Wesley Corpus

Thus doth God often do great things for his people by the weak things of the world. A youth - Not above 20 years old; and a novice, a raw and unexperienced soldier. The Lord, &c. - The lion and the bear were only enemies to me and my sheep, and it was in defence of them I attacked them. But this Philistine is an enemy to my God and his people, and it is for their honour that I attack him. Armour - With armour taken out of his armoury. He seems to speak of some military vestments which were then used in war, and were contrived for defence; such as buff - coats are now. Proved them - I have no skill or experience in the managements of this kind of arms. Staff - His shepherd's staff. These arms in themselves were contemptible, yet chosen by David; because he had no skill to use other arms; because he had inward assurance of the victory, even by these weapons; and because such a conquest would be more honourable to God, and most shameful, and discouraging to the Philistines. Drew near - Probably a signal was made, that his challenge was accepted. Fair - Not having so much as the countenance of a martial person. Dog - Dost thou think to beat me as easily as thou wouldst thy dog A God - Heb. that God, the only true God, is for Israel; or on Israel's side, and against you. Or, that Israel hath a God, a God indeed, one who is able to help them; and not such an impotent idol as you serve. Saveth - That is, that he can save without these arms, and with the most contemptible weapons. The battle - That is, the events of war are wholly in his power. He will - David speaks thus confidently, because he was assured of it by a particular inspiration. Drew nigh - Like a stalking mountain. Ran - So far was he from fear! Forehead - Probably the proud giant had lift up that part of his helmet which covered his fore - head; in contempt of David and his weapons, and by the singular direction of providence.