1 Samuel 28:15

Then Samuel said to Saul, "Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?" "I am deeply distressed," replied Saul. "The Philistines are fighting against me, and God has turned away from me. He no longer answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. So I have called on you to tell me what to do."

Study Bible

Then Samuel said to Saul
This phrase marks a significant moment where the prophet Samuel, though deceased, communicates with Saul. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or proclamation, indicating the gravity of the message. Samuel's appearance, facilitated by a medium, underscores the desperation and spiritual decline of Saul, who resorts to forbidden practices to seek guidance.

Why have you disturbed me by bringing me up?
The word "disturbed" (עָכַר, 'akar) suggests a disruption or troubling. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the dead were believed to rest in Sheol, a shadowy existence. Samuel's question highlights the unnatural act of summoning the dead, which was against God's law (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). This reflects Saul's spiritual turmoil and the consequences of his disobedience.

I am deeply distressed, replied Saul
Saul's admission of being "deeply distressed" (צָרַר, tsarar) reveals his inner turmoil and fear. The Hebrew conveys a sense of being bound or in dire straits, illustrating Saul's desperation. Historically, Saul's reign was marked by a gradual departure from God's favor, leading to his current predicament.

for the Philistines are fighting against me
The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during Saul's reign. This historical context emphasizes the external pressures Saul faced, which were compounded by his internal spiritual crisis. The Philistines' military prowess often tested Israel's faith and reliance on God.

and God has turned away from me
The phrase "turned away" (סוּר, sur) indicates a withdrawal or removal. Saul's acknowledgment of God's absence is a profound moment of realization. Biblically, God's presence was conditional upon obedience and faithfulness, and Saul's disobedience led to this divine silence.

He no longer answers me
The lack of divine communication (עָנָה, 'anah) signifies a severed relationship. In the Old Testament, God communicated through prophets, dreams, and other means. Saul's inability to receive guidance reflects his spiritual alienation and the consequences of his actions.

either by prophets or by dreams
Prophets and dreams were traditional means of divine revelation in Israel. The absence of these channels underscores the severity of Saul's situation. Historically, prophets served as God's mouthpieces, and dreams were considered significant in conveying God's will.

So I have called on you to tell me what to do
Saul's decision to "call on" (קָרָא, qara) Samuel, even in death, highlights his desperation. This act of seeking guidance from a deceased prophet illustrates Saul's failure to trust in God's sovereignty and his reliance on human means. It serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of straying from God's commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet of God who had died prior to this event. He was a significant spiritual leader in Israel and had anointed Saul as king.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation due to the Philistine threat and God's silence.

3. Philistines
A recurring enemy of Israel, posing a significant military threat to Saul and his kingdom at this time.

4. Endor
The location where Saul seeks out a medium to summon Samuel, despite having previously banned such practices.

5. Medium of Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in his desperation to hear from Samuel.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's disobedience led to God's silence. This serves as a warning about the seriousness of sin and the importance of obedience to God.

Seeking God in the Right Way
Saul's attempt to contact Samuel through a medium shows a misguided approach to seeking divine guidance. We must seek God through prayer, Scripture, and godly counsel, not through forbidden practices.

The Importance of Repentance
Saul's lack of genuine repentance is evident. True repentance involves turning away from sin and seeking God's forgiveness, which restores our relationship with Him.

The Role of Fear and Desperation
Fear can drive us to make poor decisions, as seen in Saul's actions. Trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His peace is crucial in times of distress.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Failure
Even when Saul fails, God's plan for Israel continues through David. This reminds us of God's faithfulness and sovereignty, regardless of human shortcomings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state and relationship with God?

2. How can we ensure that we are seeking God's guidance in a way that aligns with His Word?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. What steps did you take to restore that relationship, and how can Saul's account inform your approach?

4. In what ways can fear and desperation lead us away from God's will, and how can we combat these feelings with faith?

5. How does understanding God's faithfulness, despite human failure, encourage you in your personal walk with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
This chapter details Saul's disobedience to God's command, which led to God rejecting him as king. This background is crucial to understanding why God is silent in 1 Samuel 28:15.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses condemn practices like necromancy, which Saul resorts to, highlighting his departure from God's law.

Psalm 66:18
This verse speaks to the principle that unconfessed sin can hinder communication with God, relevant to Saul's situation.