1 Samuel 15 Summary Samuel Denounces SaulVerses 1–3 – Samuel’s Charge from the LORD Verses 4–9 – Saul’s Selective Obedience Verses 10–16 – Divine Rejection Announced Verses 17–23 – The High Cost of Rebellion Verses 24–31 – Saul’s Hollow Confession Verses 32–35 – Samuel Completes the Ban 1 Samuel 15 is a critical chapter in the Old Testament that shows the fatal cost of disobedience to God's command. King Saul, chosen by God to lead Israel, disobeys a divine instruction, leading to a chain of events that concludes with his rejection as king. The chapter paints a vivid picture of leadership, obedience, divine judgement, and the irreversible consequences of sin. Historical Context: Saul, Samuel, and Amalek • Saul reigns in the mid-11th century BC, bridging Israel’s tribal period and the coming united monarchy under David. • Samuel is both prophet and last judge, carrying the LORD’s authority to install and depose kings (1 Samuel 10:1; 13:13–14). • Amalek descended from Esau’s grandson (Genesis 36:12). As desert raiders they harassed Israel from the Exodus onward. Amalek in Israel’s Memory Exodus 17:8–16 records the first battle, where Moses’ raised hands signaled victory. Deuteronomy 25:17–19 commands that Amalek’s memory be blotted out once Israel has rest in the land. Centuries later, 1 Samuel 15 is that long-delayed reckoning. The Command to Devote to Destruction • “Devote to destruction” (ḥērem) means setting something apart exclusively for God—by destroying it (Joshua 6). • The purpose was judgment, not conquest gains; sparing Agag and the best livestock turned holy war into personal profit. • Compare Numbers 21:2–3 and Deuteronomy 7:1–5, where total destruction safeguards Israel from idolatry. Saul’s Partial Compliance and Its Motives 1. Fear of the people: verse 24 shows Saul caving to popular opinion. 2. Greed: verse 19 highlights the pull of “plunder.” 3. Self-promotion: Saul sets up a monument for himself (verse 12). Partial obedience is still disobedience (James 2:10). Samuel’s Prophetic Role and Authority • Samuel hears God’s voice (15:10–11) and confronts the king, illustrating that no earthly ruler outranks divine authority. • His execution of Agag underscores that God’s word will stand, even when leaders vacillate (compare 1 Kings 13:1–3). Obedience over Sacrifice – A Thread through Scripture “Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obedience to the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). Parallel affirmations: • Psalm 51:16–17 – God desires a broken spirit rather than ritual alone. • Isaiah 1:11–17 – Empty offerings without justice are rejected. • Mark 12:33 – Jesus echoes that loving God is greater than offerings. Foreshadowing the Next King • “The LORD has sought a man after His own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). Chapter 15 sets the stage for David’s anointing in chapter 16. • Saul’s tearing of Samuel’s robe (15:27) becomes a sign: torn kingdom, soon given to another (compare 1 Kings 11:29–31). Archaeological and Geographical Notes • Amalekite territory ranged through the Negev down to the Sinai. Egyptian texts speak of “Amalek”-like tribesmen called the Shasu. • Gilgal’s likely site near Jericho shows a permanent worship center with evidence of large stone circles matching the Hebrew name “circle of stones.” • Ancient Near Eastern treaties demanded total loyalty; breaking divine command mirrored breaking covenant suzerainty terms. Practical Insights for Today • God values wholehearted obedience above outward show. • Leadership fails when it seeks approval from people more than from God. • Delayed or partial compliance reveals a divided heart; true repentance turns from sin without negotiation. Key Cross References at a Glance Exodus 17:8–16 – First clash with Amalek Deuteronomy 25:17–19 – Command to blot out Amalek Numbers 24:20 – Balaam foretells Amalek’s end 1 Samuel 13:13–14 – Saul’s earlier disobedience Psalm 40:6–8 – Delight in doing God’s will Hosea 6:6 – Mercy desired, not sacrifice Acts 13:22 – David, man after God’s heart
Saul’s Disobedience 1Then Samuel said to Saul, “The LORD sent me to anoint you king over His people Israel. Now therefore, listen to the words of the LORD. 2This is what the LORD of Hosts says: ‘I witnessed what the Amalekites did to the Israelites when they opposed them on their way up from Egypt. 3Now go and attack the Amalekites and devote to destructiona all that belongs to them. Do not spare them, but put to death men and women, children and infants, oxen and sheep, camels and donkeys.’” 4So Saul summoned the troops and numbered them at Telaim—200,000 foot soldiers and 10,000 men of Judah. 5Saul came to the city of Amalek and lay in wait in the valley. 6And he warned the Kenites, “Since you showed kindness to all the Israelites when they came up out of Egypt, go on and get away from the Amalekites. Otherwise I will sweep you away with them.” So the Kenites moved away from the Amalekites. 