In 1 Samuel 16, we encounter a pivotal moment in biblical history—the anointing of David as king. This chapter not only marks the transition from Saul’s failed reign to David’s rise but also serves as a profound foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate King after God’s own heart. As we explore this passage, we see how David’s anointing points us directly to Jesus, fulfilling God’s promise in Acts 13:22-23:
“And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’ Of this man’s offspring God has brought to Israel a Savior, Jesus, as he promised.” (Acts 13:22-23, ESV)
1. The Rejection of Saul and the Choice of David
The chapter begins with the Lord rejecting Saul as king due to his disobedience. God sends the prophet Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king from the sons of Jesse.
“For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, ESV)
This verse highlights a crucial biblical principle—God’s choice is based on the heart, not external appearances. While Saul was tall and impressive in stature, he lacked the heart of obedience that God desired. David, on the other hand, was a humble shepherd, unknown to the world but chosen by God.
Jesus Connection:
- Just as David was chosen while tending sheep, Jesus was born in humility, laid in a manger, and lived as a carpenter’s son before beginning His ministry.
- Jesus, like David, was not recognized for His kingship by human standards but was God’s chosen Messiah.
- The rejection of Saul parallels the rejection of Israel’s leaders who failed to lead the people rightly, paving the way for Jesus, the perfect King.
2. The Anointing of David: A Picture of Jesus’ Anointing
Samuel anoints David with oil, symbolizing God’s Spirit coming upon him.
“Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward.” (1 Samuel 16:13, ESV)
This anointing signifies divine appointment and empowerment for leadership. From this moment, David was chosen to be king, though he would not take the throne immediately.
Jesus Connection:
- Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit at His baptism (Matthew 3:16-17).
- Like David, Jesus did not immediately take His full kingship but first endured suffering and opposition.
- The Holy Spirit empowered both David and Jesus for their missions—David to lead Israel and Jesus to bring salvation to the world.
3. David, the Shepherd King: A Foreshadowing of Christ
David’s background as a shepherd is no coincidence. Shepherding reflects God’s heart for His people—a theme seen throughout Scripture.
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11, ESV)
David’s role as a shepherd foreshadows Jesus, the Good Shepherd who cares for His flock and lays down His life for them. Unlike Saul, who ruled with self-interest, David would rule with a heart after God, just as Jesus leads His people with perfect righteousness.
4. The Spirit’s Presence and Power
Once the Spirit of the Lord came upon David, the Spirit departed from Saul, signifying the shift in divine favor.
“Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a harmful spirit from the Lord tormented him.” (1 Samuel 16:14, ESV)
This transition is crucial in biblical history. God’s presence left Saul, marking the end of his rule, while David, empowered by the Spirit, was being prepared for kingship.
Jesus Connection:
- Jesus was filled with the Spirit throughout His ministry (Luke 4:1, 18).
- Unlike Saul, who lost God’s presence due to disobedience, Jesus perfectly walked in the Spirit, fulfilling the will of the Father.
- The Spirit’s empowerment upon David foreshadowed Jesus’ anointing as the true King of Israel.
5. David’s Entrance into Saul’s Court: A Servant Before a King
Ironically, after being anointed, David enters Saul’s service as a musician, playing the harp to soothe Saul’s tormented spirit.
“And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him.” (1 Samuel 16:23, ESV)
David’s humility in serving Saul, despite already being anointed as king, prefigures Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45). Before David took the throne, he first lived as a servant—a pattern Jesus would follow in His earthly ministry.
Conclusion: Jesus, the Greater David
1 Samuel 16 is more than just a historical account—it is a divine foreshadowing of Jesus, the true King after God’s own heart. David’s selection, anointing, and service all point to Christ’s mission:
- Chosen by God: David was handpicked by God; Jesus is the ultimate chosen One (Isaiah 42:1).
- Anointed with the Spirit: David was anointed with oil; Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit.
- The Good Shepherd: David tended sheep; Jesus leads His people as the Good Shepherd.
- A Humble Servant: David served before reigning; Jesus humbled Himself before His exaltation.
- The King Forever: David’s kingship pointed to the eternal reign of Jesus, who rules forever (Revelation 19:16).
As we reflect on 1 Samuel 16, we are reminded that God looks at the heart. Just as David was chosen over his more outwardly impressive brothers, Jesus was the unexpected King—born in humility but destined for glory. Today, we are invited to follow this King, trusting in His perfect leadership and surrendering our hearts fully to Him.
