Saul: The Unlikely King of Israel

1 Samuel 10 highlights the divine orchestration in the appointment of leaders. It is a potent reminder of how God can choose, transform, and equip even the most unexpected individuals for His purposes. Saul, despite his apprehensions, was divinely transformed and appointed for leadership. The chapter calls believers to trust in God's plan and to be open to His transformative work.

Verses 1-8: Samuel Anoints Saul

Samuel takes a flask of oil, pouring it on Saul's head, signifying his anointment as king. He prophecies Saul will meet men near Rachel's tomb, by the oak of Tabor, and at Gibeah, and they will provide him with specific signs of his new kingship.

Verses 9-13: Saul's Prophetic Encounter

Just as Samuel prophesied, Saul has a powerful spiritual encounter. The Spirit of God descends upon him, and he prophesies with a group of prophets, signifying the divine transformation in his life.

Verses 14-16: Saul’s Secrecy

Saul’s uncle inquires about his whereabouts, but Saul only partially discloses the events, concealing his anointment as king, demonstrating his humility and perhaps, uncertainty.

Verses 17-27: Saul Publicly Chosen as King

Samuel gathers the people at Mizpah, casting lots to publicly select the king. The lot falls to Saul, who is found hiding among the baggage. Despite some skepticism from a few, the people rejoice over their new king, and Saul, now accepted as a leader, returns to Gibeah, accompanied by a group of courageous men.

1 Samuel 10 of the Berean Standard Bible is a riveting chapter in the narrative of the Israelites. The chapter features the anointment and appointment of Saul as the first king of Israel, a momentous event in Israel's history. The unlikely choice, Saul's transformation into a leader, and the people's reaction to their new king form the crux of this chapter.

1. Prophecy and Fulfillment
2. Divine Anointment
3. Leadership
4. God's Providence
5. Fear and Uncertainty
6. Transformation
7. National Unity1. Anointment of Saul as King
2. Prophecies of Samuel
3. Saul's Prophetic Encounter
4. The Selection of a King
5. Saul's Hesitation and Humility1. Saul
2. Samuel
3. The Servant of Saul
4. People of Israel1. Ramah
2. Rachel’s tomb
3. Bethel
4. Gibeah

1. What does Samuel's anointment of Saul reveal about the significance of divine selection and anointment in leadership?

2. How do the series of prophesied events that unfold in Saul's life demonstrate God's sovereignty?

3. How does Saul's initial reaction to his anointment reflect human tendencies towards unexpected responsibilities?

4. Why do you think Saul chose to keep his anointment a secret from his uncle?

5. How do the reactions of the Israelites to their new king reflect the varied responses we often see in society towards new leadership?

6. What are some of the challenges Saul may have faced as the first king of Israel and how might these relate to challenges faced by leaders today?

7. How does the selection of Saul, an unlikely candidate, reflect on the concept of God choosing the "foolish things of the world to shame the wise" (1 Corinthians 1:27)?

8. How can you apply the lesson of Saul's transformation by the Spirit of God in your personal or professional life?

9. In what ways does this chapter emphasize the importance of prophecy in the narrative of the Bible?

10. How does the story of Saul challenge our own ideas of worthiness and qualification for roles we're called to?

11. Compare and contrast the public and private call of Saul. How do they each contribute to Saul's understanding of his new role?

12. How does the narrative of 1 Samuel 10 apply to present-day leadership, especially in religious contexts?

13. How does Saul's humility play a role in his acceptance as a leader, and how can this be applied in today's society?

14. In what ways can you identify with Saul's fear and uncertainty upon being called to a new role?

15. How do you handle situations where you're called to step up to an unfamiliar role?

16. How do you respond when you see God working in ways you don’t expect, like in the case of Saul's anointment?

17. How does God's choice of Saul, despite his seeming inadequacy, inspire you in your personal walk with God?

18. What does the chapter teach about the role of divine and human acceptance in leadership?

19. How can we ensure that we are open to God's calling, just like Saul was?

20. How does Saul's story impact your understanding of God's providence and plans for your life?