7Then Saul struck down the Amalekites all the way from Havilah to Shur, which is east of Egypt. 8He captured Agag king of Amalek alive, but devoted all the others to destruction with the sword. 9Saul and his troops spared Agag, along with the best of the sheep and cattle, the fat calvesb and lambs, and the best of everything else. They were unwilling to devote them to destruction, but they devoted to destruction all that was despised and worthless. Samuel Denounces Saul 10Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel, saying, 11“I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned away from following Me and has not carried out My instructions.” And Samuel was distressed and cried out to the LORD all that night. 12Early in the morning Samuel got up to confront Saul, but he was told, “Saul has gone to Carmel, and behold, he has set up a monument for himself and has turned and gone down to Gilgal.” 13When Samuel reached him, Saul said to him, “May the LORD bless you. I have carried out the LORD’s instructions.” 14But Samuel replied, “Then what is this bleating of sheep and lowing of cattle that I hear?” 15Saul answered, “The troops brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD your God, but the rest we devoted to destruction.” 16“Stop!” exclaimed Samuel. “Let me tell you what the LORD said to me last night.” 17And Samuel said, “Although you were once small in your own eyes, have you not become the head of the tribes of Israel? The LORD anointed you king over Israel 18and sent you on a mission, saying, ‘Go and devote to destruction the sinful Amalekites. Fight against them until you have wiped them out.’ 19So why did you not obey the LORD? Why did you rush upon the plunder and do evil in the sight of the LORD?” 20“But I did obey the LORD,” Saul replied. “I went on the mission that the LORD gave me. I brought back Agag king of Amalek and devoted the Amalekites to destruction. 21The troops took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of the things devoted to destruction, in order to sacrifice them to the LORD your God at Gilgal.” 22But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. 23For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, Saul’s Confession 24Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have transgressed the LORD’s commandment and your instructions, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. 25Now therefore, please forgive my sin and return with me so I can worship the LORD.” 26“I will not return with you,” Samuel replied. “For you have rejected the word of the LORD, and He has rejected you as king over Israel.” 27As Samuel turned to go, Saul grabbed the hem of his robe, and it tore. 28So Samuel said to him, “The LORD has torn the kingdom of Israel from you today and has given it to your neighbor who is better than you. 29Moreover, the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind, for He is not a man, that He should change His mind.” 30“I have sinned,” Saul replied. “Please honor me now before the elders of my people and before Israel. Come back with me, so that I may worship the LORD your God.” 31So Samuel went back with Saul, and Saul worshiped the LORD. 32Then Samuel said, “Bring me Agag king of the Amalekites.” Agag came to him cheerfully,c for he thought, “Surely the bitterness of death is past.”d 33But Samuel declared: “As your sword has made women childless, so your mother will be childless among women.” And Samuel hacked Agag to pieces before the LORD at Gilgal. 34Then Samuel went to Ramah, but Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. 35And to the day of his death, Samuel never again visited Saul. Samuel mourned for Saul, and the LORD regretted that He had made Saul king over Israel. Footnotes: 3 a Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering; also in verses 8, 9, 15, 18, 20, and 21. 9 b Or the grown bulls 32 c Or cautiously or in chains; see DSS and LXX. 32 d Or “Surely this is the bitterness of death.” See DSS and LXX. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Connections to Additional Scriptures James 1:22Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. This verse reinforces the importance of putting God's word into action. John 14:15 If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. Jesus emphasizes that love for Him is demonstrated through obedience. Proverbs 21:3 To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice. This echoes the message that God values righteous living over ritualistic offerings. Teaching Points God's Command to SaulGod, through the prophet Samuel, commands Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites and all they possess as an act of divine judgment (1 Samuel 15:3). This command underscores the seriousness of God's justice and the importance of following His instructions fully. Saul's Partial Obedience Saul spares King Agag and the best of the livestock, rationalizing his disobedience by claiming the animals were kept for sacrifice to the Lord (1 Samuel 15:9, 15). This highlights the danger of rationalizing sin and the temptation to prioritize personal judgment over God's clear commands. Samuel's Rebuke Samuel confronts Saul, declaring, To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams (1 Samuel 15:22). This emphasizes that God values obedience over ritualistic offerings and that true worship involves aligning our hearts and actions with His will. Consequences of Disobedience Saul's disobedience leads to his rejection as king, illustrating the severe consequences of failing to fully obey God (1 Samuel 15:23). This serves as a sobering reminder of the cost of disobedience and the importance of integrity in our walk with God. Practical Applications Evaluate Your ObedienceRegularly assess areas in your life where you may be practicing partial obedience. Are there commands of God that you are rationalizing or neglecting? Prioritize God's Commands Make a conscious effort to prioritize God's instructions over personal desires or societal pressures. Seek to understand His will through prayer and study of Scripture. Repentance and Restoration If you recognize areas of disobedience, seek God's forgiveness and commit to aligning your actions with His commands. Remember that God is gracious and willing to restore those who turn back to Him. People 1. SamuelSamuel is the prophet and judge of Israel who delivers God's message to Saul. In 1 Samuel 15, he is tasked with conveying God's command to Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites. Samuel later confronts Saul for his disobedience and informs him that God has rejected him as king. The Hebrew root of Samuel's name, "שְׁמוּאֵל" (Shemuel), means "heard by God" or "name of God." 2. Saul Saul is the first king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. In this chapter, he is commanded by God to annihilate the Amalekites but fails to fully obey by sparing King Agag and the best of the livestock. Saul's disobedience leads to God's rejection of him as king. The Hebrew name "שָׁאוּל" (Shaul) means "asked for" or "prayed for." 3. Agag Agag is the king of the Amalekites, whom Saul spares despite God's command to destroy all the Amalekites. His sparing is a significant act of disobedience on Saul's part. The name "Agag" is of uncertain origin but is used to denote the Amalekite kings, similar to how "Pharaoh" is used for Egyptian rulers. 4. The LORD (Yahweh) The LORD, referred to as Yahweh in the Hebrew text, is the God of Israel who commands Saul through Samuel to destroy the Amalekites. The chapter emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as well as His disappointment with Saul's disobedience. The Hebrew name "יהוה" (YHWH) is considered the sacred and personal name of God. Places 1. GilgalGilgal is mentioned in 1 Samuel 15:12, where Samuel goes to meet Saul. It is a significant location in Israel's history, often associated with important events and decisions. In Hebrew, "Gilgal" (גִּלְגָּל) can mean "circle of stones," which may refer to its use as a place of worship or assembly. 2. Amalek The land of the Amalekites is referenced in 1 Samuel 15:2-3, where God commands Saul to attack the Amalekites and completely destroy them. The Amalekites were a nomadic tribe, and their territory was south of Canaan. The Hebrew root "Amalek" (עֲמָלֵק) is associated with this ancient enemy of Israel. 3. Carmel In 1 Samuel 15:12, Saul sets up a monument for himself in Carmel after his victory over the Amalekites. This Carmel is not the famous Mount Carmel but a town in the territory of Judah. The Hebrew "Carmel" (כַּרְמֶל) means "vineyard" or "orchard," indicating a fertile area. 4. Gibeah Although not directly mentioned in 1 Samuel 15, Gibeah is Saul's hometown and the location of his royal residence. It is implied as a place of significance in Saul's life and reign. The Hebrew "Gibeah" (גִּבְעָה) means "hill," reflecting its geographical setting. Events 1. Samuel's Command to SaulSamuel delivers a message from the LORD to Saul, instructing him to "go and attack the Amalekites and devote to destruction all that belongs to them" (1 Samuel 15:3). The Hebrew term used here for "devote to destruction" is "ḥērem," which implies a complete consecration or destruction as an offering to God. 2. Saul's Attack on the Amalekites Saul gathers his troops and attacks the Amalekites, as instructed by the LORD through Samuel. He defeats them from Havilah to Shur, which is east of Egypt (1 Samuel 15:7). 3. Saul Spares Agag and the Best of the Livestock Contrary to God's command, Saul spares Agag, the king of the Amalekites, and keeps the best of the sheep, cattle, and other valuables, claiming they are to be sacrificed to the LORD (1 Samuel 15:9). The Hebrew word "ḥērem" is again relevant here, as Saul fails to fully carry out the command to devote everything to destruction. 4. The LORD's Regret The LORD expresses regret for making Saul king, as Saul has turned away from following Him and has not carried out His commands (1 Samuel 15:11). The Hebrew word "nāḥam" is used here, indicating a change of mind or sorrow. 5. Samuel Confronts Saul Samuel confronts Saul about his disobedience. Saul initially claims he has obeyed the LORD, but Samuel challenges him by asking about the bleating of sheep and lowing of cattle (1 Samuel 15:14). 6. Saul's Justification and Samuel's Rebuke Saul justifies his actions by saying the people spared the best of the livestock to sacrifice to the LORD. Samuel rebukes him, stating that obedience is better than sacrifice and that rebellion is like the sin of divination (1 Samuel 15:22-23). 7. Saul's Confession and Plea Saul admits his sin, acknowledging that he feared the people and obeyed their voice. He pleads with Samuel to forgive his sin and return with him to worship the LORD (1 Samuel 15:24-25). 8. Samuel's Final Judgment Samuel declares that the LORD has rejected Saul as king over Israel. Despite Saul's pleas, Samuel turns away, and as Saul grabs his robe, it tears, symbolizing the kingdom being torn from Saul (1 Samuel 15:27-28). 9. Execution of Agag Samuel orders Agag to be brought to him and executes him, fulfilling the LORD's command to completely destroy the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:33). 10. Samuel and Saul Part Ways Samuel departs from Saul and does not see him again until the day of his death, though he mourns for him. The LORD regrets making Saul king over Israel (1 Samuel 15:35). Lessons from 1 Samuel 15 1. Obedience Over Sacrifice 2. Partial Obedience is Disobedience 3. The Consequences of Disobedience 4. The Importance of True Repentance 5. God’s Sovereignty in Leadership 6. The Role of Prophets 7. The Danger of Pride 8. God’s Regret and Human Free Will 9. The Significance of Listening to God 10. God’s Unchanging Nature Topics 1. The Command to Destroy AmalekIn 1 Samuel 15:1-3, the LORD instructs Samuel to convey a message to Saul, commanding him to "strike down Amalek and devote to destruction all that they have" (1 Samuel 15:3). The Hebrew term used here for "devote to destruction" is "ḥērem," which implies a complete consecration to God, often through destruction. 2. Saul's Partial Obedience Verses 4-9 describe Saul's campaign against the Amalekites. Saul spares Agag, the king, and the best of the livestock, directly disobeying God's command to destroy everything. This partial obedience highlights Saul's failure to fully submit to God's will. 3. God's Regret Over Saul's Kingship In 1 Samuel 15:10-11, the LORD expresses regret for making Saul king, as Saul has turned away from following Him. The Hebrew word "nāḥam" is used here, which can mean to be sorry or to regret, indicating a change in divine intention due to human actions. 4. Samuel Confronts Saul Verses 12-21 detail Samuel's confrontation with Saul. Saul attempts to justify his actions by claiming the spared livestock were intended for sacrifice to the LORD. Samuel challenges Saul's rationalization, emphasizing obedience over sacrifice. 5. The Rejection of Saul as King In 1 Samuel 15:22-23, Samuel delivers a pivotal message: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Samuel 15:22). He declares that rebellion is akin to witchcraft and idolatry, and because Saul has rejected God's word, God has rejected him as king. 6. Saul's Confession and Plea Saul admits his sin in verses 24-25, acknowledging his fear of the people led him to disobey God. He pleads with Samuel to pardon his sin and return with him to worship the LORD. 7. Samuel's Final Judgment on Saul In verses 26-29, Samuel refuses to accompany Saul, reiterating that the LORD has rejected Saul as king. Samuel emphasizes the unchangeable nature of God's decision, using the Hebrew term "neṣaḥ," meaning eternal or enduring. 8. The Execution of Agag Verses 32-33 describe Samuel's execution of Agag. Samuel declares, "As your sword has made women childless, so your mother will be childless among women" (1 Samuel 15:33), fulfilling God's command through decisive action. 9. The Separation of Samuel and Saul The chapter concludes in verses 34-35 with Samuel and Saul parting ways. Samuel mourns for Saul, and the LORD regrets making Saul king over Israel, underscoring the finality of Saul's rejection and the sorrow it brings. Themes 1. Obedience to God's CommandIn 1 Samuel 15, the theme of obedience is central. God commands Saul through Samuel to "utterly destroy all that belongs to [the Amalekites]" (1 Samuel 15:3). The Hebrew word used here for "utterly destroy" is "חָרַם" (charam), which implies a complete and irrevocable dedication to destruction. Saul's failure to fully obey this command highlights the importance of complete obedience to God's instructions. 2. The Consequences of Disobedience Saul's partial obedience leads to severe consequences. Despite sparing King Agag and the best of the livestock, Saul claims to have obeyed God. Samuel rebukes him, saying, "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Samuel 15:22). This underscores the theme that disobedience, even with good intentions, results in divine judgment. 3. The Rejection of Saul as King Saul's disobedience results in God rejecting him as king. Samuel tells Saul, "Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king" (1 Samuel 15:23). The Hebrew word for "rejected" is "מָאַס" (ma'as), indicating a strong sense of rejection or despising. This theme emphasizes the seriousness of turning away from God's commands. 4. The Nature of True Repentance Saul's response to his sin is more about saving face than genuine repentance. He admits, "I have sinned," but his concern is more about his reputation than true remorse (1 Samuel 15:24). This theme highlights the difference between superficial repentance and a heartfelt turning back to God. 5. God's Unchanging Nature The narrative emphasizes that God does not change His mind like humans do. Samuel states, "He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind" (1 Samuel 15:29). The Hebrew word "נָחַם" (nacham) is used here, often translated as "repent" or "relent," but in this context, it underscores God's steadfastness and reliability. 6. The Role of Prophetic Authority Samuel's role as a prophet is crucial in this chapter. He delivers God's commands and judgments, demonstrating the authority of God's word through His prophets. Samuel's actions, including the execution of Agag, reinforce the theme of prophetic authority and the seriousness of God's commands (1 Samuel 15:33). 7. The Symbolism of Sacrifice The chapter contrasts external religious rituals with internal obedience. Samuel's statement, "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1 Samuel 15:22), highlights that God values obedience over ritualistic offerings. This theme points to the heart of worship being aligned with God's will rather than mere external compliance. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Obedience Ask God to cultivate a heart that desires to fully obey His commands and to remove any areas of resistance or rationalization. Seek Forgiveness and Restoration Guidance and Discernment Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Samuel 15:3, why would a just and loving God command the complete destruction of an entire population, including children? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What was God’s command to Saul, and how did Saul respond to this command? 2. What are some potential reasons for Saul's disobedience? In today's context, what factors could lead us to rationalize disobedience to God's command? 3. How does this chapter demonstrate the significance of obedience in our relationship with God? 4. What does Saul's partial obedience teach us about the nature of sin? 5. How do you interpret God's expression of regret over Saul's kingship? Does this change your understanding of God's omniscience and/or immutability? 6. In what ways does Saul's response to Samuel's confrontation reflect our own responses when confronted with our sins? 7. What do you think it means when Samuel said, "to obey is better than sacrifice" (verse 22)? 8. How does the execution of Agag by Samuel align with our understanding of justice? 9. How does the concept of divine judgement presented in this chapter relate to modern ideas of justice and accountability? 10. Saul blamed the people for his disobedience. How does this chapter highlight the role of personal responsibility in spiritual leadership? 11. How do you reconcile the image of God as a compassionate and loving deity with His command to destroy the Amalekites completely? 12. In what ways does this chapter challenge our understanding of God's mercy? 13. How does the story of Saul's rejection as king resonate with the concept of leadership in the world today? 14. How can we apply the lessons learned from Saul's rejection to our personal lives? 15. How does the mourning of Samuel for Saul demonstrate the pain of witnessing the spiritual failure of a leader? 16. Can you think of any modern-day situations where leaders were held accountable for their disobedience or unethical behavior? 17. Samuel states, "He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind." How does this affirm God's unchanging nature, and how can this provide comfort in your life? 18. Reflect on Saul's repentance. How can we ensure our repentance is sincere and not merely an attempt to escape consequences? 19. Saul asked Samuel to honor him before the elders of the people after his disobedience. Discuss the relevance of this in today's societal context. 20. Reflect on the overall narrative of Saul's life thus far. How does this story underscore the importance of obedience, humility, and the fear of God in our lives? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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