April 18, 2025 • 47 mins
Chapter 01 of Heroes in the Bible: David with Dr. Tony Evans is inspired by 1 Samuel 8-10.
A Rejected God - The rebellious children of Israel continue to thrive under the gracious protection of their God. However, their hearts crave slavery, and they desire a king to rule over them instead of the Lord who has saved them. God gives them what they ask for, but is it what they need?
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Psalm 23:4-5, Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil. My cup runs over.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for the Heroes
in the Bible podcast. Before we begin, be sure to
follow this podcast on Apple or Spotify so that you're
updated on the newest episodes as they become available. So
where do we begin, Well, we do not begin with
David at all. In fact, his name isn't even mentioned
(00:22):
until later. First, we will begin this in every story
with a prelude, a tale from another point in time
that carries hidden messages for us. Then we will begin
our journey by meeting an old prophet named Samuel. He
is the final judge of Israel, task with finding a
king for the fallen children of God. The first King
(00:44):
of Israel seems on the outside to be noble, strong
and worthy of the throne. But there is only one
worthy to sit on the throne. There is only one
true King of Israel.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
Prelude to chapter one. It was a brutal and agonizing slaughter.
The men of Israel were thrown around like dogs of
the hands of the Philistines. Their blades thrust through Israelite,
fleshed swiftly and without mercy. There was no hope for
them to recover their position. Every man was doomed to
either die under the sword of the enemy or flee
(01:23):
like cowards into the wilderness. Thirty thousand soldiers of the
Lord's army lay dead in the valley, with crows pecking
at their rotting flesh in the hot sun. They had
begun the battle hopeful. Their swords were sharpened and their
armor glimmered in the sunlight. After several defeats to the Philistines,
they chose to bring in the Ark of the Covenant,
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the manifest presence of God and a symbol of his
companionship with the nation of Israel. They shouted war cries
of victory as they paraded the Ark of God before
the Philistines. They had lost many battles and decided to
use God's presence as a tool of fear and boasting.
They thought if they had the Ark of the Covenant
(02:05):
in battle with them, that God would somehow condone their arrogance.
They wanted the appearance of holy strength without the devotion
to the one who was holy and strong. They were
gravely mistaken. Their songs of victory quickly turned into agonizing screams,
and the Ark of God stood in the midst of
the battle overlooking the downfall of Israel. God would not
(02:27):
give favor to the proud exploits of selfish men. He
would not grant Israel victory, but allow them to sit
in the results of their arrogance. The Ark rested on
a hill above the battlefield, ready to be taken by
the enemy. The Philistines plowed through Israel's defenses and made
their way to the Ark. They had once trembled in
fear at the thought of Israel's God. He was the
(02:49):
God who defeated Egypt and parted sees. Yet the high
of vanquishing their enemy had left them a reverent. They
took the Ark to the city of Ashdod, leaving behind
and thousands of dead Israelite bodies. They placed it in
the temple of Dagon, one of their many gods. The
Philistines made a mockery of God by placing him at
(03:10):
the altar of their god. In their pride, they deceived
themselves into thinking they had defeated the God of Israel.
They too, were gravely mistaken. The Philistines awoke to the
statue of Dagon laying down at the feet of the Ark,
with its head and hands cut clean off. God would
not bow to a man made image. God's hand was
(03:31):
heavy against the Philistines. The people of Astad broke out
in cancerous tumors. Strong men were utterly undone by the
very presence of God in their city. Afraid, they sent
the Ark to another Philistine city, Gath. They too were
given the kiss of death, having tumors boiled up from within,
which killed the strongest men among them. Every city God
(03:53):
was brought to, the people were afflicted. They feared the
presence of the Ark. Out of fear, the Ark was
returned to his life. Despite Israel's pride and arrogance, God
was able to vanquish their enemy. No army, no commander,
and no king could ever replace the almighty hand of God.
He was their defender, not their trophy. He was their Lord,
(04:17):
not their magician. The people of Israel were in desperate
need of guidance and humility. They needed a leader to
transform their hearts and connect them to the righteous heart
of God. The Lord would raise up such a leader. However,
he would not be the leader they expected.
