1 Samuel 28:16

"Why do you consult me," asked Samuel, "since the LORD has turned away from you and become your enemy?

Study Bible

Why do you consult me
This phrase is a direct question from the prophet Samuel, who has been summoned by Saul through a medium. The Hebrew root for "consult" is "שָׁאַל" (sha'al), which means to inquire or ask. In the context of ancient Israel, consulting a prophet was a common practice for seeking divine guidance. However, Saul's attempt to consult Samuel after his death through forbidden means highlights his desperation and the gravity of his spiritual decline. This question underscores the futility of seeking guidance from God’s prophet when one is in disobedience to God’s commands.

asked Samuel
Samuel, though deceased, is brought back in this narrative, which is unique in the biblical text. Samuel was a significant figure in Israel's history, serving as the last judge and a prophet who anointed the first two kings of Israel. His presence here, even after death, emphasizes the seriousness of Saul's situation. The historical context shows that Samuel was a man of God whose words carried weight and authority, and his questioning of Saul serves as a reminder of the broken relationship between Saul and God.

since the LORD has turned away from you
The phrase "the LORD has turned away" is critical, as it indicates a divine rejection. The Hebrew word for "turned away" is "סָר" (sar), meaning to depart or turn aside. This turning away signifies a severance of the relationship between Saul and God due to Saul's repeated disobedience. In the broader scriptural context, God’s turning away is often a result of persistent sin and rebellion, leading to a loss of divine favor and guidance.

and become your enemy?
The transformation of God from an ally to an enemy is a profound and sobering statement. The Hebrew word for "enemy" is "אֹיֵב" (oyev), which denotes hostility and opposition. This reflects the severity of Saul's spiritual state and the consequences of his actions. In the biblical narrative, God becoming an enemy is a rare and dire situation, emphasizing the seriousness of Saul's estrangement from God. It serves as a warning of the dangers of disobedience and the importance of maintaining a faithful relationship with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet of God who anointed Saul as the first king of Israel. In this passage, he appears posthumously, summoned by the witch of Endor at Saul's request.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has fallen out of favor with God due to his disobedience. In desperation, he seeks guidance from Samuel through a medium.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who has rejected Saul as king due to his repeated disobedience and failure to follow divine instructions.

4. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where Saul visits a medium to summon the spirit of Samuel, despite having previously banned such practices.

5. The Witch of Endor
A medium who Saul consults to bring up the spirit of Samuel, highlighting Saul's desperation and disobedience to God's laws.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's life illustrates the severe consequences of disobedience to God. His failure to follow God's commands led to his downfall and estrangement from God.

Seeking God’s Guidance
Instead of turning to forbidden practices, believers should seek God's guidance through prayer and His Word. Saul's choice to consult a medium shows a lack of faith and trust in God.

The Importance of Repentance
Saul's account underscores the importance of genuine repentance. Despite his remorse, Saul did not truly repent, which is crucial for restoring a relationship with God.

God’s Sovereignty
This passage reminds us of God's sovereignty and the futility of trying to circumvent His will. Saul's attempts to gain control through forbidden means only led to further alienation from God.

The Role of Fear and Desperation
Fear and desperation can lead to poor decisions. Saul's fear of the Philistines drove him to seek forbidden counsel, highlighting the need for faith and trust in God during difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the key factors that led to Saul's estrangement from God, and how can we avoid similar pitfalls in our own spiritual lives?

2. How does Saul's decision to consult a medium reflect his spiritual state, and what does this teach us about seeking guidance outside of God's will?

3. In what ways does the account of Saul and Samuel challenge us to examine our own obedience to God's commands?

4. How can we apply the lessons of God's sovereignty and the consequences of disobedience in our daily decision-making?

5. Reflect on a time when fear or desperation led you to make a decision. How can you ensure that your future choices are guided by faith and trust in God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
This chapter details Saul's disobedience to God's command, which leads to his rejection as king. It provides context for why God has turned away from Saul.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses condemn practices like divination and consulting the dead, which Saul engages in by visiting the witch of Endor.

James 4:4
This New Testament verse speaks about friendship with the world being enmity with God, paralleling Saul's situation where his actions have made God his enemy.