An Introduction to 1 Samuel: The Rise of the Monarchy
The book of First Samuel marks a pivotal epoch in the history of Israel, bridging the tumultuous era of the Judges and inaugurating the age of the monarchy. Following centuries of decentralized leadership, where "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" (Judges 21:25), the nation yearned for stability and a king to lead them, "like all the nations" (1 Samuel 8:5). This desire, though seemingly pragmatic, revealed a deeper spiritual malaise – a rejection of God's direct rule. First Samuel masterfully chronicles this profound shift, introducing us to three towering figures: Samuel, the last of the judges and a great prophet; Saul, Israel's first king, chosen by human preference but ultimately rejected by God; and David, the shepherd boy, God's anointed successor, whose heart was "after his own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14). The narrative is a divine commentary on human leadership, obedience, and the sovereign will of God in shaping the destiny of His people.
The Spiritual Climate and the Call of Samuel
The opening chapters of 1 Samuel paint a bleak picture of Israel's spiritual state. The priesthood, under Eli, was corrupt, with his sons Hophni and Phinehas committing egregious sins, "for they made themselves vile, and he restrained them not" (1 Samuel 3:13). Amidst this moral decay, God raises up Samuel, born in answer to the fervent prayer of Hannah, a barren woman. His dedication to the Lord from infancy, and his early call by God, stand in stark contrast to the wickedness around him. Samuel’s life trajectory is one of prophetic integrity and judicial wisdom, serving as a vital bridge between the old order and the new. He is a prophet, priest, and judge, divinely appointed to guide Israel through this turbulent transition. His ministry signifies a fresh outpouring of God's word in a time when "the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision" (1 Samuel 3:1).
Israel's Demand for a King
As Samuel grew old, his sons, like Eli's, "walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment" (1 Samuel 8:3). This provided the elders of Israel with a pretext to demand a king. Their plea, "Now make us a king to judge us like all the nations" (1 Samuel 8:5), deeply troubled Samuel. The Lord, however, revealed to Samuel the true nature of their request: "they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them" (1 Samuel 8:7). This moment is critical, highlighting Israel's preference for visible, human leadership over the invisible, divine rule. God, in His sovereignty, permits their choice, but not without a stern warning from Samuel concerning the burdens and oppressions that a monarchy would bring (1 Samuel 8:10-18). This episode underscores a timeless spiritual principle: God often grants our desires, even when those desires stem from a lack of faith, allowing us to learn through the consequences.
The Anointing and Reign of Saul
In response to Israel's demand, God directs Samuel to anoint Saul, a Benjamite of imposing stature, as their first king. Saul’s initial humility is noteworthy: when sought, he was found "hid among the stuff" (1 Samuel 10:22). He began his reign with promising victories, notably against the Ammonites, uniting the tribes under his leadership. However, Saul’s reign quickly deteriorated due to his repeated disobedience.
His first major transgression occurred at Gilgal, where he impatiently offered a burnt offering himself, rather than waiting for Samuel, thereby usurping the priestly role. For this, Samuel declared, "Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. But now thy kingdom shall not continue" (1 Samuel 13:13-14).
His second major failure involved the Amalekites. God commanded Saul to utterly destroy them, "both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass" (1 Samuel 15:3). Saul, however, spared King Agag and the best of the livestock, claiming it was for sacrifice. Samuel’s famous rebuke followed:
Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.
This act sealed Saul's rejection by God, leading to the departure of the Spirit of the Lord from him and the torment of an "evil spirit from the LORD" (1 Samuel 16:14). Saul's tragic decline serves as a powerful testament to the consequences of disobedience and the danger of prioritizing human wisdom or popularity over divine command.
The Emergence of David: A Man After God's Own Heart
While Saul's reign spiraled into spiritual darkness and paranoia, God was already preparing His chosen successor. Samuel was sent to Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse's sons. After rejecting all of Jesse's older, outwardly impressive sons, God revealed His true criterion: "Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). Thus, David, the youngest shepherd boy, was chosen and anointed.
David's entry into public life was dramatic, marked by his courageous defeat of Goliath, the Philistine giant (1 Samuel 17). This victory catapulted him to national fame and into Saul's court, initially as a musician to soothe Saul's tormented spirit. However, Saul's jealousy soon turned to murderous rage, forcing David to flee and live as a fugitive for many years. Despite being hunted by Saul, David consistently refused to harm God's anointed, demonstrating profound respect for the office of the king, even if the man holding it was deeply flawed. His trust in God's timing and sovereignty during this period of intense trial is a hallmark of his character.
Key Themes and Lasting Lessons
First Samuel is rich with theological insights relevant for all believers:
Conclusion: Laying the Foundation for a Kingdom
The book of First Samuel is far more than a historical account of Israel's transition to monarchy. It is a profound theological narrative that sets the stage for the entire Old Testament's understanding of kingship, laying the groundwork for the Davidic covenant and ultimately pointing to the eternal King, Jesus Christ. It teaches us about the perils of human ambition, the necessity of obedience, and the unwavering faithfulness of God to His redemptive plan. Through the contrasting lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, we witness the divine hand at work, shaping a nation and preparing the lineage through which the true King would one day arise to establish a kingdom that shall have no end. It is a testament to God's patient yet firm hand, guiding His people towards His ultimate purposes, even through their own flawed choices.