What can we learn about God's sovereignty from Saul's encounter in 1 Samuel 28? Background: A Desperate King Meets a Forbidden Practice - Saul, abandoned by Samuel’s death and the Philistine threat, seeks answers outside the boundaries God set (1 Samuel 28:5–7). - Deuteronomy 18:10-12 labels necromancy “detestable,” yet Saul crosses that line—revealing a heart already drifting from God’s rule. Divine Silence Highlights Sovereign Authority - God had already refused to answer Saul “by dreams, or Urim, or prophets” (1 Samuel 28:6). - The silence itself is an act of rulership—He decides when and how to speak (Amos 8:11; Psalm 115:3). - Saul discovers that even a king cannot force heaven’s hand; God’s sovereignty sets the terms of communication. God Governs the Invisible Realm - 1 Samuel 28:13: “Do not be afraid,’ the king said to her. ‘What do you see?’ The woman replied, ‘I see a god coming up out of the earth.’” • The medium’s terror shows she did not control what appeared; God overruled her craft. • The genuine Samuel speaks (vv. 14-19), proving the Lord alone commands the spirits of the righteous dead (Hebrews 12:23). - Job 12:10: “In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Heaven, earth, and the realm of the departed remain under one King. Sovereign Judgment Cannot Be Escaped - Samuel pronounces Saul’s doom: “Tomorrow you and your sons will be with me” (1 Samuel 28:19). - 1 Chronicles 10:13-14 later confirms the event as the legal basis for Saul’s death: “He did not inquire of the LORD.” - God’s verdict stands even when sought through forbidden channels; human shortcuts lead straight back to His throne of justice. God’s Purposes Advance Despite Rebellion - While Saul unravels, God is preparing David’s ascent (1 Samuel 16:1, 13). - Proverbs 16:9: “A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” - The Philistine threat, Samuel’s message, and the ensuing battlefield events all converge to seat the rightful king—demonstrating that no human failure derails divine plans. Practical Takeaways for Today - God may withhold guidance to expose misplaced trust; wait on Him rather than grasp at forbidden solutions. - His sovereignty covers every realm—seen and unseen—so obedience remains the safest path. - Judgment is real and certain; repentance is the only escape (Isaiah 55:6-7). - Even in dark chapters, God’s larger story marches on for His glory and the good of His people. |
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