Topical Bible: Presumption: Saul, in Sacrificing

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In the biblical narrative, the concept of presumption is vividly illustrated in the actions of King Saul, particularly in the episode of his unauthorized sacrifice. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 13 and serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of acting presumptuously, especially in matters of divine command and worship.

Context and Background

Saul, the first king of Israel, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the leader of God's chosen people. His reign began with promise, but his failure to adhere strictly to God's commands led to his eventual downfall. The incident of presumption in sacrificing occurred early in his reign, during a time of military tension with the Philistines.

The Incident

The Philistines had gathered to fight against Israel, and Saul's forces were vastly outnumbered. As the Israelites faced the threat of the Philistine army, they were filled with fear and began to scatter. Saul, recognizing the urgency of the situation, awaited the arrival of Samuel at Gilgal to offer sacrifices to seek God's favor before engaging in battle.

According to 1 Samuel 13:8-9 , "And he waited seven days, the time set by Samuel; but Samuel did not come to Gilgal, and the troops began to desert him. So Saul said, 'Bring me the burnt offering and the peace offerings.' And he offered up the burnt offering."

Saul's Presumption

Saul's decision to offer the sacrifice himself was a direct violation of the divine order. In Israel, the role of offering sacrifices was reserved for the priests, and Samuel, as a prophet, had been designated to perform this sacred duty. Saul's presumption lay in his assumption that he could take on a role not appointed to him, driven by impatience and fear of losing his army.

Samuel's Rebuke

When Samuel finally arrived, he confronted Saul about his disobedience. In 1 Samuel 13:13-14 , Samuel declared, "You have acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You have not kept the command that the LORD your God gave you; if you had, He would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. But now your kingdom will not endure; the LORD has sought out a man after His own heart and appointed him ruler of His people, because you have not kept the LORD’s command."

Theological Implications

Saul's presumption in sacrificing highlights several key theological themes:

1. Obedience to Divine Command: The incident underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. Saul's failure to wait for Samuel and his unauthorized sacrifice demonstrated a lack of trust in God's timing and provision.

2. Role and Authority: The narrative emphasizes the significance of respecting divinely appointed roles and authorities. Saul's assumption of priestly duties was a breach of the established order, reflecting a disregard for God's structure of leadership.

3. Consequences of Disobedience: Saul's presumption had lasting consequences, leading to the eventual loss of his kingdom. This serves as a reminder of the serious repercussions that can follow when one acts outside of God's will.

4. Faith and Patience: The episode illustrates the need for faith and patience in waiting for God's timing. Saul's impatience led him to take matters into his own hands, resulting in his downfall.

In summary, Saul's presumption in sacrificing is a poignant example of the dangers of acting outside of God's commands and the importance of obedience, respect for divine roles, and trust in God's timing.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 13:8-14
And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.
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Library

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[Endnotes]
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//christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/endnotes.htm

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part ii
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//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm