1 Samuel 10

 1 Samuel 10 is a significant chapter in the Old Testament, detailing Saul’s anointing as the first king of Israel, signs confirming his kingship, and his public selection before the people. Below is an in-depth explanation of the chapter.

---

1 Samuel 10: A Detailed Explanation

1. Saul’s Anointing (Verse 1)

The chapter begins with the prophet Samuel taking a flask of oil and pouring it over Saul’s head, anointing him as the leader over God’s inheritance—Israel. This act of anointing is crucial because it signifies God’s choice and consecration of Saul as king. In ancient Israel, anointing with oil was symbolic of God’s blessing and empowerment for a particular task, especially for kings and priests.

Samuel’s words confirm Saul’s divine appointment:

“Has not the LORD anointed you ruler over His inheritance?”

This means Saul is not just a political leader but one entrusted with the responsibility of guiding God’s people according to divine will.

2. Signs Confirming Saul’s Kingship (Verses 2-8)

Samuel gives Saul a series of three prophetic signs that will confirm his calling:

1. Meeting Two Men Near Rachel’s Tomb (Verse 2)

   • Samuel tells Saul that he will meet two men near Rachel’s tomb in Zelzah. They will inform him that his father’s lost donkeys have been found and that his father is now worried about Saul.

   • This first sign reassures Saul that God is in control and taking care of his personal concerns so that he can focus on his divine calling.

2. Encounter with Three Men at the Oak of Tabor (Verses 3-4)

   • Saul will then meet three men on their way to worship at Bethel. They will be carrying three young goats, three loaves of bread, and a flask of wine.

   • They will offer Saul two loaves of bread, which he should accept.

   • This sign symbolizes divine provision and acceptance, signifying that Saul is now a participant in God’s work.

3. Meeting a Group of Prophets at Gibeah (Verses 5-7)

   • The third and most remarkable sign is Saul encountering a group of prophets coming down from the high place.

   • They will be prophesying, playing musical instruments (a lyre, tambourine, flute, and harp), and filled with the Spirit of God.

   • Samuel tells Saul that the Spirit of the LORD will come upon him powerfully, and he will prophesy with them, becoming “a different person.”

   • This transformation signifies God’s empowerment, preparing Saul for leadership.

Samuel concludes this section by instructing Saul to go to Gilgal and wait seven days for further guidance (verse 8).

3. The Fulfillment of the Signs (Verses 9-13)

As Saul leaves Samuel, everything happens just as the prophet foretold. The Spirit of God comes upon Saul, and he prophesies with the prophets.

People who knew Saul are astonished, asking,

“Is Saul also among the prophets?”

This question reflects their surprise at the radical change in Saul, highlighting the power of God’s transformation.

4. Saul’s Return Home and His Silence (Verses 14-16)

When Saul returns home, his uncle asks where he has been. Saul tells him about meeting Samuel but does not mention the anointing or kingship.

This silence might indicate Saul’s humility, uncertainty, or reluctance to embrace his new role fully.

5. Saul’s Public Selection as King (Verses 17-24)

Samuel gathers the Israelites at Mizpah and reminds them that they had rejected God as their king by demanding a human ruler. He then conducts a public selection process:

1. The tribes are called forward, and the tribe of Benjamin is chosen.

2. The family of Matri is selected from Benjamin.

3. Finally, Saul is chosen by lot.

However, Saul is nowhere to be found! He is hiding among the supplies, which might indicate his reluctance or fear of public responsibility. When he is brought forward, he stands taller than everyone else—a striking physical presence.

Samuel then declares:

“Do you see the man the LORD has chosen? There is no one like him among all the people.”

The people shout:

“Long live the king!”

Thus, Saul is publicly acknowledged as king.

6. Samuel’s Declaration and Saul’s Return (Verses 25-27)

Samuel explains the rights and duties of kingship, writes them in a scroll, and places it before the LORD.

Saul then returns home, accompanied by valiant men whose hearts God had touched. However, some troublemakers (referred to as “worthless men” or “sons of Belial”) reject Saul’s kingship, saying,

“How can this man save us?”

Saul remains silent, choosing not to react to their insults.

---

Key Themes and Lessons from 1 Samuel 10

1. God’s Sovereignty in Leadership

   • Saul’s anointing shows that God is the one who appoints leaders. His selection is confirmed through signs and fulfilled prophecies.

2. The Transforming Power of the Holy Spirit

   • When God’s Spirit comes upon Saul, he is changed into a different person, illustrating how God equips His chosen ones for their calling.

3. Human Reluctance and God’s Calling

   • Saul’s initial silence and hiding show that even when God calls someone, they may struggle with self-doubt. However, God provides confirmation and support.

4. Public Recognition and Opposition

   • While many accept Saul as king, some reject him. This foreshadows challenges that leaders often face. Saul’s decision to remain silent demonstrates wisdom in dealing with opposition.

5. God’s Warning Against Rejecting Him as King

   • Samuel reminds the Israelites that, in demanding a king, they have rejected God’s direct rule. This foreshadows the difficulties that will arise in Israel’s monarchy.

---

Conclusion

1 Samuel 10 is a pivotal chapter that marks the transition of Israel from a theocracy (led by God through prophets) to a monarchy (led by a human king). Saul’s anointing, the prophetic signs, and his public selection reveal God’s hand in leadership decisions. The chapter also highlights the challenges that come with accepting a divine calling, as Saul struggles with self-doubt and opposition.

Ultimately, this chapter teaches us about God’s guidance, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of trusting God’s plan even when we feel unworthy.