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Outline of 1 Samuel 23

Theme: God’s guidance, human betrayal, and divine protection
Keywords: Guidance, betrayal, covenant, refuge, providence, leadership, trust

I. David Saves Keilah (vv. 1–6)

Keyword: Deliverance

  • David hears of Keilah’s trouble (v. 1)

  • David inquires of the Lord – not once but twice (vv. 2, 4)

  • Key Verse: v. 2 – “Therefore David inquired of the Lord, saying, ‘Shall I go and attack these Philistines?’ And the Lord said to David, ‘Go and attack the Philistines, and save Keilah.’”

  • Abiathar brings the ephod (v. 6), enabling continued divine consultation.

II. Saul Pursues David at Keilah (vv. 7–13)

Keyword: Betrayal

  • Saul believes he has David cornered (v. 7)

  • David asks God: Will Saul come? Will Keilah betray me?

  • Key Verse: v. 12 – “Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul?” And the Lord said, “They will deliver you.”

  • David escapes with his 600 men before the trap can close.

III. David Hides in the Wilderness (vv. 14–18)

Keyword: Encouragement

  • God protects David from Saul despite daily pursuit (v. 14)

  • Jonathan finds David and strengthens him

  • Key Verse: v. 17 – “Do not fear, for the hand of Saul my father shall not find you. You shall be king over Israel...”

  • Renewal of their covenant – Jonathan’s loyalty contrasts with the betrayal around David.

IV. The Ziphites Betray David (vv. 19–24)

Keyword: False loyalty

  • The Ziphites go to Saul to report David’s hiding place

  • Saul blesses them, showing his twisted view of God's will

  • Key Verse: v. 21 – “Blessed are you of the Lord, for you have compassion on me.”

  • Saul sends them to gather more intelligence.

V. God Protects David at Maon (vv. 25–29)

Keyword: Providence

  • Saul nearly traps David in Maon

  • A messenger calls Saul away to fight the Philistines

  • Key Verse: v. 28 – “Therefore they called that place the Rock of Escape.”

  • David escapes to En Gedi, a stronghold.

Summary of Chapter 23

  • Key Concepts:

    • Seek God before acting

    • God protects the righteous even when betrayed

    • Earthly power (Saul) is limited by divine will

  • Spiritual Application:

    • In times of betrayal or threat, God’s guidance and protection are more valuable than any earthly alliance.