Topical Encyclopedia Malice, as a concept, is often understood as the intention or desire to do evil or cause harm to others. In the biblical narrative, King Saul of Israel is a prominent figure whose life and actions provide a vivid illustration of malice, particularly in his relationship with David, the future king of Israel.Background of Saul Saul, the son of Kish from the tribe of Benjamin, was anointed by the prophet Samuel as the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9-10). Initially, Saul was a humble and promising leader, chosen by God to deliver Israel from the oppression of the Philistines. However, as his reign progressed, Saul's disobedience to God's commands led to his rejection by God as king (1 Samuel 15:26-28). Saul's Malice Toward David The malice of Saul is most evident in his interactions with David. After David's victory over Goliath, he gained favor in the eyes of the people and Saul's own son, Jonathan. This favor incited Saul's jealousy and fear, as he perceived David as a threat to his throne. The Bible records, "Saul was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. 'They have credited David with tens of thousands,' he thought, 'but me with only thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?' And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David" (1 Samuel 18:8-9). Saul's jealousy quickly turned into malice, as he sought to kill David on multiple occasions. Saul's attempts included hurling a spear at David (1 Samuel 18:10-11), sending him into dangerous battles hoping he would be killed (1 Samuel 18:17, 25), and openly pursuing him with the intent to take his life (1 Samuel 19:1-2). The Spiritual Decline of Saul Saul's malice was not only a personal vendetta but also a reflection of his spiritual decline. His disobedience to God, as seen in his unlawful sacrifice (1 Samuel 13:8-14) and his failure to completely destroy the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:1-23), led to the withdrawal of God's Spirit from him. The Bible states, "Now the Spirit of the LORD had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD tormented him" (1 Samuel 16:14). This spiritual void contributed to Saul's irrational and malicious behavior. Saul's Pursuit of David Saul's relentless pursuit of David is a testament to the destructive power of malice. Despite David's loyalty and his refusal to harm Saul, even when given the opportunity (1 Samuel 24:4-7; 26:9-11), Saul continued to seek his life. David's response to Saul's malice was marked by integrity and trust in God's justice, as he declared, "May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me against you, but my hand will never be against you" (1 Samuel 24:12). The Consequences of Malice The malice that consumed Saul ultimately led to his downfall. His inability to overcome his jealousy and hatred for David resulted in a life marked by paranoia, fear, and eventual defeat. Saul's tragic end came during a battle with the Philistines, where he took his own life to avoid capture (1 Samuel 31:4). Saul's account serves as a cautionary tale about the corrosive nature of malice and the importance of obedience to God. His life illustrates how unchecked malice can lead to spiritual and personal ruin, highlighting the need for humility, repentance, and reliance on God's guidance. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Samuel 18:9-11And Saul eyed David from that day and forward. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The History of Saul Saul's Conversion The Wordless Book Samuel The Exile --Continued. The victory of Unarmed Faith From Persecutor to Disciple Psalm LII. Psalm XVIII. Psalm LXX. Resources Who was John Foxe? What is Foxe's Book of Martyrs? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about envy? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about being nosey? | GotQuestions.org Malice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Malfeasance in office: The Leasees of the Vineyard, in One of the Parables of Jesus Malfeasance in office: The Steward Mentioned in One of the Parables of Jesus Malice: A Hindrance to Growth in Grace Malice: Ahithophel Toward David Malice: Ammonites Toward the Israelites Malice: Brings Its own Punishment Malice: Christian Liberty not to be a Cloak For Malice: General Scriptures Concerning Malice: Herod Antipas Toward Jesus Malice: Incompatible With the Worship of God Malice: James and John Toward the Samaritans Malice: Joseph's Brothers Toward Joseph Malice: Masters of the Sorcerous Damsel Toward Paul Malice: Nebuchadrezzar Toward Zedekiah Malice: Philistines Toward Isaac Malice: Potiphar's Wife Toward Joseph Malice: Pray for Those Who Injure You Through Malice: Samaritans Toward the Jews Malice: Springs from an Evil Heart Malice: The Jewish Leaders Toward Jesus Malice: The Wicked: Filled With Malice: The Wicked: Speak With Malice: The Wicked: Visit Saints With Related Terms Unrighteousness (57 Occurrences) |
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