The opposition to Saul's kingship is a significant theme in the biblical narrative, highlighting the complexities and challenges of his reign as the first king of Israel. Saul, anointed by the prophet Samuel, initially enjoyed the support of the people and the favor of God. However, his reign was marked by a series of events that led to growing opposition and ultimately his downfall.

Anointing and Initial Acceptance

Saul's anointing as king is recorded in 1 Samuel 10:1, where Samuel pours oil on Saul's head and declares, "Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?" . Initially, Saul is accepted by the people, as seen in 1 Samuel 10:24, where Samuel presents Saul to the people, and they shout, "Long live the king!" . Despite this initial acceptance, there were immediate signs of dissent. In 1 Samuel 10:27, some "worthless men" questioned Saul's ability to save them and "despised him and brought him no gifts" .

Early Challenges and Victories

Saul's early reign included military victories that solidified his position, such as the defeat of the Ammonites in 1 Samuel 11. This victory temporarily quelled opposition, as the people reaffirmed Saul's kingship at Gilgal (1 Samuel 11:14-15). However, Saul's failure to fully obey God's commands, particularly in the battle against the Amalekites, led to divine disfavor. In 1 Samuel 15:22-23, Samuel rebukes Saul, stating, "Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king" .

David's Rise and Saul's Jealousy

The emergence of David as a favored leader further fueled opposition to Saul's kingship. David's victory over Goliath and his subsequent successes in battle earned him the admiration of the people, as they sang, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands" (1 Samuel 18:7). Saul's jealousy and fear of David's growing popularity led to a series of attempts on David's life, as recorded in 1 Samuel 18-19.

Internal Strife and Division

Saul's reign was also marked by internal strife and division within his own household and among his closest allies. His son Jonathan's friendship with David created tension, as Jonathan recognized David's future as king (1 Samuel 20:13-17). Additionally, Saul's erratic behavior and paranoia alienated many of his supporters, leading to further isolation.

The Role of the Prophets

The prophets, particularly Samuel, played a crucial role in the opposition to Saul's kingship. Samuel's rebuke and eventual withdrawal of support signified divine disapproval. In 1 Samuel 16:1, the LORD instructs Samuel to anoint David as the future king, indicating a shift in divine favor.

Saul's Final Days

The culmination of opposition to Saul's kingship is seen in his final days. The Philistine threat loomed large, and Saul's desperation led him to seek guidance from a medium at Endor, an act that further demonstrated his departure from God's will (1 Samuel 28:7-20). Saul's defeat and death in battle, as recorded in 1 Samuel 31, marked the end of his troubled reign and the beginning of David's ascent to the throne.

Throughout Saul's kingship, the opposition he faced was both external and internal, rooted in his disobedience to God, his personal failings, and the rise of David as a divinely chosen successor. These elements combined to create a narrative of a king who, despite his initial promise, ultimately fell from grace.