Introduction
Saul becomes king.
Questions
1. What was the significance of Samuel anointing Saul?
v 1 Then Samuel took the vial of oil and poured it on his head, then kissed him and said, “Hasn’t the LORD anointed you to be prince over his inheritance?
2. What did Samuel tell the people at Mizpah about why God was displeased with their request?
v 18 and 19 ... “The LORD, the God of Israel, says ‘I brought Israel up out of Egypt and I delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all the kingdoms that oppressed you.’ But you have today rejected your God, who himself saves you out of all your calamities and your distresses; and you have said to him, ‘No! Set a king over us!" ...
3. Why, physically speaking, was Saul the obvious choice for a king?
v 23 ... When he stood amongst the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward.
Summary Points
- v 1 to 8 Samuel anoints Saul to be king of Israel. Samuel gives Saul three signs to convince him that God has chosen him
- v 9 to 16 The predictions all prove to be accurate. Saul changes and those who know him are amazed when he prophesies
- v 17 to 27 Samuel gathers Israel to Mizpah, where he reminds them that they have rejected God. He then draws lots to select their king and Saul the son of Kish of the tribe of Benjamin is chosen to be king. However he is not universally accepted