Where do you see pro- and anti-monarchy attitudes?
Follow the story of David and Jonathan. What seems to be the most important lessons of this account?
How does the narrative of the fall of Saul illustrate the differences between other kings in other lands and the idea of kingship in Israel?
Is Saul dealt with unfairly? Is he a tragic hero?
Like other good pieces of literature this story shows more than it tells. In other words, we see the people do and say things in order to reach conclusions about them rather than have the author directly tell us the characters are good or bad people. Where do you see examples of the story showing rather than telling about the characters in 1 and 2 Samuel?
At certain places in the story, the writer shifts from prose to poetry. Look at these two places and see why you think the writer switched to poetry —1 Samuel 15:22-23 and 2 Samuel 1:19-27. See also the beginning and conclusion of these two books—1 Samuel 2:1-10 and 2 Samuel 22:1-23:7.
Follow the struggle David had to become king over the entire country. Why did this happen?
Another key covenant takes place in 2 Samuel 7. Explain what its contents are.
In 2 Samuel 11:20 we see the problems of David. Explain how it illustrates the saying “sin has its consequences.”
Much characterization is indirect and uses contrast to point out differences between people. Look at 1 Samuel 13-14 for the way the writer contrasts the actions and comments of Saul and Jonathan.
God seems to favor David, who is described as “a man after his own heart.” Why is he so favored? Is it because David lives a perfect life? Explain your answer.
How is Absalom shown to be a lot like his father David?
Every leader needs a tough assistant to carry out the dirty work. Who provides David with such assistance? Give some examples.
David is a man of varied qualities. Where do you see him being faithful? modest? cautious? courageous? vengeful? cruel? crafty? big-hearted? penitent?
