What does 1 Samuel 28:17 teach about the importance of obeying God's commands? Verse at a Glance “The LORD has done exactly as He spoke through me. The LORD has torn the kingdom out of your hand and given it to your neighbor — David.” The Backstory: A Trail of Disobedience • 1 Samuel 13 – Saul sacrifices unlawfully instead of waiting for Samuel. • 1 Samuel 15 – He spares King Agag and the best livestock after God commanded total destruction; Samuel declares, “To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). • By chapter 28, Saul has outlawed mediums but secretly seeks one, showing continued defiance. Key Truths About Obedience Drawn from the Verse • God’s word is unchanging. What He “spoke” through Samuel has come to pass without deviation. • Disobedience forfeits privilege. Saul’s throne is literally “torn” away; obedience would have secured it (cf. 1 Samuel 13:13-14). • God raises another who will obey. David, “a man after His own heart” (Acts 13:22), receives what Saul loses. • Divine judgment can be final and public. The kingdom transfer is not private; all Israel will see the consequences. Broader Scriptural Echoes • Deuteronomy 28:1-2 – Blessings tied to obeying “diligently the voice of the LORD.” • Proverbs 13:13 – “He who despises instruction will pay the penalty.” • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Consequences Illustrated in Saul’s Life 1. Loss of Position – Kingship removed. 2. Loss of Peace – Tormented by fear, seeking forbidden counsel. 3. Loss of Posterity – His dynasty ends (1 Samuel 31). 4. Loss of God’s Guidance – “The LORD did not answer him” (1 Samuel 28:6). Why Obedience Still Matters Today • God’s character has not changed; He remains faithful to His word. • Our choices ripple outward, affecting families, churches, and communities. • Obedience positions believers to enjoy God’s favor and fulfill their calling (James 1:25). • Christ models perfect obedience (Philippians 2:8) and empowers ours through the Spirit (Romans 8:4). Putting It into Practice • Measure every decision against Scripture rather than convenience or popular opinion. • Repent quickly when convicted; delayed obedience hardens the heart (Hebrews 3:15). • Cultivate a listening posture through regular reading of God’s word and submission to His Spirit. • Remember that obedience is an act of love, gratitude, and trust in the One who always keeps His promises. |
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