12:11 Bedan. Bedan is evidently recognized here as one of the most important judges, yet his name is nowhere mentioned in the book of Judges. There was a judge named Abdon, however (Judges 12:13-15), for which “Bedan” might be a variant spelling. Also, it is barely possible that a copyist error might have inadvertently written “Bedan” for “Barak,” since the Hebrew characters for the two names are quite similar. Another possibility is that Samson, of the tribe of Dan, might be called “Bedan” (or “Ben-Dan, “Son of Dan”).

12:13 behold the king. The people finally had the king they had desired. Over three centuries earlier, Moses had predicted that the time would come that they would do exactly this (Deuteronomy 17:14-20).

12:18 thunder and rain. A thunderstorm during the time of wheat harvest (I Samuel12:17) was almost unheard of in Israel, and so was a miraculous answer to Samuel’s prayer. It served as God’s reminder to the people of His approval of Samuel’s ministry and of their wickedness in seeking a change.

12:23 I will teach you. Samuel’s great heart, both for the Lord and for the people of Israel, is beautifully revealed in this promise. Although he was deeply disappointed in their decision to have a king after he had devoted his whole life to leading them successfully and with equity, he would still pray for them and teach them God’s ways. This is a great example for Christian leaders who, through no fault of their own, have been replaced by someone else.