College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
1 Samuel 10 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 10
Saul anointed by Samuel. The priests were anointed (Leviticus 8:10). The prophets of Israel were also set aside to their office by this solemn ceremony (1 Kings 19:16). The king was also to be set aside to his office by a divine service.
Saul among the prophets. This saying became a proverb in Israel, and is used often to express amazement at a person's being in unusual company: Is Saul also among the prophets? (1 Samuel 10:12 b). His meeting the band of prophets and the change of heart which came upon him had been foretold by Samuel when the two parted company. His change of heart was typical of those charismatic leaders upon whom God's spirit came as they entered into their offices.
Saul acclaimed by the people. Samuel called the people to a solemn assembly. He issued grave warnings to them about the nature of a king, even writing the manner of the kingdom in a book and laying it up before the Lord to be preserved for future generations (1 Samuel 10:25). He proceeded then to implement the establishment of the king in his office. In prayerful spirit, the people shouted: God save the king (1 Samuel 10:24 b). As in most political situations, there was not complete unanimity of opinion; but it was only the worthless fellows who opposed Saul's coronation (1 Samuel 10:27).
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
The blessing of the spirit of God. When God raised up judges to deliver His people, He sent His spirit upon them (Judges 3:10; Judges 6:34; Judges 11:29; Judges 13:25; Judges 14:6; Judges 14:19), When the Spirit of God came upon Saul, he prophesied among the prophets. Although Christians today are not to expect miraculous manifestations of the Spirit of God in their lives, each Christian has the gift of the Holy Spirit to rest and abide in his life as he becomes an obedient child of God (Acts 2:38). God's Spirit bearing witness with his spirit enables him not only to begin a Christian life but to bring forth the fruits of the spirit (Galatians 5:22-26).
2.
The fellowship of the faithful. Hardly any situation in everyday life finds a great number of people to be of unanimous opinion. The sharpest division of opinion and purpose occurs between good men and evil men. Those who are in a position of leadership in God's work ought not to grieve too much that there are wicked opponents of their good work, but they ought to give thanks daily for those who join with them in the good work they are doing. When Saul was anointed king, ... there went with him a band of men, whose hearts God had touched (1 Samuel 10:26). Those whose hearts have been touched by God will uphold God's leaders today.
CHAPTER 10 IN REVIEW
1.
With what was Saul anointed?
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2.
What mark of personal affection did Samuel bestow on Saul?
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3.
By what memorial did Samuel tell Saul he would meet two young men?
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4.
What kind of musical instruments did they have?
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5.
How many men going up to Bethel was Saul to see?
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6.
What items of offering were they to have?
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7.
To what town was Saul to go to meet Samuel again?
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8.
In what unusual activity was Saul to participate after God's spirit came upon him?
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9.
Who was Saul's uncle?
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10.
Where was Saul anointed a second time?
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