1 Samuel 9:17

When Samuel saw Saul, the LORD told him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke; he shall rule over My people."

Study Bible

When Samuel saw Saul
This moment marks the first encounter between the prophet Samuel and Saul, who would become the first king of Israel. Samuel, a significant figure in Israel's history, was a prophet, judge, and leader. Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin, was searching for his father's lost donkeys, which providentially led him to Samuel. This encounter was orchestrated by God, highlighting His sovereignty in guiding events. The meeting took place in the region of Zuph, near Ramah, Samuel's hometown, emphasizing the divine orchestration in Saul's journey.

the LORD told him
The direct communication between God and Samuel underscores the prophetic office's importance in Israel. Samuel's role as a prophet was to convey God's will to the people, and here, God provides specific guidance. This divine revelation is consistent with how God communicated with His prophets throughout the Old Testament, ensuring His purposes were fulfilled. It also highlights the intimate relationship between God and His chosen servants, as seen in other prophetic callings, such as those of Moses and Elijah.

“Here is the man of whom I spoke;
God had previously informed Samuel about the coming of a man who would be anointed as king (1 Samuel 9:15-16). This phrase confirms God's earlier revelation and demonstrates His foreknowledge and plan for Israel's leadership. The choice of Saul, a man of impressive stature and appearance, aligns with the people's desire for a king like the nations around them, though it contrasts with God's ideal of a leader after His own heart, as later seen in David.

he shall rule over My people.”
This statement establishes Saul's divine appointment as king, despite the people's initial request for a monarchy being seen as a rejection of God's direct rule (1 Samuel 8:7). The term "rule" indicates a leadership role that involves governance, protection, and guidance. Saul's kingship is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, transitioning from a theocracy to a monarchy. This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate fulfillment of God's kingship through Jesus Christ, the true King who rules with justice and righteousness, as prophesied in passages like Isaiah 9:6-7.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Samuel
A prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel was instrumental in transitioning Israel from a confederation of tribes to a monarchy. He was chosen by God to anoint the first two kings of Israel, Saul and David.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin. He was chosen by God to lead His people, although his reign eventually turned tragic due to disobedience.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who communicates His will to Samuel regarding the leadership of His people.

4. Israel
The nation chosen by God, consisting of twelve tribes. At this time, they were seeking a king to lead them like other nations.

5. Ramah
The place where Samuel lived and where he met Saul. It served as a center for Samuel's prophetic ministry.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
God is actively involved in appointing leaders. His choice of Saul, despite the people's motives, shows His control over history and His plans for His people.

The Role of Prophets
Samuel's role as a prophet highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and guidance in discerning God's will.

Human Desire vs. Divine Will
Israel's demand for a king reflects a tension between human desires and God's perfect will. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance rather than conforming to worldly standards.

Obedience to God's Commands
Saul's account serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience to God. Leadership without adherence to God's commands leads to downfall.

God's Faithfulness
Despite human failures, God remains faithful to His promises and purposes, working through imperfect people to accomplish His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the appointment of Saul as king reflect God's sovereignty, and what does this teach us about God's involvement in leadership today?

2. In what ways can we discern God's will in our lives, similar to how Samuel received guidance from God?

3. How does the account of Israel's demand for a king challenge us to evaluate our own desires and align them with God's will?

4. What lessons can we learn from Saul's eventual disobedience, and how can we apply these lessons to our own walk with God?

5. How does the transition from judges to a monarchy in Israel relate to the broader account of God's redemptive plan, and what implications does this have for understanding God's faithfulness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 8
This chapter provides context for Israel's demand for a king, which leads to Saul's anointing. It highlights the people's desire to be like other nations, despite God's warnings.

1 Samuel 10
This chapter describes Saul's anointing and the signs confirming his kingship, showing the fulfillment of God's word to Samuel.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
These verses outline God's guidelines for a king over Israel, emphasizing the king's need to follow God's law, which Saul would later struggle with.

Acts 13:21-22
This passage reflects on Saul's reign and God's eventual choice of David, providing a New Testament perspective on Saul's kingship.