◄ 1 Samuel 10 ►
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Samuel Anoints Saul 1Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, “Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?a 2When you leave me today, you will find two men at Rachel’s tomb in Zelzah on the border of Benjamin. They will say to you, ‘The donkeys you seek have been found, and now your father has stopped worrying about the donkeys and started worrying about you, asking, “What should I do about my son?”’ 3Then you will go on from there until you come to the Oakb of Tabor. Three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there, one carrying three young goats, another carrying three loaves of bread, and another carrying a skin of wine. 4They will greet you and give you two loaves of bread, which you will accept from their hands. 5After that you will come to Gibeah of God,c where the Philistines have an outpost. As you approach the city, you will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place, preceded by harps, tambourines, flutes, and lyres, and they will be prophesying. 6Then the Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be transformed into a different person. 7When these signs have come, do as the occasion demands, for God is with you. 8And you shall go before me to Gilgal, and surely I will come to you to offer burnt offerings and to sacrifice peace offerings. Wait seven days until I come to you and show you what you are to do.” Samuel’s Signs Fulfilled 9As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all the signs came to pass that day. 10When Saul and his servant arrived at Gibeah,d a group of prophets met him. Then the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he prophesied along with them. 11When all those who had formerly known Saul saw him prophesying with the prophets, they asked one another, “What has happened to the son of Kish? Is Saul also among the prophets?” 12Then a man who lived there replied, “And who is their father?” So the saying became a proverb: “Is Saul also among the prophets?” 13And when Saul had finished prophesying, he went up to the high place. 14Now Saul’s uncle asked him and his servant, “Where did you go?” “To look for the donkeys,” Saul replied. “When we saw they were not to be found, we went to Samuel.” 15“Tell me,” Saul’s uncle asked, “what did Samuel say to you?” 16And Saul replied, “He assured us that the donkeys had been found.” But Saul did not tell his uncle what Samuel had said about the kingship. Saul Proclaimed King 17After this, Samuel summoned the people to the LORD at Mizpah 18and said to the Israelites, “This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I rescued you from the hands of the Egyptians and of all the kingdoms that oppressed you.’ 19But today you have rejected your God, who saves you from all your troubles and afflictions, and you have said to Him, ‘No, set a king over us.’ Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and clans.” 20Thus Samuel had all the tribes of Israel come forward, and the tribe of Benjamin was selected. 21Then he had the tribe of Benjamin come forward by its clans, and the clan of Matri was selected.e Finally, Saul son of Kish was selected. But when they looked for him, they could not find him. 22So again they inquired of the LORD, “Has the man come here yet?” And the LORD replied, “Behold, he has hidden himself among the baggage.” 23So they ran and brought Saul, and when he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others. 24Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.” And all the people shouted, “Long live the king!” 25Then Samuel explained to the people the rights of kingship. He wrote them on a scroll and laid it up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, each to his own home. 26Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, and the men of valor whose hearts God had touched went with him. 27But some worthless men said, “How can this man save us?” So they despised him and brought him no gifts; but Saul remained silent about it.f Footnotes: 1 a Hebrew; LXX “Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over Israel? And you will rule over the LORD’s people and save them from their enemies around them. This will be the sign to you that the LORD has appointed you to be leader over His inheritance. 3 b Or Terebinth or Great Tree 5 c Hebrew Gibeath-Elohim, meaning the hill of God 10 d Gibeah means the hill. 21 e LXX includes And he brought the family of the Matrites near, man by man. 27 f MT and LXX; one DSS manuscript includes Nahash, king of the Ammonites, had viciously oppressed the people of Gad and Reuben, gouging out the right eye of each Israelite dwelling there. He would not allow anyone to rescue them, and there was no Israelite east of the Jordan whose right eye had not been gouged out. But 7,000 men had escaped from the Ammonites and settled in Jabesh-gilead. 