◄ 1 Samuel 28 ►
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The Philistines Gather against Israel 1Now in those days the Philistines gathered their forces for warfare against Israel. So Achish said to David, “You must understand that you and your men are to go out to battle with me.” 2David replied, “Then you will come to know what your servant can do.” “Very well,” said Achish. “I will make you my bodyguard for life.” 3Now by this time Samuel had died, and all Israel had mourned for him and buried him in Ramah, his own city. And Saul had removed the mediums and spiritists from the land. 4The Philistines gathered together and camped at Shunem, while Saul gathered all Israel and camped at Gilboa. 5When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid and trembled violently. 6He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urima or prophets. Saul and the Medium of Endor 7Then Saul said to his servants, “Find me a woman who is a medium, so I can go and consult her.” “There is a medium at Endor,” his servants replied. 8So Saul disguised himself by putting on different clothes, and he set out with two of his men. They came to the woman at night, and Saul said, “Consult a spirit for me. Bring up for me the one I name.” 9But the woman replied, “Surely you know what Saul has done, how he has killed the mediums and spiritists in the land. Why have you set a trap to get me killed?” 10Then Saul swore to her by the LORD: “As surely as the LORD lives, no punishment shall come upon you for this.” 11“Whom shall I bring up for you?” the woman asked. “Bring up Samuel,” he replied. 12But when the woman saw Samuel, she cried out in a loud voice and said to Saul, “Why have you deceived me? You are Saul!” 13“Do not be afraid,” the king replied. “What do you see?” “I see a godb coming up out of the earth,” the woman answered. 14“What does he look like?” asked Saul. “An old man is coming up,” she replied. “And he is wearing a robe.” So Saul knew that it was Samuel, and he bowed facedown in reverence. 15Then 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.” 16“Why do you consult me,” asked Samuel, “since the LORD has turned away from you and become your enemy? 17He has done exactly what He spoke through me: The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor David. 18Because you did not obey the LORD or carry out His burning anger against Amalek, the LORD has done this to you today. 19Moreover, the LORD will deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. And the LORD will deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines.” 20Immediately Saul fell flat on the ground, terrified by the words of Samuel. And his strength was gone, because he had not eaten anything all that day and night. 21When the woman came to Saul and saw how distraught he was, she said to him, “Look, your maidservant has obeyed your voice. I took my life in my hands and did as you told me. 22Now please listen to your servant and let me set a morsel of bread before you so you may eat and have the strength to go on your way.” 23Saul refused, saying, “I will not eat.” But his servants joined the woman in urging him, and he heeded their voice. He got up from the ground and sat on the bed. 24The woman had a fattened calf at her house, and she quickly slaughtered it. She also took flour, kneaded it, and baked unleavened bread. 25She served it to Saul and his servants, and they ate. And that night they got up and left. Footnotes: 6 a Literally Lights 13 b Or I see a spirit or I see a divine being Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Samuel 28 Summary Saul and the Medium of Endor Verses 1–2 – David Pressed into Philistine Service While the Philistines mass for war, King Achish insists that David and his six hundred men march with him. David answers vaguely, “Then you will know what your servant can do,” and Achish rashly promises to make David his lifelong bodyguard. Verse 3 – Samuel’s Death and Saul’s Ban on Mediums Samuel is gone, buried in Ramah, and all Israel has mourned him. Saul, once zealous, had expelled every medium and spiritist in obedience to Moses’ law—yet Samuel’s absence now leaves him without godly counsel. Verses 4–7 – Saul’s Terror and Secret Plan Philistine forces camp at Shunem; Saul gathers Israel on Mount Gilboa. Seeing the enemy, he trembles. “He inquired of the LORD, but the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets” (v 6). Panic drives him to ask for a forbidden medium. His servants quietly reveal one in Endor. Verses 8–14 – Night Visit to the Medium of Endor Disguised, Saul slips through enemy lines under cover of darkness. He swears by “the LORD” to protect the woman from prosecution—while seeking what the LORD forbids. She reluctantly attempts the