Samuel Called As a Child 

While still a child, God speaks directly to Samuel. In his first message, God reiterates His prophecy regarding Eli. And through subsequent messages and their fulfillment, it becomes clear to all Israel that Samuel has been called to be a prophet (verses 19-21), and God is once again making his will known through a servant of His (see verse 1). "The term prophet means 'spokesman' and refers to one who speaks for another (see Ex. 7:1, 2)" (Nelson Study Bible,note on 3:20).