Holy War, Divine “Repentance,” and the Unraveling of Saul The end of Chapter 14 and start of 15. Major side-track issue of Holy War, Herem warfare. How do we understand this from a Christian perspective? 6 specific thoughts are detailed. God says he “repents” from making Saul King. Discussion of what that means. Laying the … Continued

The Cracks in the Crown: Saul’s Disobedience and the Beginning of His Downfall In 1 Samuel 13–14, Saul’s impatience and partial obedience begin to unravel his kingship. As pressure mounts from the Philistines, Saul oversteps his role, while Jonathan demonstrates bold faith in the Lord. These chapters reveal the contrast between fear and trust, authority … Continued

Victory, Warning, and the Coming Test: Israel’s Deliverance and the Gathering Storm Chapter 11 through 13:7. Background on Ammonites and Philistines, the defeat of Na’hash the Ammonite, Samuel’s long speech to the people, the call of the Lord to come back to Him even when we fail, the Good News that the Lord is making … Continued

From Farm to Throne: Saul’s Anointing and the Politics of a New King 1 Samuel 9 & 10 Saul, a Benjaminite, is chosen and has a private anointing with Samuel. Discussion on the politics of the tribes, anointing, oil, Saul’s character, Saul’s experience with the Holy Spirit, and his return to the farm. Lot’s of … Continued

From Renewal to Rejection: Israel Turns Back to God—Then Demands a King Chapters 7 and 8, the renewal of all Israel as they turn back to Yahweh and then, against all advice, clamor for a king! Great character study of Samuel and a look into what happened to the Tabernacle at Shiloh as well as … Continued