Reign: c. 1050–1010 BC
Scripture Focus: 1 Samuel 8–31
The people of Israel stood at a crossroads. God had been their King, guiding them through prophets and judges, but now they wanted what the surrounding nations had: a monarch they could see, follow, and rally behind. This wasn’t simply a request for leadership—it was a rejection of God’s rule (1 Samuel 8:7).
They wanted someone who looked the part. So God gave them Saul.
Tall, striking, and from the tribe of Benjamin, Saul looked like a king by every human standard. He started well—anointed by Samuel, chosen by lot, and filled with the Spirit of God. In those early days, he displayed humility, even hiding among the baggage when his name was called (1 Samuel 10:22). There was promise in him. Potential. Hope.
But Saul’s reign shows how quickly fear, insecurity, and disobedience can unravel even the most promising beginnings.
Key Events in Saul’s Reign
- Anointed by Samuel (1 Samuel 10): God chose Saul and empowered him through the Spirit.
- Initial Victories (1 Samuel 11): Saul led Israel to military success against the Ammonites.
- Unlawful Sacrifice (1 Samuel 13): Out of fear and impatience, Saul offered sacrifices meant for the priest.
- Foolish Vows and Rash Leadership (1 Samuel 14): Saul’s impulsive oath endangered his army and nearly cost Jonathan his life.
- Partial Obedience (1 Samuel 15): Saul spared King Agag and the best livestock when God had commanded complete destruction. This became his turning point.
- Rejected by God (1 Samuel 15:26): Samuel tells Saul that God has torn the kingdom away from him.
- Tormented and Jealous (1 Samuel 16–19): As David rises, Saul is consumed by jealousy and paranoia.
- Saul’s Downfall (1 Samuel 31): After consulting a medium and losing to the Philistines, Saul falls on his sword, ending his tragic reign.
Themes to Reflect On
- Obedience vs. Appearance: Saul looked like a king but failed to have a king’s heart before God. Outward appearance never substitutes for inner obedience.
- Fear of Man vs. Fear of God: Saul’s decisions were consistently shaped by what people thought of him. His need for approval overtook his call to faithfulness.
- Partial Obedience is Disobedience: Saul did some of what God said—but kept what pleased him. In God’s eyes, half-hearted obedience is still rebellion.
What We Learn from Saul
- A good start doesn’t guarantee a faithful finish.
- God values obedience more than offerings, rituals, or reputation.
- Leadership not grounded in humility and surrender will eventually crack.
- Spiritual authority cannot be sustained without spiritual submission.
How This Points to Jesus
Saul was the king the people chose. Jesus is the King God gave.
- Saul grasped for control; Jesus surrendered to the Father.
- Saul disobeyed for fear of people; Jesus obeyed even unto death.
- Saul hid among baggage; Jesus carried the cross.
- Saul took matters into his own hands; Jesus entrusted all into the Father’s hands.
Where Saul fell short, Jesus fulfilled. He is the Servant King, the one whose heart is always aligned with God’s will.
Discussion or Reflection Questions:
- In what ways am I tempted to prioritize appearance or approval over obedience?
- Have I ever started well in something God called me to but failed to finish faithfully? What got in the way?
- What can I learn from Saul’s downfall that could protect my own heart and leadership?
- Where do I need to surrender full obedience, not just partial agreement?
Coming next: David – A King After God’s Own Heart
#MeetTheKings #KingSaul #TruthInBloom #LeadershipLessons #FaithfulOrFallen
Here is a sample of the study guide to go with your study on the kings. For a full Study Guide of Meet the Kings go to the Resources page.
Truth in Bloom 