1 Samuel 10:12

Then a man who lived there replied, "And who is their father?" So the saying became a proverb: "Is Saul also among the prophets?"

Study Bible

Then a man who lived there replied
This phrase indicates a local resident's response to the events unfolding. The setting is Gibeah, Saul's hometown, where people would have been familiar with his previous life and character. The man's question reflects the surprise and skepticism of the community, as Saul was not known for prophetic activity. This highlights the unexpected nature of God's calling and the transformation that can occur when God chooses someone for His purposes.

“And who is their father?”
This rhetorical question suggests doubt about the legitimacy or origin of the prophetic group Saul was seen with. In ancient Israel, lineage and family background were significant, often determining one's social and religious roles. The question implies skepticism about the authority or authenticity of the prophets, and by extension, Saul's sudden inclusion among them. It underscores the theme that God's choices often defy human expectations and societal norms.

So the saying became a proverb
The transformation of this event into a proverb indicates its widespread impact and the lasting impression it made on the people. Proverbs in biblical times were used to convey wisdom or express common experiences. This particular saying captures the astonishment and irony of Saul, a man not previously associated with spiritual leadership, being counted among the prophets. It serves as a reminder of God's unpredictable ways and the potential for change in anyone's life.

“Is Saul also among the prophets?”
This phrase became a proverbial expression of surprise and disbelief. Saul's unexpected prophetic behavior was so remarkable that it became a cultural reference point. Theologically, it illustrates the theme of divine empowerment, where God equips individuals for His purposes regardless of their past. This event foreshadows Saul's complex relationship with God and his eventual failure to fully embrace his divine calling. It also prefigures the New Testament concept of transformation through the Holy Spirit, as seen in the lives of the apostles and early Christians.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, chosen by God and anointed by the prophet Samuel. At this point in the account, Saul is experiencing a transformation that leads others to question his newfound prophetic behavior.

2. Prophets
A group of individuals who were known for their spiritual insight and connection to God. Saul's unexpected prophesying among them raises questions about his identity and role.

3. Gibeah
The location where this event takes place. It is Saul's hometown and becomes a significant place in his account.

4. Samuel
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Samuel is the prophet who anointed Saul and plays a crucial role in his rise to kingship.

5. The Man Who Lived There
An unnamed individual who questions Saul's prophetic behavior, highlighting the surprise and skepticism of the people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Choosing Leaders
God often chooses unlikely individuals to fulfill His purposes, as seen in Saul's unexpected prophetic behavior. This reminds us that God's criteria differ from human expectations.

Transformation Through the Spirit
Saul's experience among the prophets illustrates the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Believers today can also experience transformation through the Spirit's work in their lives.

Questioning and Skepticism
The reaction of the people to Saul's prophesying shows that God's work can sometimes be met with skepticism. As Christians, we should be open to God's unexpected actions and remain discerning.

Identity and Calling
Saul's account encourages us to reflect on our identity and calling in Christ. Just as Saul was called to a new role, we too are called to live out our God-given purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's transformation challenge our understanding of who can be used by God for His purposes?

2. In what ways can we be open to the unexpected work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and communities?

3. How does the skepticism of the people in 1 Samuel 10:12 relate to the challenges we face when sharing our faith with others?

4. What parallels can we draw between Saul's experience and the transformation of Saul (Paul) in the New Testament?

5. How can we discern our own calling and identity in Christ, and what steps can we take to live it out faithfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 9:21
Saul's humble beginnings and his initial reluctance to accept his calling as king, which contrasts with his later prophetic behavior.

Acts 9:20-21
The transformation of Saul (Paul) in the New Testament, where he goes from persecutor to preacher, drawing a parallel to the unexpected change in Saul's behavior in 1 Samuel.

Numbers 11:26-29
The account of Eldad and Medad prophesying in the camp, where Moses expresses a desire for all of God's people to be prophets, reflecting the unexpected nature of God's calling.