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 10 Summary Samuel Anoints Saul Verses 1–8 – Saul Anointed and Given Signs Samuel pours oil on Saul’s head, kisses him, and declares the LORD has made him ruler. Three confirming signs are promised: finding the lost donkeys, receiving bread from worshipers, and meeting a band of prophets where the Spirit will rush upon him. Saul is told to wait seven days at Gilgal for further instructions. Verses 9–13 – Spirit Comes and Saul Prophesies As Saul turns to leave, God changes his heart. All three signs occur, climaxing with Saul prophesying among the prophets, astonishing the locals and prompting the saying, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” Verses 14–16 – Private Conversation with Uncle Saul’s uncle asks about the journey. Saul mentions the donkeys were found but withholds Samuel’s word about kingship. Verses 17–19 – Samuel Rebukes Israel Samuel gathers Israel at Mizpah, recalls God’s past deliverances, and rebukes the nation for demanding a king, effectively rejecting God as their true King. Verses 20–24 – Saul Chosen by Lot The tribes draw lots: Benjamin is chosen, then the clan of Matri, then Saul. He is hiding among the baggage but is brought out—tall and impressive. The people shout, “Long live the king!” Verses 25–27 – Kingdom Explained and Mixed Reactions Samuel writes the rights and duties of kingship in a scroll and stores it before the LORD. Most people celebrate, but “worthless men” despise Saul and refuse to honor him. Saul remains silent. 1 Samuel 10 of the Berean Standard Bible is a riveting chapter in the narrative of the Israelites. The chapter features the anointment and appointment of Saul as the first king of Israel, a momentous event in Israel's history. The unlikely choice, Saul's transformation into a leader, and the people's reaction to their new king form the crux of this chapter. Historical Setting • Timeframe: late 11th century BC, just after Israel’s loose tribal period (Judges). • Locations: Ramah (Samuel’s home), Rachel’s tomb near Bethlehem (v.2), the oak of Tabor (likely in Ephraim), Gibeah (“hill of God”), and Mizpah in Benjamin, already a national assembly point (Judges 20:1). • Israel faces Philistine pressure (1 Samuel 9:16). Kingship promises centralized leadership against external threats. Anointing with Oil • Olive oil poured on the head signified God’s choosing (Exodus 29:7; Psalm 89:20). • Prophets, priests, and later kings received anointing. Saul’s flask contrasts with David’s future anointing from a horn (1 Samuel 16:1), hinting at Saul’s fragile dynasty. • A kiss (v.1) signals allegiance (cf. Psalm 2:12). The Three Confirming Signs 1. Donkeys Found (vv.2–3) – assures Saul of God’s care for small needs. 2. Receiving Bread (vv.3–4) – echoes hospitality at the tabernacle (Leviticus 24:5-9). It also prefigures God’s provision for His anointed (Matthew 4:11). 3. Company of Prophets (vv.5–6) – ecstatic praise with lyres, tambourines, and flutes reflects worship culture (2 Kings 3:15). God’s Spirit equips Saul for leadership (Judges 6:34; Acts 1:8). “The Spirit of the LORD Will Rush upon You” (v.6) • Same Hebrew verb used for Samson (Judges 14:6). • God gives power, not a permanent heart change; Saul later forfeits it (1 Samuel 16:14). • New Testament parallel: temporary ministry empowerment (Luke 10:17-20) vs. indwelling Spirit after Pentecost (Acts 2). Prophecy at Gibeah • Prophets likely part of a worship guild led by Samuel (1 Samuel 19:20). • Their instruments suggest joyful praise rather than prediction. • Local astonishment shows prophecy was rare among common Israelites (Numbers 11:29). • Phrase “Is Saul also among the prophets?” becomes a proverb of surprise (quoted again in 19:24). Lots at Mizpah • Casting lots sought God’s decision (Proverbs 16:33; Acts 1:26). • Process removed human bias and confirmed Samuel’s private anointing. • Saul hiding “among the baggage” shows humility or insecurity. Compare Gideon’s hesitancy (Judges 6:15). Scroll of the Kingdom (v.25) • Reminds of Deuteronomy 17:14-20—king must obey God, avoid pride, and depend on Scripture. • Deposit “before the LORD” likely at the tabernacle in Shiloh or Nob, paralleling the covenant tablets (Exodus 40:20). Mixed Reception • “Valiant men” accompany Saul, God touching their hearts (v.26). • “Worthless men” question his capability (v.27), foreshadowing later opposition (1 Samuel 11:12). • Saul’s silence shows patience; Romans 12:19 echoes letting God handle vengeance. Archaeological Notes • Oil flasks from the Iron