1 Samuel 11:6

When Saul heard their words, the Spirit of God rushed upon him, and he burned with great anger.

Study Bible

When Saul heard their words
This phrase refers to the report brought to Saul about the plight of the people of Jabesh-gilead, who were threatened by Nahash the Ammonite. The context is significant as it highlights the early days of Saul's reign as king of Israel. The people of Jabesh-gilead were in a desperate situation, and their plea for help reached Saul, who was still in the process of establishing his authority. This moment is pivotal as it demonstrates Saul's initial response to his kingly duties and the expectations of leadership in ancient Israel.

the Spirit of God rushed upon him
The phrase indicates a divine empowerment that Saul received, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament when God equips individuals for specific tasks. This rushing of the Spirit signifies God's direct intervention and approval of Saul's actions. It parallels other instances in the Bible, such as the Spirit coming upon Samson (Judges 14:6) and David (1 Samuel 16:13), indicating a special anointing for leadership and deliverance. This divine empowerment is crucial for understanding the theocratic nature of Israel's monarchy, where the king was expected to act as God's representative.

and he burned with great anger
Saul's anger is described as a righteous indignation, fueled by the Spirit of God. This anger is not merely human emotion but a reflection of God's own displeasure with the oppression of His people. It is reminiscent of the anger of Moses when he saw the Israelites worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32:19) and Jesus' anger in the temple (Mark 11:15-17). This righteous anger propels Saul into action, marking a decisive moment in his leadership. It underscores the biblical principle that anger, when aligned with God's purposes, can lead to justice and deliverance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. At this point in the account, Saul is still early in his reign and is being established as a leader.

2. Spirit of God
Refers to the divine presence and power that comes upon individuals in the Old Testament, enabling them to perform acts of leadership, prophecy, or deliverance.

3. Jabesh-gilead
A city in Israel that was under threat from the Ammonites, prompting Saul's response.

4. Ammonites
A neighboring nation that was often in conflict with Israel. Their threat against Jabesh-gilead sets the stage for Saul's leadership.

5. Anger
Saul's response to the threat against Jabesh-gilead, which is described as being fueled by the Spirit of God, indicating a righteous indignation.

Teaching Points

Empowerment by the Spirit
The Spirit of God empowers believers for specific tasks and challenges. Just as Saul was empowered to lead and protect Israel, we too can rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance in our own lives.

Righteous Anger
Anger, when aligned with God's purposes, can be a catalyst for action. Saul's anger was not personal but was directed towards injustice and the threat against God's people. We should evaluate our anger to ensure it aligns with God's righteousness.

Leadership and Responsibility
Saul's response to the crisis demonstrates the responsibility of leaders to act decisively and courageously. In our own spheres of influence, we are called to lead with integrity and boldness.

Divine Intervention
The account highlights God's active role in the affairs of His people. We can trust that God is involved in our lives and will intervene according to His will and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the empowerment of the Spirit in 1 Samuel 11:6 compare to other instances in the Old Testament where the Spirit comes upon individuals? What can we learn from these comparisons?

2. In what ways can we discern whether our anger is righteous and aligned with God's purposes, as Saul's was in this passage?

3. How does Saul's leadership in this chapter challenge or inspire you in your own roles of leadership or responsibility?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish a task. How did that experience shape your understanding of God's presence in your life?

5. How can we, as a community of believers, support one another in recognizing and responding to the Spirit's leading in our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 3:10
The Spirit of the Lord coming upon Othniel, empowering him to judge Israel and lead them to victory, similar to how the Spirit empowers Saul.

Judges 6:34
The Spirit of the Lord coming upon Gideon, enabling him to lead Israel against the Midianites, paralleling Saul's empowerment.

Acts 2:4
The Holy Spirit coming upon the apostles at Pentecost, empowering them for ministry, showing continuity in the Spirit's empowering work.