All Israel and Judah cherished him because he offered faithful service, bravery, and humble leadership at a time when they deeply longed for godly guidance.
But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them. (v.16) In this passage, David stands at a pivotal moment in Israel’s history, having gained national favor soon after his dramatic victory over Goliath and his service to King Saul. Historically, David (c. 1010-970 BC) was anointed by the prophet Samuel years before this moment, a fact that marked him as God’s chosen successor to Saul. Despite Saul’s growing jealousy (1 Samuel 18:9), David’s leadership on the battlefield and faithful service in royal affairs endeared him to the whole nation.
Here, the phrase he went out and came in before them pictures David moving freely among the people, demonstrating responsibility and transparency. He likely led Israel’s armies, oversaw civic duties, and worshiped publicly before the Lord. These regular interactions with the population of both Israel (the northern tribes) and Judah (the southern tribe)—groups that unified under his future reign—showed David to be a humble yet capable representative who remained close to those he served.
Moreover, this verse highlights the contrast between Saul’s waning popularity and David’s growing influence. David’s actions brought blessings and stability, making him beloved by ordinary citizens. As the narrative continues in 1 Samuel, Saul’s envy intensifies because David’s behavior consistently earned the trust of “all Israel and Judah,” who recognized him as a leader worthy of their loyalty.
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1 Samuel 18:16 meaning
But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them. (v.16) In this passage, David stands at a pivotal moment in Israel’s history, having gained national favor soon after his dramatic victory over Goliath and his service to King Saul. Historically, David (c. 1010-970 BC) was anointed by the prophet Samuel years before this moment, a fact that marked him as God’s chosen successor to Saul. Despite Saul’s growing jealousy (1 Samuel 18:9), David’s leadership on the battlefield and faithful service in royal affairs endeared him to the whole nation.
Here, the phrase he went out and came in before them pictures David moving freely among the people, demonstrating responsibility and transparency. He likely led Israel’s armies, oversaw civic duties, and worshiped publicly before the Lord. These regular interactions with the population of both Israel (the northern tribes) and Judah (the southern tribe)—groups that unified under his future reign—showed David to be a humble yet capable representative who remained close to those he served.
Moreover, this verse highlights the contrast between Saul’s waning popularity and David’s growing influence. David’s actions brought blessings and stability, making him beloved by ordinary citizens. As the narrative continues in 1 Samuel, Saul’s envy intensifies because David’s behavior consistently earned the trust of “all Israel and Judah,” who recognized him as a leader worthy of their loyalty.