InstaStudy

The Life and Reign of King Saul

An examination of the life of King Saul, focusing on his rise to power, his disobedience, and his ultimate downfall. We will explore the role of the Spirit in his life, the consequences of disobedience, and the dangers of pride and jealousy.

1. The Selection and Anointing of Saul

1.1 Saul's Appearance and Initial Humility

Verses: 1 Samuel 9:2; 1 Samuel 10:23-24
  • Saul was physically impressive, a man of stature and handsome appearance, fitting the people's desire for a king who looked the part.
  • His initial humility is evident, as he hid himself when Samuel sought to present him as king, demonstrating a lack of personal ambition.

1.2 The Anointing of the Spirit

Verses: 1 Samuel 10:9-10; 1 Samuel 11:6
  • The Spirit of God came upon Saul, transforming him and empowering him for leadership.
  • He prophesied, demonstrating the Spirit's presence and validating his calling.

2. Saul's Disobedience and Rejection

2.1 Disobedience at Gilgal

Verses: 1 Samuel 13:8-14
  • Saul impatiently offered a burnt offering himself, usurping the priestly role of Samuel.
  • This act of disobedience revealed a lack of faith and a disregard for God's established order.

2.2 Partial Obedience Regarding the Amalekites

Verses: 1 Samuel 15:1-3, 9; 1 Samuel 15:22-23
  • Saul was commanded to utterly destroy the Amalekites but spared Agag, their king, and the best of the livestock.
  • Samuel rebuked Saul, declaring that obedience is better than sacrifice and that rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft.

3. The Spirit's Absence and the Reign of Jealousy

3.1 The Departure of the Spirit and the Rise of Fear

Verses: 1 Samuel 16:14; 1 Samuel 18:12; 1 Samuel 19:9
  • The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit troubled him.
  • Saul's fear of David grew as he witnessed David's success and the Lord's presence with him.

3.2 Jealousy and Persecution of David

Verses: 1 Samuel 18:6-9; 1 Samuel 18:29; 1 Samuel 19:10
  • Saul became jealous of David's popularity and military victories.
  • His jealousy led to attempts on David's life, revealing a growing paranoia and instability.

4. Saul's Demise

4.1 Desperation and Seeking Forbidden Counsel

Verses: 1 Samuel 28:6; 1 Samuel 28:7-8
  • Saul sought guidance from the Lord, but received no answer, highlighting the consequences of his disobedience.
  • Desperate, Saul consulted a medium at Endor, a practice forbidden by God, demonstrating his complete departure from faith.

4.2 Saul's Tragic End

Verses: 1 Samuel 31:3-4; 1 Chronicles 10:13-14
  • Saul was severely wounded in battle against the Philistines.
  • Rather than be captured, Saul took his own life, a tragic end to his reign.