Speaker 1 (04:35):
Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David, a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
few people know David the man. What we are about
to explore in this epic adventure of a man after
(04:56):
God's own heart. But this adventure is not without its tragedy.
David's life is a glorious reminder it is better to
have a heart of gold than a sword of steel. However,
David's life is also a warning the glory of a
man is fleeting, but the glory of God is forever.
The ultimate beauty of David's story is that it's not
(05:18):
really about David at all, but God. As the legend
of the Giant Slayer unfolds, we will see that he
is not really the main character of this saga. He
is not the ultimate hero, the mighty King, or the
promised deliverer people hope for. David is but a shadow
of things promised. His story is a whisper in the
(05:41):
wind for telling of an even greater hero to come.
David's story, in its essence, foreshadows the story of Jesus.
He is merely a fractured image of the greatness that
awaits humanity in Christ. As this epic unfolds, look past
the glamour of war, and see into the future. With
(06:02):
every twist and turn of David's life, look for the
promise of greater redemption.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Chapter one. A rejected God, Samuel sat beside the fire,
watching the emverse slowly shrinked under the cold sky. The
red coals reflected in the eyes of his sons, Joel
and Abijah. The three of them meditated in silence, allowing
the wintry bite of knight to enter their lungs. The
young men shivered in place, but their father remained motionless.
(06:33):
His brow was furrowed and concentrated. He was straining for
answers from God. He had judged Israel faithfully and acted
as a representative of his will to the people for
many years, yet now his time as their leader was
drawing to a close. Like many judges before him, he
had held the honor of ministering to God's people. He
was not their ruler or their king. He was simply
(06:55):
a man to look to as an example and a
person to intercede on the people's behalf. God had raised
up many judges before him. Some were men and women
of valor and wisdom, like off Neil and Dinah. Others
were unassuming like Gideon or brash like Samson. Each served
their own purpose, and each were used by God to
deliver his people from harm. Yet it was always God
(07:16):
who saved them. It was always God who led them
and kept them safe. A few of the coals popped,
waking Samuel from his trance. He looked up at his
shivering sons. Their breath could be seen like smoke in
the frigid air. He peered at them through the flames
and poked the coals with his staff.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
Are you able to keep the coals burning?
Speaker 2 (07:35):
Samuel asked. His voice was deep and sonorous. Even in
his old age, his voice maintained its resonant authority. It
was as if the words of God float out of
his mouth from a deep cavern. Joel and Abija looked
at each other and sparked. They had hoped this day
would come. Their father was going to appoint them as
judges over Israel. The two of them sat up dutifully
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and nodded.
Speaker 4 (07:57):
We are Father. You may rest short that God's people
will be cared for.
Speaker 2 (08:02):
Samuel looked at them intently and nodded. His face was
impassive and unreadable. He took the end of his staff
and poked a burning coal.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
A coal can burn as long as it lives within
the flame.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
Samuel said. His sons watched as he nudged the coal
away from the fire. Its flame disappeared almost immediately, and
its red hue slowly faded. Within moments. Samuel picked up
the warm coal and handed it to his sons.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
Keep the coal in the flame, he said.
Speaker 2 (08:31):
With those words, he commissioned his sons to judge over Israel.
It was unorthodox for a son to take the place
of his father as judge. It was typically God who
chose his heroes and rose them up. However, Israel was
at a crossroads. Their ongoing conflict with the Philistines left
them vulnerable, and they were in need of strong leaders
to guide them. Joel and Abijah took on the mantle
(08:53):
of judge with enthusiasm, yet their hearts were filled with
selfish ambition. Their lust for power and greed had found
their vision, making them a reverent of the sacred position
given to them. Months passed, and the already corrupt people
of Israel had grown tired of Joel and Abijah as judges.
They received bribes from wealthy criminals to turn the blind
(09:15):
eye to their crimes. They bent the law of God
to serve their own selfish purposes and allowed the weak
and helpless of the community to suffer. They could not
have been more different than their father Samuel. Their perverted
sense of justice had caused a great deal of suffering
for the twelve tribes of Israel. All the elders from
all twelve tribes met in Rama to discuss and debate
(09:37):
the future of their country. They are a disgrace, one
of the elders exclaimed. The flames flickered loudly and swayed
to the breeze coming in from the window. The room
was large and arrayed with handwoven wool rugs and tapestries.
