1 Samuel 28:13

"Do not be afraid," the king replied. "What do you see?" "I see a god coming up out of the earth," the woman answered.

Study Bible

“Do not be afraid,” the king replied.
In this passage, the king is Saul, who has sought the counsel of a medium at Endor. Saul's reassurance to the woman reflects his desperation and fear, as he has been rejected by God and is seeking guidance through forbidden means. The phrase "Do not be afraid" is often used in Scripture to calm those who are encountering the divine or supernatural (e.g., Luke 1:30, Matthew 28:5). Here, it is ironic because Saul is encouraging the woman not to fear, while he himself is in a state of fear and disobedience.

“What do you see?”
Saul's question indicates his reliance on the medium to communicate with the spiritual realm, as he cannot see the apparition himself. This reflects the biblical prohibition against necromancy and divination (Deuteronomy 18:10-12), highlighting Saul's disobedience to God's commands. The question also underscores Saul's spiritual blindness and desperation, contrasting with the clarity of vision that comes from faithfulness to God.

“I see a god coming up out of the earth,” the woman answered.
The term "god" here is translated from the Hebrew word "elohim," which can mean "god," "gods," or "spiritual being." The woman's description suggests a supernatural appearance, which she interprets as a divine or ghostly figure. This reflects the ancient Near Eastern belief in spirits and the afterlife, where the dead were often thought to reside in the underworld. The phrase "coming up out of the earth" indicates the belief that spirits could ascend from Sheol, the realm of the dead. This event is unique in Scripture, as it involves the appearance of the prophet Samuel after his death, highlighting the gravity of Saul's situation and the consequences of his disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is seeking guidance from a medium at Endor after God has stopped answering him through prophets or dreams.

2. The Medium at Endor
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in desperation, despite having previously banned such practices in Israel.

3. Samuel
The prophet who had died and is summoned by the medium at Saul's request. His appearance is a pivotal moment in this account.

4. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where the medium resides. It becomes the setting for this encounter between Saul and the spirit of Samuel.

5. The Spirit
Referred to as "a god" by the medium, this spirit is understood to be the prophet Samuel, who delivers a message to Saul.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's decision to consult a medium, despite knowing God's commandments, illustrates the severe consequences of disobedience and lack of faith.

Seeking God in Desperation
In times of desperation, we must seek God through prayer and His Word, rather than turning to forbidden or ungodly practices.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
This passage reminds us of the reality of spiritual forces and the importance of adhering to God's guidance in spiritual matters.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial, even when His presence seems distant. Trusting in His timing and methods is essential.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Saul's fear led him to make poor decisions. We must guard against allowing fear to drive us away from God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state and relationship with God?

2. How does this passage challenge us to consider the sources we turn to for guidance and wisdom in our own lives?

3. In what ways can we ensure that fear does not lead us away from God's commands and into disobedience?

4. How does the prohibition against necromancy in the Old Testament apply to modern-day practices and beliefs?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How can this passage encourage you to seek Him faithfully, even in silence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, highlighting the sinfulness of Saul's actions.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses explicitly prohibit necromancy and other occult practices, reinforcing the gravity of Saul's disobedience.

1 Chronicles 10:13-14
This passage reflects on Saul's death, attributing it to his unfaithfulness and his consultation with a medium.