This Sunday we begin a series in the book of Samuel for our new study there.  For this week, before we do the verse-by-verse study; we’ll look at the background of 1^st and 2^nd Samuel, and how to interpret Old Testament narratives.  This book, the 2 books, are the story of the rising monarchy of Israel, God’s chosen people.  The true stories here in Samuel give us a view of God (theological), but do not tell us the complete story of any one character such as Samuel, Saul or David.  We are told about them, but to the point of what God is teaching the reader about Himself.  This Sunday we will look at the background information and then look at some important themes that make a point about repentance in the book of Samuel.