Each elder reclined in his place, listening to each other's please.
Speaker 3 (09:55):
Joel has been bought by some of the most powerful
and corrupt men in our nation. Abaijah takes the bribes
gladly and fills his stomach with foreign meats and wines.
Who appointed these men as judges over us? They have
no heart, they have no strength.
Speaker 2 (10:13):
Another declared, other.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Nations have strong kings over them. They are men of
power and authority. Another shouted, we have no one to
lead us. That is why we keep losing our battles
to the Philistines. That is why we lost the ark.
Speaker 2 (10:30):
The men stirred in the room into the night. They
complained about the state of their nation. In all their ramblings,
they did not pray. They did not bow and cry
out to God for help. In the corner of the room,
listening silently to the grumblings of the elders, was Samuel.
He reclined with his back pressed against the wall and
his staff firmly set in his hands, propping him up.
(10:52):
He listened, but he did not look at them. His
eyes were set solely on one call that had fallen
beside the fire. As the elder shouted, the coals bright
red hue, dimmed and fizzled out. Samuel looked up to
see all twelve elders watching him. Samuel, they said.
Speaker 3 (11:09):
Your sons do not walk as you do. They are
dishonorable and filled with greed. They do not possess what
we need to thrive as a nation. The time has
come for you to appoint a king.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
Samuel stood upright and puffed at his chest. His eyes
darted at them with righteous anger. Although Samuel was all
and well advanced in years, he still carried himself with authority.
The spirit of God came upon him, and the elder
stepped back in fear when they sensed him.
Speaker 3 (11:39):
Is not the Lord your king? Has he not delivered
you time and time again?
Speaker 2 (11:44):
Samuel asked sternly. The elders shrunk back at Samuel's questioning.
Speaker 3 (11:49):
We no longer want random judges rising up to protect us.
We desire a king to lead us into battle and
create the law of the land.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Samuel was teeming with anger. He stormed out of the
room and stepped outside. The stars were set firmly in
the skies. He looked up and considered the promise made
by Moses long ago.
Speaker 3 (12:11):
The Lord your God will raise up for you a
prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must
listen to him.
Speaker 2 (12:19):
He thought about the ultimate prophet God would raise up
to lead them. He longed for his coming and prayed
for it. Samuel knew that there could be no king
that would lead them like God could with compassion, strength, mercy,
and justice. Samuel fell to his knees and gripped the
grass with his fists. He prayed for answers. He knew
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the elders would not relent with their requests. He felt
the great sense of rejection from them, even though it
was his son's not him, they were rejecting. A gentle
breeze slid down the hill and over Samuel's shoulder. In
the quietness of night, he heard the voice of God.
Speaker 5 (12:57):
Speak, give them what they have asked for, he said.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
Samuel cocked his head in confusion.
Speaker 5 (13:05):
Obey the voice of the people. In all their request
of you, they have not rejected you, Samuel. They have
rejected me from being king over them. From the day
I brought them out of slavery in Egypt. They have
forsaken me and sought after other gods.
Speaker 2 (13:30):
Since the very beginning. They have left me for others.
Samuel's eyes filled with tears as he heard the heart
of God. The Lord had done so much for them,
yet they desired another to lead them. A king was
just another golden calf to them, a counterfeit replacement for God.
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The wind whistled down slope hills and whipped up dust
around Samuel. He heard God speak again, saying, obey the people.
Only solemnly warned them, and tell them what will happen
if they appoint a king. The next day, Samuel stood
in front of the elders and a multitude of people.
(14:11):
Thousands of people flocked to demand a king. One of
the elders stepped forward to speak, but Samuel raised his
hand to silence him. He walked to the platform in
front of the people and sat.
Speaker 3 (14:23):
So you want a king, he asked.
