Topical Encyclopedia The renewal of Saul's kingdom by the prophet Samuel is a significant event in the history of Israel, marking a moment of reaffirmation and divine endorsement of Saul's kingship. This event is recorded in 1 Samuel 11, following Saul's initial anointing as king and his subsequent military victory over the Ammonites.Context and Background Saul, the first king of Israel, was chosen by God and anointed by Samuel, the last of the judges and a prophet of the Lord. Despite his anointing, Saul's kingship was not immediately accepted by all the tribes of Israel. The need for a united monarchy became evident when Nahash the Ammonite besieged Jabesh-gilead, threatening the Israelites with severe terms of surrender (1 Samuel 11:1-2). The Spirit of God and Saul's Leadership Upon hearing the plight of Jabesh-gilead, "the Spirit of God came powerfully upon Saul, and he burned with anger" (1 Samuel 11:6). Saul's response was decisive; he mustered the Israelites by sending out pieces of oxen as a call to arms, warning that the same would be done to the oxen of anyone who did not follow him and Samuel (1 Samuel 11:7). This act unified the people, and they rallied behind Saul, assembling a formidable force. Victory Over the Ammonites Saul led the Israelites to a resounding victory over the Ammonites, effectively lifting the siege of Jabesh-gilead. This military success solidified Saul's position as king and demonstrated his capability as a leader chosen by God. The victory also served as a catalyst for national unity, as the people recognized Saul's leadership and the Lord's favor upon him. Renewal at Gilgal Following the victory, Samuel called the people to Gilgal to renew the kingdom. At Gilgal, "all the people went to Gilgal, and there in the presence of the LORD they made Saul king" (1 Samuel 11:15). This ceremony was not merely a political formality but a spiritual reaffirmation of Saul's kingship under God's authority. Sacrifices of peace offerings were made, and the people rejoiced greatly, acknowledging Saul as their divinely appointed leader. Significance The renewal of Saul's kingdom at Gilgal was a pivotal moment in Israel's history. It marked the transition from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy under Saul's leadership. This event underscored the importance of divine guidance and approval in the governance of Israel, as well as the role of the prophet Samuel in mediating God's will to the people. The renewal also highlighted the conditional nature of Saul's kingship, as later events would reveal the necessity of obedience to God's commands for the continuation of his reign. Samuel's role in this renewal was crucial, as he acted as both a spiritual leader and a political figure, ensuring that the kingship was aligned with God's purposes for Israel. Nave's Topical Index 1 Samuel 11:12-15And the people said to Samuel, Who is he that said, Shall Saul reign over us? bring the men, that we may put them to death. Nave's Topical Index Library That the Employing Of, and Associating with the Malignant Party ... Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents The Barren Fig-Tree; Man's Chief End City of God How Christ is the Way in General, "I am the Way. " Saved by Grace; The Water of Life; A Traveler's Note-Book An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. Resources Who was Samuel in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the story of Hannah and Samuel? | GotQuestions.org Summary of the Book of 1 Samuel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.org Samuel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Samuel: A Judge (Leader) of Israel, his Judgment Seat at Beth-El, Gilgal, Mizpeh, and Ramah Samuel: A Prophet of the Israelites Samuel: Anoints David to be King Samuel: Anoints Saul to be King of Israel Samuel: Called up by the Witch of Endor Samuel: Consecrated to God Before his Birth Samuel: Death of; the Lament for Him Samuel: His Integrity As a Judge and Ruler Samuel: His Mother's Song of Thanksgiving Samuel: His Vision Concerning the House of Eli Samuel: Israelites Repent Because of his Reproofs and Warnings Samuel: Makes his Corrupt Sons Judges in Israel Samuel: Ministered in the House of God Samuel: Organizes the Tabernacle Service Samuel: People Desire a King; he Protests Samuel: Renews the Kingdom of Saul Samuel: Reproves Saul; Foretells That his Kingdom Will be Established Samuel: Shelters David While Escaping from Saul Samuel: The Philistines Defeated Through his Intercession and Sacrifices Related Terms |
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