit to guide and transform their lives.
• The Power of Community: Being part of a prophetic community can encourage and strengthen faith. Spiritual leaders must recognize the role of community in uplifting their congregations, fostering an environment where prophetic words can flourish.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 19:20 is a touching testament to the dominion of divine influence amidst human opposition. The profound interaction between Saul’s messengers and the prophetic community serves as a vivid reminder of God’s power to transform hearts and redirect malice into grace. As articulated by Henry, “The Spirit of the Lord can turn the minds of men at the time when we least expect it.” This narrative calls us to be vigilant, trusting in God’s sovereignty, and open to the workings of His Spirit, which is always actively engaged in guiding His people.