Age, often pottery with a long neck, have been unearthed in Benjaminite territory. • Mizpah identified with Tell en-Nasbeh, featuring thick fortification walls matching large assemblies. • Gibeah likely Tell el-Ful, excavated by W.F. Albright, revealing a fortress that fits Saul’s era. Echoes in the Life of David • Both Saul and David are anointed privately, then publicly recognized (2 Samuel 5:3). • Both receive the Spirit, but David’s endures (Psalm 51:11). • Saul’s waiting seven days parallels Samuel’s later test (1 Samuel 13:8-14) which Saul fails. Connections to the New Testament • Jesus, the ultimate Anointed One (Messiah/Christ), fulfills the imperfect kingship model (Luke 4:18). • The Spirit empowering Jesus at Jordan (Luke 3:22) completes the pattern begun with Saul. • Believers receive both anointing and indwelling (1 John 2:20, 27). Practical Applications • God confirms His calling with clear signs; yet obedience and patience are still required. • Spiritual experiences must lead to faithfulness; early success is no guarantee of future obedience. • A leader’s humility is commendable, but hiding from responsibility can hinder God’s plan. Connections to Additional Scriptures Anointing and Leadership Psalm 23:5, where David speaks of being anointed by God, reflecting divine favor and purpose. The Holy Spirit's Empowerment Acts 1:8, where Jesus promises the Holy Spirit's power to His disciples for their mission. Humility in Leadership Philippians 2:3-4, which encourages believers to consider others above themselves, exemplifying Christ-like humility. Teaching Points Anointing and Divine Selection Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?' (1 Samuel 10:1). This act signifies God's choice and empowerment of Saul, highlighting the importance of divine selection in leadership. Signs of Confirmation Samuel provides Saul with specific signs to confirm his calling (1 Samuel 10:2-7). These signs serve as divine affirmations of God's plan and presence in Saul's life. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person (1 Samuel 10:6). The Holy Spirit's empowerment is crucial for fulfilling God's purposes. Public Recognition and Acceptance Saul is publicly chosen by lot, and the people acknowledge him as king (1 Samuel 10:20-24). This demonstrates the importance of communal recognition in leadership roles. Obedience and Humility Despite his anointing, Saul initially hides among the baggage (1 Samuel 10:22), reflecting a humble and perhaps hesitant acceptance of his role. Practical Applications Seek God's Confirmation Like Saul, seek God's confirmation and guidance when faced with significant life decisions. Rely on the Holy Spirit Depend on the Holy Spirit for strength and transformation in fulfilling God's calling. Embrace Humility Approach leadership and service with humility, recognizing that it is God who empowers and appoints. Value Community Affirmation Recognize the importance of community support and affirmation in your spiritual journey. People 1. Samuel Samuel is the prophet who anoints Saul as king over Israel. He is a significant figure in the narrative, acting as God's messenger and leader of the people. The Hebrew root of his name, שְׁמוּאֵל (Shemuel), can be interpreted as "heard by God" or "name of God." 2. Saul Saul is the son of Kish, from the tribe of Benjamin, who is anointed by Samuel to be the first king of Israel. His name in Hebrew, שָׁאוּל (Sha'ul), means "asked for" or "prayed for." 3. Kish Kish is Saul's father, described as a man of standing from the tribe of Benjamin. His name in Hebrew, קִישׁ (Qish), means "bow" or "power." 4. The Group of Prophets This group of prophets meets Saul as he approaches Gibeah. They are significant in the narrative as they are part of the sign given to Saul to confirm his anointing. The Hebrew term for prophet, נָבִיא (Navi), means "spokesman" or "speaker." 5. The Spirit of God While not a person in the traditional sense, the Spirit of God plays a crucial role in the chapter, coming powerfully upon Saul and causing him to prophesy. The Hebrew word for spirit, רוּחַ (Ruach), can mean "breath," "wind," or "spirit." Places 1. Ramah This is where the prophet Samuel anoints Saul as king. Ramah is Samuel's hometown and a significant location for his prophetic ministry. The Hebrew root for Ramah (רָמָה) means "height" or "high place," indicating its elevated position. 2. Zelzah Mentioned in 1 Samuel 10:2, Zelzah is a location near Rachel's tomb where Saul is told he will meet two men who will inform him that the donkeys he was searching for have been found. The exact location of Zelzah is not clearly identified in modern geography. 