Speaker 2 (14:26):
They nodded in response. Samuel dipped his head and sighed,
you say you want a king, fair enough. I will
tell you what a king will do. He will take
your sons and draft them to ride his chariots and
polish his armory. They will ride into battle before him
and die brutally before he even enters the battlefield. He
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will appoint commanders of thousands, hundreds, and fifties. They will
parade themselves in the streets like gods and require your
unwavering subservience to their egos. He will appoint others to
plow his ground and reap his harvest, to prepare food
for his vast armies. The blacksmiths will be taken to
make tools of war, and your daughters will be taken
(15:11):
to cook for his men. You and your family will
labor hard in the fields, vineyards, and olive groves. But
he will tax you and give it to his servants.
He will take a tenth of your grain, your wine,
and your money to fund his officers, councilmen, and servants.
He will recruit the best of your male and female workers.
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He will take the best of your live stock and
breed your donkeys to put them to work. And after
this precious king of yours has created a nation and
army that revolves around his own personal economy, you will
find yourselves with less grain, lost sons, and taxed income.
Then you will cry out to God to deliver you
from this king that you have chosen, But he will
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not answer you, because it is what you have asked for.
This is what a king will do. Do you understand.
The elders sat in silence for a long time. They
looked at each other, considering what Samuel had just said. Finally,
they all nodded in agreement and stood up.
Speaker 3 (16:14):
Give us a king, Samuel, they said, we need to
compete with other nations. We need someone to fight our battles.
Speaker 2 (16:22):
Every person stood and shouted for a king. Samuel's eyes
lifted to heaven. He closed his eyes, listening for the
voice of God. Obey their voice. Give them a king,
he said. Samuel could sense the heart of a rejected God. However,
he knew that the Lord of heaven and Earth would
never agree without a plan for redemption in mind. Samuel
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stood high and lifted his arms in the air.
Speaker 3 (16:47):
Go every man to his own city, he shouted, I
shall search for your king.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
Residing in the grassy plains rolling through the region of
Benjamin was the house of kingsh a wealthy Benjamined farmer
and merchant. His land had been passed down from his
great great grandfather and stretched far towards the border of
Ephriam under the harsh eastern sun. Working on a broken
fence near the stables was Saul, the son of Kish.
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His broad shoulders lifted a brand new post and lodged
it into the hole in the ground. Sweat gripped from
his head down the curves of his back muscles. He
picked up the posts that had been broken the night
before and rested it on his shoulder. He carried it
down to the woodpile to make firewood. He picked up
his axe and began to chop. A few of the
young women slowly passed by with pails of water resting
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over their heads. It was a daily ritual to watch
Saul work. He stood a head taller than all the
other men in his tribe. Not only was he broad
and strong, but he was also handsome and well liked.
Even women from the other tribes knew of the handsome
and strapping son of Kish. Saul continued to chop the
post into smaller pieces, pretending not to notice the wandering
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eyes of women passing from the well. He smirked, rose
the axe above his head, and swung down with force
and grace. Just as he was about to finish, saw
heard a call from his father's house.
Speaker 6 (18:11):
Saul Kiss shouted, what is the meaning of this?
Speaker 2 (18:14):
Saul looked up to see his father touching the new
wooden post he had dug into the ground. Saul wiped
his brow and left his axe lodged into the wood.
Speaker 6 (18:22):
The donkeys somehow broke the fence.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Father, Saul replied, gesturing to the broken post he was chopping.
Speaker 6 (18:28):
I've repaired the fence, but many of the donkeys seemed
to have gone missing.
Speaker 2 (18:34):
Kish nodded and looked in the distance.
Speaker 4 (18:36):
Let's hope they haven't gone far. Quick take one of
the young workers and go look for the donkeys.
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Saul nodded, put on a shirt, and gathered a few
of his belongings, a newly tanned water skin, some dried figs, bread,
and a seal of his father's ownership over the donkeys.
He and the servant Tabby made their way up the
hill country surrounding his father's estate. They soon realized the
donkeys must have ventured farther into the next region. They
pressed forward to the hill country of Ephriam. It was
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lush with new spring blooms, and the gentle midday breeze
carried the fragrance of wildflowers. Saul stretched his arms wide
and took a deep breath. He was pleased to be
away from his father's home, even if it was for
a tedious task like tracking donkeys. Saul and his servant
walked through Shaali, Shah, and Shalim, inquiring about the missing donkeys.
