Study 1: 1 Samuel 1-20: Trent Evans

This study in the book of 1 Samuel, focuses not only on the historical transition from the era of judges to the rise of kings, but also on the spiritual transformation that occurs when God's people learn to trust His sovereignty and timing. Through the story of Hannah, we are invited to consider how personal heartache and unanswered prayers can shape us for God’s greater purpose. Her weeping, provocation, and eventual surrender reveal a powerful truth: God's delays are not His denials. As Hannah yields her desires to God’s will, we witness the beauty of transformation—from anguish to peace, from barrenness to life, and from personal longing to prophetic legacy. This study challenges listeners to evaluate how they respond to the struggles of others, and encourages a heart posture that aligns personal desires with God's purpose. Ultimately, the story reminds us that in seasons of silence and waiting, we are still heard by God.

Sermon Outline

Chapter 1: A Heart That Delights in God

📍 [00:00–03:18]

• Personal reflection: If God answered a questionnaire about us, would He say our favorite thing is “spending time with Him”?

• Purpose of The Driven Church: To foster deeper intimacy with God.

• 📖 Psalm 37:4, John 15:5

Chapter 2: Setting the Scene – The End of the Judges

📍 [03:19–06:13]

• Historical context: Transition from the time of the judges to a monarchy.

• The cycle of rebellion, oppression, and deliverance in Israel.

• 📖 Judges 2:16–19, 1 Samuel 1:1

Chapter 3: The Role of Samuel – Judge, Prophet, and Priest

📍 [06:13–09:07]

• Samuel’s unique identity and role in Israel’s history.

• Introduction to key figures: Elkanah, Hannah, Peninnah, Eli.

• God is the true central character of the story.

• 📖 1 Samuel 1:1–3, 1 Chronicles 6:33–34

Chapter 4: Misunderstandings and Misconceptions

📍 [11:39–14:16]

• Reconciling Samuel’s tribal identity: Levite living in Ephraim.

• Importance of biblical literacy and handling apparent contradictions.

• 📖 Judges 17:7, Joshua 21:21–22

Chapter 5: Broken Plans and Cultural Workarounds

📍 [15:16–19:47]

• Elkanah takes a second wife due to Hannah’s barrenness.

• Cultural vs. biblical design for marriage.

• Consequences of moving ahead of God's timing.

• 📖 Genesis 2:24, Genesis 16 (Hagar, Ishmael)

Chapter 6: Provocation and Response

📍 [19:47–26:25]

• Peninnah provokes Hannah year after year.

• Elkanah’s love expressed through a double portion.

• How love and compassion navigate the pain of others.

• 📖 1 Samuel 1:4–6, Romans 12:15

Chapter 7: The Danger of Spiritual Pride

📍 [26:25–28:46]

• When God gives victory to one, it's not for boasting but for blessing.

• Mercy must lead our response to those still struggling.

• 📖 James 4:6, Ephesians 2:8–9

Chapter 8: Pouring Out the Soul

📍 [36:36–41:38]

• Hannah’s silent, fervent prayer and surrender.

• Her desire transforms into God’s purpose: from a son to a prophet.

• 📖 1 Samuel 1:9–11, Romans 12:1–2

Chapter 9: God Hears – Even When Others Don’t

📍 [42:13–46:54]

• Eli misjudges Hannah, thinking she’s drunk.

• God's reception vs. man’s perception.

• Encouragement for unseen acts of obedience.

• 📖 1 Samuel 1:12–18, Galatians 1:10

Chapter 10: Peace Before the Promise

📍 [48:10–56:51]

• Hannah’s countenance is lifted before her prayer is answered.

• She receives peace and later conceives Samuel.

• Samuel = “Heard by God”

• 📖 1 Samuel 1:19–20, Philippians 4:6–7

Scripture References

Word Study