D. Genealogy of David, 4:18-22.

Some one has said that Ch. 1 is Ruth deciding, Ch. 2 is Ruth serving,
Ch. 3 is Ruth resting, Ch. 4 is Ruth rewarded.

For Study and Discussion. (1) Each of the characters of the book. (2)
The whole story of Ruth in comparison with the stories of Judges (Chs.
17-21) to get a view of the best and worst in their social conditions.
(3) The value of a trusting soul (Ruth).


* * * * *

Chapter VIII. First and Second Samuel.

Name. The name is taken from the history of the life of Samuel
recorded in the early part of the book. It means "asked of God." The
two were formerly one book and called the "First Book of Kings," the
two books of Kings being one book and called Second Kings. Samuel and
Kings form a continuous story, and give us a record of the rise, glory
and fall of the Jewish Monarchy.

First Samuel.

Contents. This book begins with the story of Eli. the aged priest,
judge and leader of the people. It records the birth and childhood of
Samuel, who later becomes priest and prophet of the people. It tells
of Saul's elevation to the throne and of his final downfall. Along
with this is also given the growing power of David, who is to succeed
Saul as king.