1 Samuel 28:21

When the woman came to Saul and saw how distraught he was, she said to him, "Look, your maidservant has obeyed your voice. I took my life in my hands and did as you told me.

Study Bible

When the woman came to Saul and saw how distraught he was
The woman referred to here is the medium of Endor, whom Saul sought out in desperation. Saul's distress is significant, as it highlights his spiritual decline and separation from God. This moment occurs after God has stopped answering Saul through prophets or dreams, leading him to seek forbidden practices. The woman's recognition of Saul's distress underscores the gravity of his situation, as he is the king of Israel yet finds himself in a state of fear and helplessness. This reflects the consequences of disobedience to God, as Saul had previously banned mediums and spiritists from the land (1 Samuel 28:3).

she said to him, “Look, your maidservant has obeyed your voice.
The woman's reference to herself as Saul's "maidservant" indicates her submission and acknowledgment of his authority, despite the illicit nature of their encounter. Her obedience to Saul's request, despite the risk involved, highlights the desperation and fear that permeated the situation. This phrase also reflects the cultural norms of the time, where women often referred to themselves in subservient terms when addressing men, especially those in positions of power.

I took my life in my hands and did as you told me.
The phrase "I took my life in my hands" indicates the danger the woman faced in complying with Saul's request. Engaging in necromancy was punishable by death according to the Law of Moses (Leviticus 20:27), and Saul himself had enforced this law. Her willingness to risk her life suggests either a fear of Saul's authority or a belief in the seriousness of his plight. This act of risking one's life can be seen as a parallel to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who willingly laid down His life for humanity. The woman's actions, though motivated by fear or obligation, inadvertently highlight themes of sacrifice and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who is in a state of desperation and fear as he seeks guidance from a medium, having been abandoned by God due to his disobedience.

2. The Woman (Medium of Endor)
A woman who practices necromancy, whom Saul consults in violation of God's law, highlighting his spiritual decline and desperation.

3. Endor
A location in ancient Israel where the medium resided, representing a place of spiritual compromise for Saul.

4. Samuel (Referenced in Context)
The prophet who had died, whom Saul seeks to contact through the medium, symbolizing Saul's longing for divine guidance.

5. Philistines (Referenced in Context)
The enemy nation threatening Israel, whose impending attack contributes to Saul's fear and desperation.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Saul's actions demonstrate the severe consequences of turning away from God's commands. His desperation leads him to seek forbidden practices, resulting in further spiritual decline.

The Danger of Desperation
In times of fear and uncertainty, turning to ungodly sources for guidance can lead to destructive choices. Believers are encouraged to seek God through prayer and His Word.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's Word is crucial. Saul's life serves as a cautionary tale of how disobedience can lead to spiritual and personal ruin.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can drive individuals to make irrational and sinful decisions. Trusting in God's sovereignty and seeking His peace is essential for sound decision-making.

The Need for Repentance
Saul's account highlights the need for genuine repentance. Instead of seeking God’s forgiveness, Saul sought human solutions, leading to his downfall.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Saul's decision to consult a medium reveal about his spiritual state, and how can we guard against similar compromises in our own lives?

2. How does the prohibition against necromancy in Leviticus and Deuteronomy apply to modern practices that may seem harmless but are spiritually dangerous?

3. In what ways can fear influence our decisions, and how can we ensure that our choices align with God's will during times of fear?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult decision. How did seeking God’s guidance through prayer and scripture impact your decision-making process?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of obedience to God’s Word, and what steps can we take to repent and return to God when we stray from His commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 19:31
This verse warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, which Saul violates, showing his departure from God's commands.

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

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Samuel's earlier rebuke of Saul for disobedience, emphasizing that rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft, which Saul now engages in.