1 Samuel 10:11

All those who had formerly known Saul and saw him prophesying with the prophets asked one another, "What has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?"

Study Bible

All those who had formerly known him
This phrase highlights the transformation witnessed by those familiar with Saul's previous life. The Hebrew root for "known" is יָדַע (yada), which implies an intimate or experiential knowledge. This suggests that Saul's acquaintances had a deep understanding of his character and past behavior, making his prophetic activity all the more surprising. Historically, this transformation signifies the divine intervention in Saul's life, marking a pivotal moment where God equips him for his future role as king.

saw him prophesying with the prophets
The act of "prophesying" here is from the Hebrew נָבָא (naba), which means to speak or sing by divine inspiration. This indicates that Saul was not merely speaking but was under the influence of the Holy Spirit, joining the company of prophets. Archaeologically, this reflects the existence of prophetic groups or schools during this period, which were communities dedicated to worship and receiving divine messages. Saul's inclusion among them signifies his temporary induction into a spiritual state, foreshadowing his anointed role.

and they asked one another
This phrase captures the communal reaction to Saul's unexpected behavior. The Hebrew verb שָׁאַל (sha'al) for "asked" suggests a sense of inquiry or seeking understanding. This reflects the natural human response to divine mysteries and the unexpected workings of God. It also underscores the communal nature of Israelite society, where significant events were discussed and interpreted collectively.

'What has happened to the son of Kish?
The question posed here reflects astonishment and curiosity. "Son of Kish" emphasizes Saul's identity and lineage, grounding him in his familial and tribal context. Historically, Kish was a man of standing within the tribe of Benjamin, and Saul's transformation would have been a matter of public interest. This question underscores the theme of divine election, where God chooses individuals regardless of their background or previous status.

Is Saul also among the prophets?'
This rhetorical question highlights the incredulity of the observers. The phrase "among the prophets" suggests a recognized group with a specific spiritual role. The Hebrew word for "prophets" is נָבִיא (navi), indicating those who are called to speak on behalf of God. Saul's inclusion among them was unexpected, challenging societal expectations and norms. This moment foreshadows the complex nature of Saul's kingship, where divine calling and human frailty intersect. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty in choosing and equipping leaders according to His purposes, often beyond human understanding.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The son of Kish, who was anointed by Samuel to be the first king of Israel. This verse marks a significant transformation in his life as he begins to prophesy.

2. Prophets
A group of individuals who were known for their spiritual insight and communication of God's messages. Saul's association with them is unexpected by those who knew him.

3. Kish
Saul's father, a Benjamite, whose lineage is significant in understanding Saul's background and the surprise of his prophetic activity.

4. Israel
The nation over which Saul was anointed king. This event takes place within the broader account of Israel's transition from a theocracy to a monarchy.

5. Samuel
The prophet who anointed Saul and played a crucial role in guiding Israel during this transitional period.

Teaching Points

Transformation by the Spirit
Saul's unexpected prophesying demonstrates the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. God can change anyone, regardless of their past or background.

God's Sovereignty in Choosing Leaders
Saul's anointing and subsequent actions remind us that God chooses leaders according to His purposes, often beyond human expectations.

Community Perception vs. God's Plan
The reaction of those who knew Saul highlights the difference between human perception and God's plan. We should be open to God's work in others, even when it defies our expectations.

The Role of Prophecy
This event underscores the importance of prophecy as a means of communicating God's will and the Spirit's role in equipping individuals for His service.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's transformation challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways can we be more open to the unexpected ways God might work in our lives or the lives of others?

3. How does the reaction of Saul's acquaintances reflect our own potential biases when we see God working in unexpected people?

4. What can we learn from Saul's experience about the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit in our daily walk with God?

5. How does Saul's account connect with other biblical accounts of transformation, and what does this teach us about the nature of God's calling?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9:21
Provides context for Saul's humble beginnings and his initial reluctance to accept his calling, highlighting the transformation seen in 1 Samuel 10:11.

Acts 9:21
Similar to Saul's transformation, the Apostle Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) experiences a radical change that surprises those who knew him before his conversion.

Numbers 11:25-29
Describes a similar event where the Spirit of God comes upon individuals, causing them to prophesy, illustrating the work of the Holy Spirit in empowering people for God's purposes.