◄ 1 Samuel 28 ►
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Summary Saul and the Medium of Endor This chapter serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of disobedience and the desperation that can follow when one is estranged from God's guidance. It encourages us to remain faithful, seeking the Lord's counsel in times of uncertainty, rather than turning to forbidden and unreliable sources. Though in dire times, we may feel abandoned, our faith should remain steadfast in God's divine plan. Consulting the Witch (Verses 1-7): As the Philistines prepared for war against Israel, Saul, stricken by fear, sought guidance from God. When he received no answer, Saul resorted to seeking out a medium in Endor, intending to communicate with the deceased prophet Samuel. The Appearance of Samuel (Verses 8-15): Saul disguised himself and went to the witch at night. Despite initial fear because of Saul's edict against mediums, the witch agreed to bring up Samuel's spirit. Upon seeing Samuel, the witch cried out in fear, recognizing Saul. Samuel, appearing upset, asked why Saul disturbed him. Saul expressed his desperation due to the lack of God's guidance and the impending war. Samuel's Prophecy of Defeat (Verses 16-19): Samuel reminded Saul that he was already told that God had torn the kingdom away from him because of his disobedience. Samuel prophesied that Saul and his sons would be with him (in death) the next day and that the Israelites would be delivered into the hands of the Philistines. The Aftermath (Verses 20-25): Saul was stricken with fear and fell full length on the ground, weakened by the lack of food. Despite his initial refusal, the witch and his servants persuaded Saul to eat. The witch prepared a meal, and Saul and his servants ate and left that same night. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions