1 Chronicles 10:13

So Saul died for his unfaithfulness to the LORD, because he did not keep the word of the LORD and even consulted a medium for guidance,

Study Bible

So Saul died for his unfaithfulness to the LORD
Saul's death is attributed to his unfaithfulness, highlighting the importance of obedience to God. In the biblical narrative, Saul's reign began with promise but was marred by disobedience, such as his failure to completely destroy the Amalekites as commanded (1 Samuel 15). This disobedience is a recurring theme in his life, leading to his downfall. The concept of faithfulness is central in the Bible, with God desiring loyalty and obedience from His people (Deuteronomy 6:5). Saul's unfaithfulness serves as a warning and a lesson about the consequences of turning away from God's commands.

because he did not keep the word of the LORD
Saul's failure to keep God's word is a critical point. The "word of the LORD" refers to God's commands and instructions, which Saul repeatedly ignored. This phrase underscores the importance of adhering to divine instructions, as seen in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are outlined based on obedience or disobedience. Saul's disobedience is contrasted with the faithfulness of other biblical figures like David, who, despite his own failures, is described as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). Saul's inability to keep God's word ultimately led to his rejection as king (1 Samuel 15:23).

and even consulted a medium for guidance
Consulting a medium was explicitly forbidden in the Law of Moses (Leviticus 19:31, Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Saul's decision to seek guidance from a medium at Endor (1 Samuel 28) reflects his desperation and spiritual decline. This act of seeking forbidden spiritual guidance is a direct violation of God's commands and illustrates Saul's departure from reliance on God. The cultural context of the time shows that mediums and spiritists were common in ancient Near Eastern societies, but Israel was called to be distinct and separate from such practices. Saul's consultation with a medium is a stark example of his unfaithfulness and contributes to his tragic end.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. Saul's reign was marked by initial success but ultimately ended in failure due to his disobedience to God.

2. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who established Israel and gave them laws and guidance through His prophets.

3. Medium
A person who claims to communicate with the dead or with spirits. Saul's consultation with a medium was a direct violation of God's commandments.

4. Samuel
The prophet who anointed Saul as king and later rebuked him for his disobedience. Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Samuel's role is crucial in understanding Saul's downfall.

5. Mount Gilboa
The location where Saul and his sons died in battle against the Philistines, marking the end of his reign.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's life serves as a sobering reminder that disobedience to God's commands can lead to severe consequences, including the loss of divine favor and leadership.

The Danger of Seeking Guidance Outside of God
Consulting mediums or other sources for guidance, as Saul did, is a direct violation of God's commands and demonstrates a lack of trust in His sovereignty.

Faithfulness to God's Word
The importance of adhering to God's word is paramount. Saul's failure to keep God's word led to his downfall, emphasizing the need for obedience and faithfulness.

Repentance and Seeking God
Unlike Saul, who turned to a medium, believers are encouraged to seek God in times of trouble and to repent for any disobedience.

Leadership and Accountability
As a leader, Saul's actions had repercussions not only for himself but for the entire nation of Israel. This highlights the responsibility and accountability of those in leadership positions.

Bible Study Questions

1. What specific actions led to Saul's downfall, and how can we avoid similar pitfalls in our own lives?

2. How does Saul's consultation with a medium contrast with the biblical command to seek God alone for guidance?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are keeping the word of the LORD in our daily lives?

4. How does the account of Saul's disobedience and its consequences relate to the New Testament teachings on faithfulness and obedience?

5. What lessons can we learn from Saul's leadership that can be applied to our roles in our families, workplaces, and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
This chapter details Saul's disobedience in not fully destroying the Amalekites as God commanded, which led to his rejection as king.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly forbid the practice of divination and consulting mediums, highlighting the seriousness of Saul's sin.

1 Samuel 28
This chapter describes Saul's visit to the medium at Endor, providing context for his unfaithfulness mentioned in 1 Chronicles 10:13.