séance; when Samuel actually appears, she screams, realizing her client is Saul. The king presses for the vision: “An old man…wearing a robe.” Saul bows, convinced it is Samuel. Verses 15–19 – Samuel’s Unflinching Verdict “Why have you disturbed me?” Samuel asks. Saul pleads that God has turned away. Samuel repeats the earlier judgment: “The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand…Tomorrow you and your sons will be with me” (vv 17, 19). Israel will fall to the Philistines, and Saul’s dynasty will end. Verses 20–25 – Saul’s Collapse and Hollow Farewell Meal Saul falls “full length on the ground” (v 20), weak from fasting and dread. At the medium’s urging, he eats a hastily prepared meal—fattened calf and unleavened bread—then departs into the night, already a king without hope. 1 Samuel 28 stands as a critical chapter in biblical history, demonstrating the stark consequences of disobedience to God's commands. Saul, in a state of spiritual desperation and fear of an impending Philistine attack, resorts to consulting a medium in the city of Endor, against the direct laws of God. The appearance of the deceased prophet Samuel brings a prophecy of doom, turning the narrative towards inevitable tragedy. Historical Setting: Two Armies Facing Off • Shunem sits on the northern slope of the Jezreel Valley, giving the Philistines strategic control of the fertile plain. • Mount Gilboa rises three miles south, where Saul can see enemy campfires glittering below (v 5). • Aphek (27:1; 29:1) marks Philistine staging grounds along the coastal plain, reflecting their steady push inland. David among the Philistines After feigning loyalty in Ziklag (27:6–12), David suddenly faces the prospect of fighting his own countrymen. God will remove him from the dilemma in the next chapter, but 28:1–2 sets the tension. Psalm 34’s superscription places that song in the period of David’s Philistine entanglement, revealing his inner dependence on the LORD while outwardly trapped. Saul’s Spiritual Freefall 1. Rejected Word (15:23) → Troubled by an evil spirit (16:14) 2. Slaughter of priests at Nob (22:17–19) → Silence of prophets (28:6) 3. Expulsion of mediums (28:3) → Secret embrace of necromancy (28:7) Saul’s path illustrates Proverbs 28:9: “He who turns away his ear from listening to the law—even his prayer is detestable.” Mediums and Spiritists in the Law of Moses • Leviticus 19:31: “Do not turn to mediums or familiar spirits.” • Leviticus 20:27: Such persons were to be stoned. • Deuteronomy 18:10–12: Israel must not imitate pagan nations who consult the dead; these practices are “detestable.” The Endor episode shows why: the occult offers counterfeit guidance, enslaves the seeker, and provokes God’s wrath. Archaeological Notes: Endor, Shunem, and Gilboa Endor lies on a slope north of Shunem, reachable through wadis that hide travelers from Philistine patrols, explaining how Saul could sneak past. Excavations near Shunem (modern Shunem) reveal Iron Age fortifications, confirming its significance. On Gilboa, Iron Age terracing and grain pits match the biblical portrayal of a military campsite. Was It Really Samuel? The text treats the figure as Samuel: • The woman is shocked—implying something beyond her control (v 12). • The message matches Samuel’s earlier prophecies (15:26–29). • 1 Chronicles 10:13–14 later states that Saul “consulted a medium for guidance” and did not inquire of the LORD—yet it never calls the apparition a deception. The plain reading suggests God permitted Samuel’s spirit to appear as judgment, not endorsement of necromancy. Compare Luke 16:31, where even a resurrection appearance cannot sway a hardened heart. Prophecy Fulfilled • Next day – Saul’s sons die (31:2). • Saul falls on his sword (31:4). • Israel’s army scatters (31:7). 1 Chronicles 10:13–14 links the tragedy to Saul’s unfaithfulness and reliance on a medium, underscoring the accuracy of Samuel’s final words. Foreshadowing the Cross Saul’s hopeless night contrasts with Christ’s night in Gethsemane. Jesus, too, faced an approaching enemy, but instead of divine silence He prayed, “Not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Where Saul fell under judgment, Jesus bore judgment to save His people. Hebrews 12:24 calls believers to “the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel”—and certainly a better word than the doomed king received. Practical Takeaways for Today • When God speaks clearly, delayed obedience is disobedience; consequences ripple across years. • Silence from heaven invites self-examination, not shortcuts. Fast, repent, wait—do not turn to forbidden substitutes. • Religious activity (oaths, ritual meals) cannot mask rebellion. Saul swore “by the LORD” while breaking the LORD’s law. • End-of-life decisions often reveal the true state of the heart; finishing well matters as much as starting well. Key Cross-References • 1 Samuel 13:14 – Kingdom promised to “a man after [God’s] own heart.” • 1 Samuel 15:22–23 – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Psalm 66:18 – “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.” • Isaiah 8:19–20 – “Should not a people seek their God? ... To the law and the testimony!” • Galatians 5:19–21 – Sorcery listed among the works of the flesh. • James 1:5 – God promises wisdom to those who ask in faith. Summary Thought 1 Samuel 28 paints a dim portrait of a leader who once heard God’s voice yet ends up dining with darkness. The chapter warns against gradual compromise and invites every reader to seek the living God while He may be found. Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 18:10-12 Let no one be found among you who sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire, practices divination or conjury, interprets omens, practices sorcery, casts spells, consults a medium or spiritist, or inquires of the dead. Isaiah 8:19 When men tell you to consult the spirits of the dead and the spiritists who whisper and mutter, should not a people consult their God? James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. Teaching Points Saul's Desperation When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid and trembled violently (1 Samuel 28:5). Saul's fear leads him to seek guidance from God, but he receives no answer through dreams, Urim, or prophets. Forbidden Practices Despite having expelled mediums and spiritists from the land, Saul seeks out a medium, demonstrating his disobedience and lack of faith. So Saul disguised himself and put on other clothes, and he went with two men. They came to the woman by night (1 Samuel 28:8). The Appearance of Samuel The medium is surprised when Samuel appears, indicating that this was not a typical occurrence. Samuel's message to Saul is one of judgment, confirming that the Lord has turned against him. Consequences of Disobedience Samuel reminds Saul of his disobedience regarding the Amalekites, which led to the Lord tearing the kingdom from him. Because you did not obey the voice of the LORD or carry out His fierce wrath against Amalek, the LORD has done this to you today (1 Samuel 28:18). Practical Applications Seek God First In times of trouble, prioritize seeking God’s guidance through prayer and Scripture rather than turning to worldly solutions. Obedience Matters Reflect on areas of your life where you may be compromising God’s commands and seek to realign with His will. Avoiding Forbidden Practices Recognize the dangers of engaging in practices that God has forbidden, such as consulting mediums or engaging in occult activities. Trust in God’s Timing Understand that God’s silence is not an absence; trust in His timing and continue to seek Him faithfully. People 1. Samuel Samuel is a prophet who had died prior to the events of 1 Samuel 28. In this chapter, King Saul seeks him out through a medium to gain guidance. The text refers to him as "Samuel" when he is brought up by the medium (1 Samuel 28:15). 2. Saul Saul is the first king of Israel, who is desperate for guidance as the Philistine army gathers against him. He seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of Samuel because the LORD no longer answers him through prophets or dreams (1 Samuel 28:6-7). 3. The Medium at Endor This woman is a medium whom Saul consults to summon the spirit of Samuel. Despite Saul having previously expelled mediums and spiritists from the land, he seeks her out in disguise (1 Samuel 28:7-8). 4. The Philistines Although not individuals, the Philistines are the collective enemy of Israel in this chapter. Their army's presence and threat are the catalyst for Saul's desperate actions (1 Samuel 28:1). 5. David While not directly involved in the events of this chapter, David is mentioned as being with the Philistines, having sought refuge with them from Saul (1 Samuel 28:1-2). 6. Achish Achish is the king of Gath, a Philistine city, who trusts David and expects him to fight alongside the Philistines against Israel (1 Samuel 28:1-2). In this chapter, the Hebrew term for "medium" is "אוֹב" (ob), which refers to a necromancer or someone who communicates with the dead. Saul's actions in seeking out the medium highlight his desperation and departure from God's commands, as consulting mediums was forbidden in Israelite law (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Places 1. Gilboa In 1 Samuel 28:4, the Philistines gather and camp at Shunem, while Saul assembles all Israel and camps at Gilboa. Gilboa is a mountain range in northern Israel, significant in biblical history as the site of Saul's final battle. The Hebrew root for Gilboa (גִּלְבֹּעַ) suggests a place of bubbling springs or a boiling cauldron, which may metaphorically relate to the turmoil Saul experiences. 2. Endor In 1 Samuel 28:7, Saul seeks out a medium at Endor. Endor is a village in the territory of Issachar, located near the Jezreel Valley. The Hebrew name Endor (עֵין־דּוֹר) can be translated as "spring of the dwelling," indicating a place with a water source, which was crucial for settlement in ancient times. 3. Shunem In 1 Samuel 28:4, the Philistines camp at Shunem. Shunem is a town in the territory of Issachar, situated in the Jezreel Valley. The Hebrew root for Shunem (שׁוּנֵם) is not entirely clear, but it is known as a place of strategic military importance due to its location. Events 1. Philistine Army Gathers at Shunem The Philistines assemble their forces at Shunem, preparing for battle against Israel. This sets the stage for the subsequent events as the Philistines pose a significant threat to Israel. 2. Saul Sees the Philistine Camp and is Afraid Saul observes the Philistine army and is filled with fear. His fear is indicative of his spiritual and emotional state, as he is without the guidance of the Lord. 3. Saul Inquires of the Lord Saul seeks guidance from the Lord, but receives no answer through dreams, the Urim, or prophets. This silence from God highlights Saul's estrangement from divine guidance. 4. Saul Seeks a Medium at Endor In desperation, Saul instructs his servants to find a woman who is a medium, despite having previously expelled such individuals from the land. This act of seeking a medium is contrary to the law of God. 5. Saul Disguises Himself and Visits the Medium Saul disguises himself and visits the medium at Endor by night, asking her to conjure up the spirit of Samuel. His disguise and the timing of his visit reflect his awareness of the wrongdoing. 6. The Medium Conjures Samuel's Spirit The medium is initially hesitant but proceeds to summon Samuel's spirit when Saul assures her of safety. The appearance of Samuel's spirit is a pivotal moment, as it is unexpected even for the medium. 7. Samuel's Spirit Rebukes Saul Samuel's spirit questions why Saul has disturbed him and delivers a message of judgment, reiterating that the Lord has turned against Saul and given the kingdom to David. This encounter underscores the finality of Saul's rejection by God. 8. Saul Learns of His Impending Defeat and Death Samuel's spirit foretells that the Philistines will defeat Israel and that Saul and his sons will die the next day. This prophecy seals Saul's fate and marks the end of his reign. 9. Saul is Overcome with Fear and Weakness Overwhelmed by the prophecy, Saul collapses in fear and weakness, having not eaten all day and night. His physical and emotional state reflects his spiritual desolation. 10. The Medium and Saul's Servants Urge Him to Eat The medium and Saul's servants persuade him to eat to regain his strength. This act of hospitality contrasts with the grim news Saul has received. 11. Saul Eats and Departs into the Night After eating, Saul and his servants leave the medium's house and return to their camp under the cover of night. This departure signifies Saul's return to face his impending doom. Lessons from 1 Samuel 28 1. Seek God, Not Mediums In 1 Samuel 28, Saul's desperation leads him to consult a medium, a choice that starkly contrasts with God's commands. The Bible clearly states, "Do not turn to mediums or spiritists; do not seek them out to be defiled by them. I am the LORD your God" (Leviticus 19:31). This story reminds us to seek God in times of trouble, trusting in His wisdom and guidance rather than turning to forbidden practices. 2. The Consequences of Disobedience Saul's decision to consult a medium is a direct result of his earlier disobedience to God. This chapter illustrates the long-term consequences of straying from God's path. As it is written, "For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry" (1 Samuel 15:23). Obedience to God is not just a command but a safeguard for our lives. 3. The Silence of God When Saul seeks God's guidance and receives no answer, it highlights the importance of maintaining a close relationship with God. "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18). This silence serves as a reminder to keep our hearts pure and our communication with God open and sincere. 4. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare The encounter with the medium at Endor underscores the reality of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world." We must be vigilant and arm ourselves with the armor of God to stand firm against such forces. 5. The Importance of Godly Counsel Saul's isolation from godly counsel leads him to make poor decisions. Proverbs 11:14 states, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." Surrounding ourselves with wise, godly advisors can help us stay on the right path and make decisions that honor God. 6. The Futility of Seeking the Dead Saul's attempt to communicate with Samuel through a medium is a futile endeavor. Isaiah 8:19 warns, "Should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?" This lesson teaches us to rely on the living God, who holds all wisdom and power, rather than seeking answers from the dead. 7. The Sovereignty of God Despite Saul's attempts to control his fate, the events of 1 Samuel 28 demonstrate God's ultimate sovereignty. "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all" (Psalm 103:19). God's plans will prevail, and we can trust in His perfect will for our lives. 8. The Weight of Leadership Saul's actions remind us of the heavy responsibility that comes with leadership. James 3:1 cautions, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." Leaders are called to set an example and lead with integrity, seeking God's guidance in all things. 9. The Need for Repentance Saul's story is a poignant reminder of the need for genuine repentance. 1 John 1:9 assures us, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Turning back to God with a contrite heart opens the door to His forgiveness and restoration. 10. The Hope of Redemption Even in the midst of Saul's failures, the overarching narrative of Scripture points to the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ. Romans 5:8 declares, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." No matter our past mistakes, God's grace offers us a fresh start and the promise of eternal life through faith in His Son. Topics 1. Philistine Threat and Saul's Fear In 1 Samuel 28:1-5, the Philistines gather their forces to fight against Israel, causing King Saul to become fearful. The text highlights Saul's desperation as he sees the vast Philistine army, leading him to seek guidance. The Hebrew word for "afraid" (יָרֵא, yare) emphasizes the depth of Saul's fear. 2. Saul's Inquiry of the LORD Verse 6 describes Saul's attempt to seek the LORD's guidance, but the LORD does not answer him through dreams, Urim, or prophets. This silence signifies Saul's spiritual separation from God, as the Hebrew term for "inquire" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) indicates a formal seeking of divine will. 3. Saul's Resort to a Medium In verses 7-10, Saul, in desperation, seeks out a medium at Endor, despite having previously expelled such practices from the land. This act of disobedience highlights Saul's spiritual decline and reliance on forbidden practices, as the Hebrew word for "medium" (אוֹב, 'ov) refers to one who communicates with the dead. 4. The Medium's Summoning of Samuel Verses 11-14 describe the medium's summoning of the prophet Samuel's spirit. Saul's request to bring up Samuel reflects his desperation for guidance. The Hebrew term for "bring up" (עָלָה, 'alah) suggests an attempt to reach into the spiritual realm. 5. Samuel's Rebuke and Prophecy In verses 15-19, Samuel's spirit rebukes Saul for disturbing him and reiterates the LORD's judgment against Saul for his disobedience. Samuel prophesies that Saul and his sons will die in battle, and Israel will fall to the Philistines. The Hebrew word for "disturb" (רָגַז, ragaz) conveys agitation and unrest. 6. Saul's Distress and Weakness Verses 20-25 depict Saul's physical and emotional collapse after hearing Samuel's words. He refuses food, but eventually, the medium and his servants persuade him to eat. This scene underscores Saul's vulnerability and the consequences of his disobedience, as the Hebrew word for "distressed" (בָּהַל, bahal) indicates a state of panic and terror. Themes 1. Desperation and Fear In 1 Samuel 28, King Saul is depicted as being in a state of desperation and fear due to the impending battle with the Philistines and the silence of God. The text states, "When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid and trembled violently" (1 Samuel 28:5). The Hebrew word for "trembled" (חָרַד, charad) conveys a deep, visceral fear, highlighting Saul's anxiety and lack of faith. 2. Seeking Forbidden Guidance Saul's decision to consult a medium at Endor reflects his departure from God's commandments. The passage notes, "So Saul disguised himself and put on other clothes, and he went with two men. They came to the woman by night" (1 Samuel 28:8). This act of seeking forbidden guidance underscores Saul's spiritual decline and disobedience to God's law, which explicitly forbids necromancy (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). 