Definition: If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from 1 Samuel 17:9. It’s a really dramatic and important part of David's story! Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, David is offering a deal to God. He’s acknowledging that he’s facing a formidable enemy – Saul of Israel – and offers to fight alongside God. However, if he wins the battle, he’s promising to become servants of God and serve Him. Let's unpack it further: “If he be able to fight with me…” – This is David acknowledging that Saul is a powerful and dangerous opponent. “…and to kill him…” – This is the crucial part. If David wins, he’s offering to eliminate Saul as a threat. “…then shall ye be our servants, and serve us.” – This is the payoff for David's victory. If David defeats Saul, he’s promising to become God’s servants, meaning he will obey God's commands and serve Him faithfully. The big takeaway: David isn’t just offering a fight; he’s offering a partnership with God. He wants to be recognized as an instrument of God's will and to serve him in some way. It’s a powerful statement about loyalty, obedience, and the potential for divine reward. It highlights David's bravery and his willingness to put himself at risk for God's purpose. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (like why it’s significant)? Offer a little historical background about Saul and David’s relationship?