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After two years as king, Saul is faced with a Philistine invasion. But instead of waiting to confer with Samuel, as he was told, Sauls feel forced into offering a sacrifice, a requirement before his army can respond. Because of this disobedience, Samuel tells him, “thy kingdom shall not continue.”

Notes on 1 Samuel 13:1-23

The judge and prophet Samuel transfers his authority over to Saul, but not without first reminding the people how they sinned in desiring a king.

Notes on 1 Samuel 12:1-24

Confronted by an Ammonite threat against Jabesh-gilead, Saul butchers a yoke of oxen and sends the pieces to each tribe, calling them to war. Israel’s victory convinces the people (and Saul) that he is is the right man to be king.

Notes on 1 Samuel 11:1-15

Saul is anointed secretly by Samuel. He then experiences three signs to confirm this in his own mind. Finally, Saul is chosen by lot out of all the tribes to convince everyone he is the one God selected as king.

Notes on 1 Samuel 10:1-27

Saul’s search from some missing donkeys brings him to the prophet Samuel, who has been told Saul will be the new king of Israel. Jewish tradition adds that Samuel then instructs Saul in the importance of humility.

Notes in 1 Samuel 9:1-27

The people, disgruntled about Samuel’s sons’ activities as unjust judges and fearful of growing enemy threats, ask for a king to rule them.

Notes for 1 Samuel 8:1-22