Beforetime Counsel Directions Earlier Former Formerly Inquire Named Past Prophet Seek Seer Spake Spoke Thus To-day
9:9 (Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to the {f} seer: for [he that is] now [called] a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.)
(f) So called because he foresaw things to come.
9:9 Seer - Because he discerned and could discover things secret and unknown to others. And these are the words, either of some later sacred writer, who after Samuel's death, inserted this verse . Or, of Samuel, who, being probably fifty or sixty years old at the writing of this book, and speaking of the state of things in his first days, might well call it before time.
9:1-10 Saul readily went to seek his father's asses. His obedience to his father was praise-worthy. His servant proposed, that since they were now at Ramah, they should call on Samuel, and take his advice. Wherever we are, we should use our opportunities of acquainting ourselves with those who are wise and good. Many will consult a man of God, if he comes in their way, that would not go a step out of their way to get wisdom. We sensibly feel worldly losses, and bestow much pains to make them up; but how little do we attempt, and how soon are we weary, in seeking the salvation of our souls! If ministers could tell men how to secure their property, or to get wealth, they would be more consulted and honoured than they now are, though employed in teaching them how to escape eternal misery, and to obtain eternal life. Most people would rather be told their fortune than their duty. Samuel needed not their money, nor would he have denied his advice, if they had not brought it; but they gave it to him as a token of respect, and of the value they put upon his office, and according to the general usage of those times, always to bring a present to those in authority.
Beforetime Counsel Directions Earlier Inquire Israel Past Prophet Seek Seer Times Today To-Day Used
Beforetime Counsel Directions Earlier Inquire Israel Past Prophet Seek Seer Times Today To-Day Used
