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We’ve already seen in chapter 9 how the Lord, behind the scenes, has been working out his plan to make Saul king. Finally, Saul has met God’s prophet, Samuel, and he’s about to become the very first (human) king of Israel. This chapter is full, though, of big contrasts.
On the one hand, we see that Saul is the Lord’s king. In 9:1–8 every step and personal encounter with this new king is purposefully guided by the Lord, as Saul receives God’s word directly through Samuel. In verses 9–11 he’s dramatically filled with God’s Spirit, and is given a changed heart and powerful prophetic gifts. Finally, in verse 24 Saul is confirmed as the Lord’s chosen king. It’s clear that Saul hasn’t appointed himself, but has been called out by God.
On the other hand, we see a lot of uncertainty with this new king. Saul himself seems cowardly and fickle about his new role (vv. 15–16, 21–23). Rather surprisingly, though the Lord has orchestrated all the events, his word to Israel in verses 18–19 is very scathing: Israel will get their new king, but they have rejected the very God who has saved them in the past. Finally, even some Israelites are left uncertain about Saul being their king (v. 27). So, though verse 24 tells us that Saul is the Lord’s chosen king, we’re also left wondering if he really is the king that the Lord wants. This chapter gives us a very uncertain picture of Saul.
We’ll see this double-sided view of Saul work itself out in the chapters that follow. He is, it seems, the Lord’s king, but, ultimately, he doesn’t live up to that role. Thankfully, we’re not in that situation today, as we have a better king with whom there’s no uncertainty. Our King isn’t unclear about his role, nor is he hiding amongst the baggage. On the contrary, he’s risen from the dead, filled with the Spirit and rules with uncontested power.
REFLECTION
Look at Matthew 3:11–17.
1. In what way is Jesus’ relationship with the Spirit greater than Saul’s?
2. In what way is the Father’s affirmation of Jesus greater than Saul’s?
Scripture
About this Plan
1 Samuel charts the rise and fall of several of Israel’s leaders. You’ll meet the notoriously arrogant king Saul and see the ascent of the man after God’s own heart – David. You’ll read of dangerous battles, murder plots, giants and even more surprises in this book. You’ll see that despite turbulence in leadership, seemingly strong enemies and spiritual decay God is very much at work orchestrating the fall of the proud and the rise of the humble. What an encouragement for us today when we are faced with challenges not too dissimilar to these!
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