Samuel: Prophet and Kingmaker

Recognising the benefit that comes from a study of Bible characters, the publishers have commissioned a series of such studies. This volume has been written by A. J. Higgins, who contributed the commentary on Proverbs in the series 'What the Bible Teaches'.

Samuel is perhaps one of the most unsung of the Old Testament worthies. Paul refers to Samuel as a great transition point in Israel's history, "until Samuel the prophet" (Acts 13:20). The Psalmist places him side by side with Moses and Aaron in Psalm 99:6, "They called upon the Lord, and He answered them". The Lord also links him with Moses, employing memorable language in Jeremiah 15:1, "Though Moses and Samuel stood before Me, yet My mind could not be toward this people".

As the last judge, the first prophet, and the introducer of the line of kings, Samuel is a pivotal person in the Bible