Begin this session by reading Scripture and answering questions to reflect on the selected Bible verses.
What motivates the Israelites to want a king? Why does God say they want a king?
What does God say the king will be like? Will it be a good change for the nation or a bad one?
A “tenth” is usually set aside for God as tithe, but Samuel tells the people that the king will take a tenth of their property. What does Samuel seem to be saying about the king?
If God is opposed to appointing a king, why does He tell Samuel to anoint a new king over them?
Are the qualities that Saul had the things the Israelites needed in a king?
Based on this account, do you think Saul is an effective king or not? Do you think the people are pleased with him?
What happens in this passage? What does Saul do that is so wrong? Why do you think he offered the sacrifice?
What happened to Jonathan, Saul’s son, in this passage? In what ways do you see an absence of compassion?
The book of Samuel focused on the creation of the monarchy (the office of the king) in Israel and the lives of these three leaders:
The book of Samuel showed us that Israel’s monarchy was corrupt and the Israelites‘ desire for a king was born from their rejection of God. The stories of Saul and David reinforce Samuel‘s portrayal of the monarchy in a negative light.
God always seeks the best for us. In this session, we saw this when the Israelites sought a king. God didn’t agree with their bad decision, but He still wanted them to have the best king possible. God demonstrated benevolence and love, even when the Israelites opposed Him.
Recalling Samuel’s words in 1 Samuel 8, what does recognizing God as King in our lives look like? In what ways do you try to replace God as King?
The key problem faced by Saul and David was the use of power for their own selfish gains. In what ways are you tempted to do the same in your family, relationships, work places, or even economically?
Recalling the interaction between David and Nathan, how can you be a “Nathan” in the lives of others? Like David, do you have any spiritual blind spots?