3. Tabor In 1 Samuel 10:3, Saul is instructed to go to the oak of Tabor, where he will meet three men going up to God at Bethel. Tabor here is likely a reference to a notable tree or landmark rather than Mount Tabor, which is located in the northern part of Israel. 4. Bethel This is a significant religious site in Israel, known as a place where people went to worship God. The Hebrew name Bethel (בֵּית־אֵל) means "House of God." It is one of the places where Saul encounters signs confirming his anointing as king. 5. Gibeah of God In 1 Samuel 10:5, Saul is told he will come to Gibeah of God, where there is a Philistine garrison. Gibeah is Saul's hometown, and the addition "of God" may indicate a place of worship or a significant religious site. The Hebrew root for Gibeah (גִּבְעָה) means "hill." Events 1. Samuel Anoints Saul Samuel takes a flask of oil and pours it on Saul's head, anointing him as ruler over Israel. This act signifies God's choice of Saul as king. The Hebrew word for "anoint" is מָשַׁח (mashach), which is the root for "Messiah" or "anointed one." ^"Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, 'Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?'"^ (1 Samuel 10:1) 2. Signs to Confirm Saul's Anointing Samuel provides Saul with specific signs that will confirm his anointing. These include meeting two men by Rachel's tomb, who will inform him that the donkeys he was searching for have been found. ^"When you leave me today, you will meet two men by Rachel’s tomb in Zelzah on the border of Benjamin. They will say to you, 'The donkeys you set out to look for have been found, and now your father has stopped thinking about them and is worried about you. He is asking, "What should I do about my son?"'"^ (1 Samuel 10:2) 3. Meeting Three Men at the Oak of Tabor Saul will encounter three men going up to Bethel, carrying three young goats, three loaves of bread, and a skin of wine. They will greet him and offer him two loaves of bread. ^"Then you will go on from there until you reach the oak of Tabor. Three men going up to God at Bethel will meet you there. One will be carrying three young goats, another three loaves of bread, and another a skin of wine."^ (1 Samuel 10:3) 4. Prophetic Encounter at Gibeah Saul will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place with musical instruments, and the Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon him, causing him to prophesy with them. This transformation is a sign of God's empowerment. ^"After that you will go to Gibeah of God, where there is a Philistine garrison. As you approach the town, you will meet a procession of prophets coming down from the high place with harps, tambourines, flutes, and lyres being played before them, and they will be prophesying."^ (1 Samuel 10:5) 5. Saul's Transformation As Saul turns to leave Samuel, God changes his heart, and all the signs Samuel predicted come to pass. This change signifies Saul's divine appointment and preparation for kingship. ^"As Saul turned to leave Samuel, God changed Saul’s heart, and all the signs came to pass that day."^ (1 Samuel 10:9) 6. Saul's Silence About the Kingship After the signs are fulfilled, Saul returns home, but he does not tell his uncle about the matter of the kingship, indicating a sense of humility or uncertainty. ^"Saul’s uncle asked him and his servant, 'Where did you go?' 'To look for the donkeys,' Saul replied. 'When we saw they were not to be found, we went to Samuel.' Saul’s uncle said, 'Tell me what Samuel said to you.' So Saul told him, 'He assured us that the donkeys had been found.' But Saul did not tell his uncle what Samuel had said about the kingship."^ (1 Samuel 10:14-16) 7. Public Selection of Saul as King Samuel gathers the people at Mizpah and, through the casting of lots, Saul is publicly chosen as king. This public selection confirms God's choice and Saul's anointing. ^"Then Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel near, and the tribe of Benjamin was chosen. Next, he brought the tribe of Benjamin forward by its clans, and the clan of Matri was chosen. Finally, Saul son of Kish was chosen. But when they looked for him, he was not to be found."^ (1 Samuel 10:20-21) 8. Saul's Hiding and Presentation Initially hiding among the supplies, Saul is brought out and presented to the people, who acknowledge him as king. This moment marks the beginning of Saul's reign. ^"So they inquired further of the LORD, 'Has the man come here yet?' And the LORD replied, 'He has hidden himself among the supplies.' They ran and brought him out, and as he stood among the people, he was a head taller than any of the others."^ (1 Samuel 10:22-23) 9. Samuel's Explanation of Kingship Samuel explains the rights and duties of kingship to the people and writes them on a scroll, laying it before the LORD. This act formalizes the establishment of the monarchy in Israel. ^"Then Samuel explained to the people the rights and duties of kingship. He wrote them on a scroll and laid it up before the LORD. Then Samuel sent all the people home."^ (1 Samuel 10:25) 10. Saul's Return to Gibeah Saul returns to his home in Gibeah, accompanied by valiant men whose hearts God had touched, indicating divine support for his leadership. ^"Saul also went to his home in Gibeah, and the valiant men whose hearts God had touched went with him."^ (1 Samuel 10:26) 11. Opposition to Saul's Kingship Some scoundrels question Saul's ability to lead and bring salvation, showing early opposition to his reign. However, Saul remains silent, demonstrating restraint. ^"But some scoundrels said, 'How can this man save us?' So they despised him and brought him no gifts. But Saul remained silent."^ (1 Samuel 10:27) Lessons from 1 Samuel 10 1. Divine Appointment and Anointing In 1 Samuel 10, we witness the anointing of Saul as king, a powerful reminder that God appoints leaders according to His divine plan. Samuel anoints Saul with oil, signifying God's choice and blessing. This teaches us that God has a purpose for each of us, and He equips us for the roles He calls us to. As it is written, "The Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person" (1 Samuel 10:6). Trust in God's timing and His ability to transform you for His purposes. 2. The Power of the Holy Spirit The transformation of Saul through the Holy Spirit is a testament to the power of God working within us. When the Spirit of the Lord comes upon Saul, he is changed into a different person, illustrating how the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill God's will. This is a reminder that we are not alone in our journey; the Holy Spirit is our guide and strength. "The Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you" (1 Samuel 10:6) is a promise of divine empowerment available to all believers. 3. Signs of Confirmation God provides Saul with specific signs to confirm his calling, demonstrating that He is a God of order and assurance. These signs serve to strengthen Saul's faith and resolve. In our lives, God often provides confirmations of His will through circumstances, people, or Scripture. Be attentive to these signs, as they are God's way of guiding and affirming you. "When these signs have come, do as the occasion demands, for God is with you" (1 Samuel 10:7). 4. The Importance of Obedience Samuel instructs Saul to wait for him at Gilgal, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands. This lesson is crucial for us today; obedience to God is a demonstration of our faith and trust in Him. "You shall go down before me to Gilgal, and surely I will come down to you to offer burnt offerings" (1 Samuel 10:8). Obedience opens the door to God's blessings and guidance. 5. Humility in Leadership Despite being chosen as king, Saul initially hides among the baggage, displaying humility. This act reminds us that true leadership is rooted in humility and service, not in seeking power or recognition. "But when they looked for him, they could not find him" (1 Samuel 10:21). As leaders in our communities and families, we are called to serve others with humility, following the example of Christ. 6. God's Sovereignty in Choosing Leaders The selection of Saul as king underscores God's sovereignty in appointing leaders. It is a reminder that God is in control, and His choices are perfect, even when they may not align with human expectations. "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people" (1 Samuel 10:24). Trust in God's wisdom and His ability to raise up leaders according to His will. 7. The Role of Prophecy Prophecy plays a significant role in 1 Samuel 10, as it confirms Saul's calling and God's plan. Prophecy is a gift that reveals God's intentions and provides guidance. In our lives, we should seek to understand and apply the prophetic words found in Scripture, allowing them to direct our paths. "And all those who had known him formerly saw him prophesying with the prophets" (1 Samuel 10:11). 8. Community Support and Encouragement After Saul is anointed, the people shout, "Long live the king!" (1 Samuel 10:24), showing their support and encouragement. This highlights the importance of community in fulfilling God's purposes. We are called to support and uplift one another, recognizing that we are stronger together. Encourage those around you in their God-given roles and missions. 9. The Reality of Opposition Even as Saul is chosen, there are those who doubt and oppose him. This serves as a reminder that following God's call may not always be met with universal approval. "But some worthless men said, 'How can this man save us?' So they despised him and brought him no gifts" (1 Samuel 10:27). Stand firm in your faith, knowing that God is with you, even in the face of opposition. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Throughout 1 Samuel 10, we see the assurance of God's presence with Saul. This is a comforting reminder that God is always with us, guiding and supporting us in our journey. "God is with you" (1 Samuel 10:7) is a promise that we can hold onto, knowing that we are never alone. Embrace this assurance and walk confidently in the path God has set before you. Topics 1. Anointing of Saul as King Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel. This act is significant as it marks the transition from the period of judges to the monarchy in Israel. The Hebrew word for "anoint" is מָשַׁח (mashach), which is the root for "Messiah," indicating a divinely appointed leader. ^“Then Samuel took a flask of oil, poured it on Saul’s head, kissed him, and said, ‘Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?’”^ (1 Samuel 10:1). 2. Signs Confirming Saul’s Kingship Samuel provides Saul with specific signs that will confirm his anointing and calling as king. These signs serve to reassure Saul of God's choice and presence. ^“When you leave me today, you will find two men at Rachel’s tomb in Zelzah on the border of Benjamin. They will say to you, ‘The donkeys you set out to look for have been found, and now your father has stopped thinking about them and is worried about you. He is asking, “What should I do about my son?”’”^ (1 Samuel 10:2). 3. Saul’s Transformation by the Spirit The Spirit of the LORD comes powerfully upon Saul, transforming him and equipping him for his role as king. The Hebrew word for "Spirit" is רוּחַ (ruach), which can mean breath, wind, or spirit, indicating a divine empowerment. ^“The Spirit of the LORD will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.”^ (1 Samuel 10:6). 4. Saul’s Public Selection as King Saul is publicly chosen by lot to be king before the people of Israel, affirming God's choice in a visible manner. This event underscores the divine orchestration in Saul's selection. ^“Then Samuel brought all the tribes of Israel near, and the tribe of Benjamin was chosen.”^ (1 Samuel 10:20). 5. Saul’s Humility and Reluctance Despite being chosen, Saul initially hides among the baggage, displaying humility or reluctance to assume the kingship. This moment highlights his initial hesitance and the weight of leadership. ^“So they inquired further of the LORD, ‘Has the man come here yet?’ And the LORD replied, ‘He has hidden himself among the baggage.’”^ (1 Samuel 10:22). 6. The People’s Acceptance of Saul After Saul is presented to the people, they accept him as king, shouting their approval. This acceptance is crucial for the unity and stability of the new monarchy. ^“Then the people shouted, ‘Long live the king!’”^ (1 Samuel 10:24). 7. Samuel’s Explanation of Kingship Samuel explains the rights and duties of kingship to the people, setting the framework for Saul’s reign and the expectations of a king in Israel. ^“Samuel explained to the people the rights and duties of kingship. He wrote them on a scroll and laid it up before the LORD.”^ (1 Samuel 10:25). 8. Division Among the People There is a division among the people regarding Saul’s kingship, with some questioning his ability to lead. This division foreshadows future challenges in Saul’s reign. ^“But some worthless men said, ‘How can this man save us?’ So they despised him and brought him no gifts. But Saul remained silent.”^ (1 Samuel 10:27). Themes 1. Divine Appointment and Anointing In 1 Samuel 10, the theme of divine appointment is evident as Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel. This act signifies God's choice and empowerment for leadership. The Hebrew word for "anoint" is מָשַׁח (mashach), which indicates a consecration for a specific purpose. The anointing with oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit's presence and empowerment for the task ahead. 2. Prophetic Confirmation The chapter highlights the theme of prophetic confirmation through signs given to Saul. Samuel provides specific predictions that will confirm God's calling on Saul's life. This theme underscores the importance of prophecy in affirming God's will. The fulfillment of these signs serves to strengthen Saul's faith and the people's recognition of his divine appointment. 3. Transformation by the Spirit A significant theme is the transformation brought about by the Spirit of God. In 1 Samuel 10:6, it states, "The Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person." The Hebrew word for "rush" is צָלַח (tsalach), indicating a powerful and overwhelming influence of the Spirit, leading to a change in Saul's character and abilities. 