God’s people requested the Prophet Samuel to provide an earthly king to rule over their nation. There is nothing inherently wrong with having a king, but their motive was sinful(1 Sam 8:6-9). They didn’t want to trust in God to provide for them. Nevertheless, God did provide a king for them. Today’s study begins an overview of the kings of Israel. This week we examine the life of King Saul.
God chose Saul–an impressive man, a head taller than the rest. He changed Saul’s heart. The Spirit of God came upon him in power (1 Samuel 10). Despite God’s best effort, Saul was foolish and did not keep the commandments of the Lord (1 Samuel 13). Saul’s kingdom would not be the “forever” kingdom through whom would come the Savior. In Samuel 15, King Saul disregards the Lord’s command to completely wipe out the Amalekites. Saul did not kill King Agag and spared the best of the livestock. Despite Samuel’s all night vigil for Saul’ repentance (v. 10-11), God tells Samuel that He rejects Saul. When confronted, Saul minimized his sin and did not confess {despite Saul’s good sounding words, “I have sinned….” v.24). The Prophet Samuel does not forgive Saul, and announces the end of Saul’s reign (v.26-29).
This study walks through 1 Samuel 9 – 15:35.
Handout: The-Third-Genus-King-p12-14.pdf
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