InstaStudy

The Oath of Desperation: A Study of 1 Samuel 28:10

This study explores the profound implications of Saul's desperate act in 1 Samuel 28:10, examining the nature of divine judgment, the seriousness of an oath, and the enduring call to obedience and trust in the one true God.

1. The Peril of Disobedience and Desperation

1.1 Saul's Spiritual Decline

Verses: 1 Samuel 15:23; 1 Samuel 16:14; 1 Samuel 28:6
  • Saul's rejection of God's command led to God's rejection of him.
  • The departure of the Spirit of the Lord left Saul vulnerable to evil influences.
  • God's silence to Saul's inquiries highlighted his severed relationship.

1.2 Seeking Forbidden Counsel

Verses: Deuteronomy 18:10-12; Leviticus 19:31; Isaiah 8:19
  • God explicitly forbids consulting mediums and those who practice divination.
  • Saul's act was a direct transgression of God's law, born of desperation.
  • Seeking guidance outside of God's prescribed ways leads to spiritual danger.

1.3 The Weight of a Desperate Oath

Verses: 1 Samuel 28:9-10; Exodus 20:7; Matthew 5:34-37
  • Saul swore by the LORD, invoking the name of the one true God in a forbidden act.
  • An oath made in desperation does not negate the sinfulness of the underlying action.
  • The seriousness of an oath requires careful consideration and reverence for God's name.

2. The Nature of God's Sovereignty and Judgment

2.1 God's Unchanging Character

Verses: Malachi 3:6; James 1:17; Hebrews 13:8
  • God is immutable; His nature and principles do not change.
  • His commands against divination are eternal and reflect His holiness.
  • The one God is consistent in His dealings with humanity.

2.2 Divine Judgment on Disobedience

Verses: Romans 1:18; Hebrews 10:31; 1 Samuel 15:23
  • God's wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness.
  • It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
  • Disobedience ultimately leads to separation from God's favor and guidance.

2.3 God's Authority Over All Powers

Verses: Psalm 115:3; Daniel 4:35; Ephesians 1:20-22
  • Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.
  • No earthly power or spiritual entity operates outside of His ultimate control.
  • God alone is supreme, and all other powers are subject to Him.

3. The Call to True Repentance and Trust

3.1 The Futility of False Security

Verses: Proverbs 28:26; Jeremiah 17:5; Psalm 118:8
  • Trusting in human promises or forbidden practices offers no true security.
  • Cursed is the one who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength.
  • It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.

3.2 The Path of Genuine Repentance

Verses: Acts 2:38; Isaiah 55:7; 2 Chronicles 7:14
  • True repentance involves turning away from sin and turning to God.
  • God promises forgiveness and restoration to those who genuinely seek Him.
  • Repentance is essential for receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit and salvation.

3.3 Trusting in the One True God Alone

Verses: John 14:1; Psalm 62:5-8; Proverbs 3:5-6
  • Our faith and trust must be solely in the Lord, who is one God.
  • He alone is our rock, our salvation, and our defense.
  • Lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him.