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Samuel and Saul: 1 Samuel 8-12
Samuel served as Israel’s last judge. The people recognized that Samuel was getting old, and they were concerned about a future leader. They did not trust his sons, so they demanded that a king be appointed. Samuel was displeased about this, and he prayed to God. The Lord told Samuel to listen to the people, for it was not Samuel that they had rejected, but God Himself as their king. God would grant them a king, but Samuel was to warn the people of the problems that would come as a result.
The first king to be chosen was Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin. He was a “choice and handsome man,” and he was “taller than any of the people.” So he seemed to be the perfect choice for a king. At first, Saul appeared to be a humble man, intent on doing what was right. This was going to quickly change, however. Because of the sins that Saul committed, his dynasty was not going to be established.
Israel was thrilled to have a king. On the day they made Saul king, they offered up sacrifices of peace offerings to God and they all “rejoiced greatly.” To the children of Israel, it seemed like a great day.
Samuel addressed the people again, making it clear that he had walked uprightly with God and before the people. He then reminded them of their past, how God had brought them out of Egypt and settled them in the land. But they had forgotten God, so He allowed them to be punished. Samuel reminded them that they needed to be faithful to God if they will continue to prosper, especially now that they had a king. If they did not abandon God any more from that point, God would not abandon them. “But if you still do wickedly, both you and your king will be swept away.”
Discussion
1. What was the problem with Samuel’s sons? Why did the people demand a king?
2. What was Samuel’s reaction? What did God tell him?
3. Why would having a king ultimately be a problem?
4. Who was Saul? What were some of his characteristics?
5. Discuss Samuel’s speech in 1 Sam. 12. What were his main points?