3. The Silence of God The theme of divine silence is prominent as Saul receives no answer from God through dreams, Urim, or prophets. The text states, "But the LORD did not answer him by dreams or Urim or prophets" (1 Samuel 28:6). This silence signifies God's judgment and the severing of communication due to Saul's persistent disobedience. 4. The Reality of Spiritual Deception The encounter with the medium and the appearance of Samuel's spirit highlight the theme of spiritual deception. The medium's surprise at seeing Samuel suggests an unexpected and genuine spiritual event, yet it also serves as a warning against dabbling in the occult. The Hebrew term for "medium" (אוֹב, 'ov) refers to a spiritist or necromancer, emphasizing the deceptive nature of such practices. 5. Judgment and Consequences Samuel's message to Saul through the medium reiterates the theme of divine judgment and the consequences of disobedience. Samuel tells Saul, "The LORD has done exactly what He predicted through me. The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor David" (1 Samuel 28:17). This pronouncement reinforces the inevitability of God's judgment due to Saul's failure to obey His commands. 6. The Futility of Human Efforts Saul's actions in this chapter illustrate the futility of relying on human efforts and forbidden practices when separated from God. Despite his attempts to seek guidance, Saul's situation remains unchanged, highlighting the theme that true guidance and deliverance come only from God. The narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the limits of human intervention without divine support. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and discernment to seek God’s guidance in all situations. Ask for strength to remain obedient to God’s commands, even when faced with difficult choices. Pray for protection against the temptation to engage in practices that are contrary to God’s will. Seek God’s peace and patience as you wait for His answers and direction in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. If necromancy is condemned (Deut. 18:9–12), how can 1 Samuel 28:7–25 portray Saul successfully consulting a medium? 2. How does the narrative explain Samuel’s apparent reappearance if 1 Samuel 28:14–20 implies he was genuinely summoned from the dead? 3. Why would God, who had stopped answering Saul (1 Samuel 28:6), allow this forbidden method to convey His message? 4. Does the account of an active spirit world in 1 Samuel 28:13–19 conflict with other passages that deny or forbid communicating with the dead? 5. Is there any archaeological or historical evidence confirming the existence of mediums in ancient Israel to support the account of 1 Samuel 28:7–9? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why do you think God chose not to respond to Saul's pleas? 2. How does Saul's spiritual desperation reflect in his actions? Can you recall any moment in your life when you felt similar desperation? 3. What are the dangers of seeking spiritual guidance outside of God, as Saul did? 4. How does this chapter illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God's commands? 5. In what ways does the character of the Witch of Endor defy expectations? 6. How does the prophecy of Samuel highlight the sovereignty of God over life and death? 7. Saul was rejected by God for his disobedience. How can we ensure obedience in our lives to avoid such consequences? 8. How does Saul's fear manifest throughout the chapter? How does it affect his judgment? 9. How do you interpret the witch's act of kindness in feeding Saul and his servants? What does it teach about compassion? 10. How does the prophecy from Samuel affect Saul's morale and his mindset? What might this suggest about the power of words and prophecies? 11. If you were in Saul's position, what would you have done differently? 12. How might this chapter serve as a warning for believers in the present day? 13. In a contemporary context, what might be considered similar to Saul consulting the medium? 14. How should we handle moments when it seems like God isn't answering our prayers? 15. Discuss how this chapter presents human fear and uncertainty. How can we navigate through our fears in our spiritual journey? 16. How can one uphold their faith in situations where God seems silent? 17. In the modern world, we often face choices similar to Saul's. How can we ensure we make choices in line with God's will in our lives? 18. Discuss the role of prophets in biblical times using Samuel as an example. What can we learn from them today? 19. What lessons can we learn from Saul's downfall for our spiritual journey? 20. This chapter depicts the outcomes of spiritual desperation. How can we prevent ourselves from reaching a state of spiritual desperation? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions