1 Samuel 28:19

Moreover, the LORD will deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines, and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me. And the LORD will deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines."

Study Bible

Moreover, the LORD will deliver Israel with you into the hand of the Philistines
This phrase indicates a divine judgment pronounced upon Israel and King Saul. The Philistines were a constant threat to Israel during this period, often engaging in battles with them. The phrase suggests that God has withdrawn His protection from Israel due to Saul's disobedience and rejection of God's commands, as seen earlier in 1 Samuel 15. The Philistines, known for their military prowess and iron weaponry, were formidable adversaries. This judgment reflects the consequences of Saul's failure to fully obey God, as seen in his incomplete destruction of the Amalekites and his unlawful sacrifice.

and tomorrow you and your sons will be with me
This prophecy foretells the imminent death of Saul and his sons, including Jonathan, who was a close friend of David. The phrase "with me" is spoken by the spirit of Samuel, indicating that Saul and his sons will join him in the realm of the dead. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of Sheol, the abode of the dead, where both the righteous and unrighteous reside. The mention of "tomorrow" underscores the immediacy of the prophecy, highlighting the urgency and certainty of God's judgment. This also serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's guidance.

And the LORD will deliver the army of Israel into the hand of the Philistines
This reiterates the earlier part of the prophecy, emphasizing the totality of Israel's defeat. The army of Israel, once victorious under leaders like Joshua and Gideon, will now face defeat due to the nation's and its king's disobedience. This serves as a fulfillment of the warnings given in Deuteronomy 28 about the consequences of disobedience to God's covenant. The defeat also sets the stage for David's eventual rise to kingship, as Saul's downfall clears the way for God's chosen leader to ascend. This transition is part of God's sovereign plan, demonstrating His control over the nations and His faithfulness to His promises, despite human failure.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is seeking guidance from the prophet Samuel through a medium, as God has stopped answering him.

2. Samuel
The deceased prophet who is summoned by the medium at Endor to deliver a message to Saul.

3. Philistines
The enemies of Israel, who are preparing to battle against Saul and his army.

4. Endor
The location where Saul visits a medium to summon the spirit of Samuel.

5. Jonathan and Saul's Sons
Saul's sons, including Jonathan, who are prophesied to die in the upcoming battle.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's life is a cautionary tale of how disobedience to God leads to dire consequences. His failure to follow God's commands results in the loss of his kingdom and his life.

Seeking God in Times of Trouble
Instead of turning to forbidden practices, believers are encouraged to seek God through prayer and His Word, trusting in His guidance and timing.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
The battle against the Philistines is a reminder of the spiritual battles believers face. We must rely on God's strength and not our own understanding or forbidden practices.

The Importance of Faithful Leadership
Saul's failure as a leader underscores the need for leaders to be faithful and obedient to God, setting an example for others to follow.

The Certainty of God's Word
Samuel's prophecy to Saul demonstrates the certainty and reliability of God's Word. Believers can trust that God's promises and warnings will come to pass.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's decision to consult a medium reflect his spiritual state, and what can we learn from this about seeking guidance in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Saul's account illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God, and how can we apply this lesson to our daily walk with Christ?

3. How can we ensure that we are seeking God's guidance in times of trouble rather than turning to worldly or forbidden solutions?

4. What does this passage teach us about the importance of faithful leadership, and how can we apply these principles in our roles within the church and community?

5. How does the certainty of God's Word, as seen in Samuel's prophecy, encourage us to trust in God's promises and warnings today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 15
This chapter details Saul's disobedience to God's command, which leads to his rejection as king. It sets the stage for the events of 1 Samuel 28, where Saul's desperation is evident.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
These verses condemn the practice of necromancy and seeking mediums, highlighting Saul's disobedience in consulting the medium at Endor.

1 Chronicles 10:13-14
This passage reflects on Saul's death and attributes it to his unfaithfulness and his consultation with a medium, reinforcing the consequences of his actions.