4. Public Recognition and Acceptance The theme of public recognition is evident as Saul is presented to the people as king. In 1 Samuel 10:24, Samuel declares, "Do you see the one the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people." This public acknowledgment is crucial for Saul's acceptance as king, highlighting the need for communal recognition of God's chosen leader. 5. Human Reluctance and Divine Assurance Saul's initial reluctance to embrace his role as king is another theme. Despite being chosen by God, Saul hides among the baggage (1 Samuel 10:22). This reluctance is met with divine assurance, as God confirms Saul's selection through the casting of lots. This theme reflects the tension between human insecurity and God's sovereign assurance. 6. Unity and Division Among the People The chapter also presents the theme of unity and division. While many accept Saul as king, some dissenters question his ability to lead (1 Samuel 10:27). This division among the people highlights the challenges of leadership and the need for unity under God's chosen authority. The Hebrew term בְּלִיַּעַל (belial), used to describe the dissenters, implies worthlessness or rebellion against God's order. Prayer Points Pray for clarity and confirmation of God's calling in your life. Ask for the Holy Spirit's empowerment to fulfill your God-given purpose. Seek a humble heart that is willing to serve and lead according to God's will. Pray for the support and affirmation of your faith community in your spiritual journey. As we reflect on 1 Samuel 10, may we be inspired to embrace God's calling with confidence, relying on His Spirit and walking in humility. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the dramatic shift in Saul’s demeanor in 1 Samuel 10:6 be explained scientifically or psychologically? 2. Does the lack of archaeological evidence for Saul’s anointing in 1 Samuel 10:1 cast doubt on its historical reliability? 3. Why does the “Spirit of God” in 1 Samuel 10:10 produce such immediate prophetic activity in Saul, yet seemingly not in others? 4. How do the signs given to Saul in 1 Samuel 10:2–7 align or conflict with other biblical accounts of miraculous signs? 5. If God can change Saul’s heart instantly in 1 Samuel 10:9, why doesn’t this method apply universally to eliminate evil or unbelief? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Samuel's anointment of Saul reveal about the significance of divine selection and anointment in leadership? 2. How do the series of prophesied events that unfold in Saul's life demonstrate God's sovereignty? 3. How does Saul's initial reaction to his anointment reflect human tendencies towards unexpected responsibilities? 4. Why do you think Saul chose to keep his anointment a secret from his uncle? 5. How do the reactions of the Israelites to their new king reflect the varied responses we often see in society towards new leadership? 6. What are some of the challenges Saul may have faced as the first king of Israel and how might these relate to challenges faced by leaders today? 7. How does the selection of Saul, an unlikely candidate, reflect on the concept of God choosing the "foolish things of the world to shame the wise" (1 Corinthians 1:27)? 8. How can you apply the lesson of Saul's transformation by the Spirit of God in your personal or professional life? 9. In what ways does this chapter emphasize the importance of prophecy in the narrative of the Bible? 10. How does the story of Saul challenge our own ideas of worthiness and qualification for roles we're called to? 11. Compare and contrast the public and private call of Saul. How do they each contribute to Saul's understanding of his new role? 12. How does the narrative of 1 Samuel 10 apply to present-day leadership, especially in religious contexts? 13. How does Saul's humility play a role in his acceptance as a leader, and how can this be applied in today's society? 14. In what ways can you identify with Saul's fear and uncertainty upon being called to a new role? 15. How do you handle situations where you're called to step up to an unfamiliar role? 16. How do you respond when you see God working in ways you don’t expect, like in the case of Saul's anointment? 17. How does God's choice of Saul, despite his seeming inadequacy, inspire you in your personal walk with God? 18. What does the chapter teach about the role of divine and human acceptance in leadership? 19. How can we ensure that we are open to God's calling, just like Saul was? 20. How does Saul's story impact your understanding of God's providence and plans for your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions