"Do not be afraid," the king replied. "What do you see?" "I see a god coming up out of the earth," the woman answered. But the king said to herThis phrase introduces King Saul, who is the central figure in this narrative. Saul, the first king of Israel, is depicted here in a moment of desperation. Historically, Saul's reign began with promise but was marred by disobedience to God, leading to his eventual downfall. The Hebrew root for "king" (מֶלֶךְ, melek) emphasizes his authority, yet here it is juxtaposed with his vulnerability as he seeks guidance from a medium, contrary to God's commands. Do not be afraid What do you see? I see a god coming up out of the earth the woman answered Persons / Places / Events 1. SaulThe first king of Israel, who is seeking guidance from a medium at Endor after God has stopped answering him through prophets or dreams. 2. The Medium at Endor A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in desperation, despite having previously banned such practices in Israel. 3. Samuel The prophet who had died and is summoned by the medium at Saul's request. His appearance is a pivotal moment in this account. 4. Endor A location in ancient Israel where the medium resides. It becomes the setting for this encounter between Saul and the spirit of Samuel. 5. The Spirit Referred to as "a god" by the medium, this spirit is understood to be the prophet Samuel, who delivers a message to Saul. Teaching Points The Consequences of DisobedienceSaul's decision to consult a medium, despite knowing God's commandments, illustrates the severe consequences of disobedience and lack of faith. Seeking God in Desperation In times of desperation, we must seek God through prayer and His Word, rather than turning to forbidden or ungodly practices. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare This passage reminds us of the reality of spiritual forces and the importance of adhering to God's guidance in spiritual matters. The Importance of Obedience Obedience to God's commands is crucial, even when His presence seems distant. Trusting in His timing and methods is essential. The Role of Fear in Decision-Making Saul's fear led him to make poor decisions. We must guard against allowing fear to drive us away from God's will. Bible Study Questions 1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state and relationship with God?2. How does this passage challenge us to consider the sources we turn to for guidance and wisdom in our own lives? 3. In what ways can we ensure that fear does not lead us away from God's commands and into disobedience? 4. How does the prohibition against necromancy in the Old Testament apply to modern-day practices and beliefs? 5. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How can this passage encourage you to seek Him faithfully, even in silence? Connections to Other Scriptures Leviticus 19:31This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, highlighting the sinfulness of Saul's actions. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 These verses explicitly prohibit necromancy and other occult practices, reinforcing the gravity of Saul's disobedience. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14 This passage reflects on Saul's death, attributing it to his unfaithfulness and his consultation with a medium.
People Achish, Amalek, Amalekites, David, Israelites, Samuel, SaulPlaces Amalek, En-dor, Gath, Gilboa, Ramah, ShunemTopics Afraid, Ascending, Divine, Fear, Godlike, Gods, Ground, Hast, Saul, Sawest, Seest, SpiritDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 28:3-15Library So Then we must Confess that the Dead Indeed do not Know what Is...18. So then we must confess that the dead indeed do not know what is doing here, but while it is in doing here: afterwards, however, they hear it from those who from hence go to them at their death; not indeed every thing, but what things those are allowed to make known who are suffered also to remember these things; and which it is meet for those to hear, whom they inform of the same. It may be also, that from the Angels, who are present in the things which are doing here, the dead do hear somewhat, … St. Augustine—On Care to Be Had for the Dead. An Exhortation to Love God There is a Blessedness in Reversion The Covenant of Grace Samuel Links 1 Samuel 28:13 NIV1 Samuel 28:13 NLT 1 Samuel 28:13 ESV 1 Samuel 28:13 NASB 1 Samuel 28:13 KJV 1 Samuel 28:13 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |