1 Samuel 28:20

Immediately Saul fell flat on the ground, terrified by the words of Samuel. And his strength was gone, because he had not eaten anything all that day and night.

Study Bible

Immediately Saul fell flat on the ground
This phrase captures the urgency and immediacy of Saul's reaction. Saul's physical collapse reflects his spiritual and emotional state. In biblical context, falling to the ground often signifies despair or submission (e.g., Joshua 7:6). Saul's fall can be seen as a culmination of his disobedience to God, as he had previously been rejected as king (1 Samuel 15:26-28).

terrified by the words of Samuel
Saul's terror is rooted in the prophecy of his impending defeat and death, as relayed by the spirit of Samuel. This encounter with Samuel, who had been a prophet and judge over Israel, underscores the gravity of Saul's situation. The fear Saul experiences is reminiscent of the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10), yet Saul's fear is devoid of hope due to his estrangement from God.

And his strength was gone
Saul's physical weakness mirrors his spiritual depletion. Throughout his reign, Saul's reliance on his own strength rather than God's guidance led to his downfall. This moment highlights the consequences of a life lived apart from divine support, as seen in other biblical figures who faltered when they strayed from God (e.g., Samson in Judges 16:20).

because he had not eaten anything all that day and night
Saul's fasting, whether intentional or due to distress, leaves him physically vulnerable. In biblical times, fasting was often associated with mourning or seeking divine intervention (e.g., Esther 4:16). However, Saul's fast lacks the spiritual focus seen in other scriptural examples, further emphasizing his isolation from God. This detail also foreshadows the physical and spiritual exhaustion that leads to his ultimate demise in battle.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation and fear after hearing Samuel's prophecy of his impending defeat and death.

2. Samuel
The prophet who, though deceased, is brought up by the medium at Endor to deliver a message from God to Saul.

3. Endor
The location where Saul seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of Samuel, despite having previously banned such practices.

4. The Medium
A woman at Endor who practices necromancy, which Saul had outlawed, yet he seeks her out in his desperation.

5. Philistines
The enemy nation that Saul is preparing to fight, whose impending battle leads him to seek guidance through forbidden means.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's fear and weakness are direct results of his disobedience to God. Disobedience leads to spiritual and physical downfall.

The Dangers of Desperation
In his desperation, Saul turns to forbidden practices. Desperation can lead us away from God if we do not remain grounded in faith.

The Importance of Spiritual Nourishment
Saul's physical weakness mirrors his spiritual state. Regular spiritual nourishment through prayer and scripture is essential.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can paralyze and lead to poor decisions. Trust in God should guide our actions, not fear.

The Finality of God's Word
Samuel's message to Saul was final and unchangeable, reminding us of the authority and finality of God's word.

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 times of distress?

2. In what ways does Saul's fear contrast with the faith demonstrated by other biblical figures, such as David or Daniel?

3. How can we ensure that we are spiritually nourished and not just physically sustained, especially in challenging times?

4. What are some modern-day "forbidden practices" that Christians might be tempted to turn to, and how can we guard against them?

5. How does understanding the finality and authority of God's word impact our daily decision-making and trust in His plans?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
This passage condemns practices like necromancy, which Saul resorts to, highlighting his disobedience to God's commands.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's earlier rebuke of Saul for disobedience, emphasizing that obedience is better than sacrifice, foreshadowing Saul's downfall.

Psalm 23:4
Contrasts Saul's fear with the trust in God that David expresses, even in the face of death.

Matthew 4:4
Jesus' reliance on God's word rather than physical sustenance, contrasting Saul's physical and spiritual weakness.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists the acts of the flesh, including witchcraft, which Saul engages in, showing the spiritual consequences of such actions.