1 Samuel 19:24

Then Saul stripped off his robes and also prophesied before Samuel. And he collapsed and lay naked all that day and night. That is why it is said, "Is Saul also among the prophets?"

Study Bible

Then Saul stripped off his robes
In ancient Israel, robes were a symbol of authority and status. Saul removing his robes signifies a loss of royal dignity and control. This act can be seen as a symbolic stripping away of his kingly authority, which aligns with God's earlier rejection of Saul as king (1 Samuel 15:26-28). The removal of robes also indicates vulnerability and humility, whether voluntary or involuntary.

and also prophesied before Samuel.
Prophesying in this context refers to being overtaken by the Spirit of God, leading to ecstatic utterances or actions. Saul's prophesying is significant because it occurs in the presence of Samuel, the prophet who anointed him as king. This event mirrors an earlier episode in 1 Samuel 10:10-12, where Saul also prophesied, marking the beginning of his kingship. The presence of Samuel underscores the divine influence and the prophetic authority that Saul is temporarily under.

And he collapsed and lay naked all that day and night.
The term "naked" here may not imply complete nudity but rather being stripped of his outer garments, leaving him in a state of undress. This act of lying prostrate and exposed for an extended period signifies a profound spiritual experience or judgment. It reflects Saul's helplessness and the overpowering nature of God's Spirit, which can be seen as a form of divine intervention or correction. This incident highlights Saul's vulnerability and the temporary suspension of his kingly duties.

That is why it is said, “Is Saul also among the prophets?”
This phrase became a proverbial expression in Israel, indicating surprise at someone acting out of character or being unexpectedly overtaken by the Spirit of God. It first appeared in 1 Samuel 10:11-12 when Saul was initially anointed as king. The repetition of this phrase here emphasizes the irony of Saul's spiritual state, contrasting his initial divine appointment with his current rejection by God. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the unpredictable nature of His Spirit's work.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is experiencing a spiritual crisis and is overtaken by the Spirit of God, leading to unexpected behavior.

2. Samuel
The prophet and last judge of Israel, who anointed Saul as king and serves as a spiritual leader and mentor.

3. Ramah
The place where Samuel resides and where Saul goes to seek David, but instead encounters the Spirit of God.

4. Prophesying
An act often associated with speaking under divine inspiration, which Saul unexpectedly engages in, leading to the proverbial question about his prophetic status.

5. David
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the central figure Saul is pursuing, and his presence in Ramah is the reason for Saul's visit.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's Spirit can move in unexpected ways, even using those who are not fully aligned with His will to accomplish His purposes. This reminds us of God's ultimate control over all situations.

Unexpected Instruments
Just as Saul was used by God despite his flawed character, we should remain open to how God might use us or others in surprising ways for His glory.

Humility in Leadership
Saul's experience serves as a reminder that no position or title exempts one from the need for humility and submission to God's Spirit.

The Power of God's Presence
The overwhelming presence of God can lead to profound changes in behavior and perspective, encouraging us to seek His presence earnestly.

Community and Accountability
Saul's actions were witnessed by others, leading to a communal reflection on his spiritual state. This underscores the importance of community in our spiritual journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's experience in 1 Samuel 19:24 challenge our understanding of who can be used by God?

2. In what ways can we remain open to the unexpected movements of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

3. How does the phrase "Is Saul also among the prophets?" serve as a reflection on our own spiritual identity and growth?

4. What lessons can we learn from Saul's leadership and spiritual journey that apply to our roles in our communities and churches?

5. How can we cultivate a community that encourages accountability and spiritual growth, as seen in the interactions between Saul, Samuel, and the prophets?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 10:10-12
This earlier event where Saul prophesies among the prophets for the first time, establishing the phrase, "Is Saul also among the prophets?" This connection highlights the recurring theme of Saul's unexpected spiritual experiences.

Acts 9:3-9
Saul of Tarsus (later Paul) experiences a dramatic encounter with God, leading to a transformation. This parallel shows how divine encounters can lead to unexpected changes in behavior and direction.

Numbers 24:2-4
Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is overtaken by the Spirit of God, illustrating that God can use anyone to fulfill His purposes, regardless of their status or intentions.