(19:27):
Everyone was eager to speak to Saul, for he held
a good reputation in the land as a skilled fighter
and charismatic personality. The women especially enjoyed his company. In
every town Saul walked into, he had many eyes fixed
on him. He carried himself humbly, but in his heart
of hearts, he'd loved the attention. The donkeys were neither
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in Shai Shah or Shalim, so Saul and Tabby hiked
beyond the hills into zoph The sun had begun its
descent from the highest place in the sky, and Saul
knew they had only a certain amount of daylight left.
You'd return, Saul murmured, Come let us return before my
father becomes more concerned about us than the donkeys. Tavvy
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took a look around and held up his hand to
block the sun. He pointed to the nearby city nestled
in the hillside. I know this place, Tavvy said, excitedly.
Speaker 4 (20:17):
One of the merchants told me there is a man
of God here in the city. He is held in
high esteem. According to him, everything he says comes to pass.
Speaker 6 (20:25):
Would such a prophet care about a few donkeys, Saul.
Speaker 4 (20:29):
Scoffed, How would we know if we do not ask?
Speaker 6 (20:32):
Tavvy jested, we are ready here.
Speaker 4 (20:34):
What is the harm in spending another hour finding him?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
Saul looked down at the city and shrugged.
Speaker 6 (20:40):
What do we have to bring him? We have no
offering to give him for his services. Tavvy looked despondent
for a moment, but quickly raised his head in realization, Ah,
I may have something. Tavy reached into the bottom of
his sack and pulled out a small piece of cloth.
It was tattered and stained, and as Tavy unfolded it
could see a quarter of a shekel of silver.
Speaker 4 (21:02):
I've had this for a while, said Tabby. I will
give it to the seer and he will tell us
what we need to know.
Speaker 2 (21:08):
Saul was amazed at Tavvy. He, being only a worker
in his father's household, was willing to lay down a
very precious sum of money so they might retrieve the donkeys.
It warmed his heart, and he ordered him too much
to refuse his generosity.
Speaker 6 (21:22):
Well done, Tavy, Let us go into the city and
inquire about this man of God.
Speaker 2 (21:29):
The two men made their way down the slopes of
the hills outside the city until they came upon a well.
Several young women were drawing water into large clay jars
trapped to brons to carry them down the hill. Saul
leaned against the stone perimeter of the well and met
one of the women's gaze.
Speaker 6 (21:44):
Greetings, sister, Saul said.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
Joyfully, His smile was charming and bright. It caught the
young woman off guard, causing her to still water on
her garment. She blushed and began to frantically dry off.
The other women giggled. Saul handed her a clack sack.
We are here to speak with the Seer, a man
of God.
Speaker 5 (22:05):
Is he here?
Speaker 2 (22:06):
The woman blushed and smiled.
Speaker 7 (22:08):
Oh, yes, she said, he is just ahead of you,
but you must be swift. He has only come to
the city because the people have a sacrifice today in
the high Place. I have no doubt if you enter
the city, people will be able to tell you where
he is. The people do not eat until he comes
down from the sacrifice. After he returns, all who are
(22:28):
invited to feast with him eat.
Speaker 2 (22:30):
Saul bowed in gratitude and made his way to the
city entrance. As he entered, he stumbled upon an old
man draped in robes.
Speaker 6 (22:38):
Sir, do you know where I might be able to
find the Seer.
Speaker 2 (22:43):
Samuel looked up at the tall and handsome man standing
before him. His shoulders were set backwards, puffing out his
large chest and tight stomach. His beard was perfectly trimmed
up to his rich dark hair. He had the frame
of a warrior and the deep voice of a commander.
Before he could answer the young man, the Lord whispered.
Speaker 5 (23:01):
In his ear. Here is the man of whom I
spoke to you, Samuel. This is the man who will
restrain my people.
Speaker 2 (23:11):
Just a day prior, God had spoken to Samuel, saying.
Speaker 5 (23:14):
Tomorrow, at this time, I will send you a man
from the tribe of Benjamin. You shall anoint him to
be king over my people Israel. He shall save them
from the hand of the Philistines, just as the people
have wanted.
Speaker 2 (23:32):
Samuel said nothing. He scanned the man from his toes
to the top of his head. Everything about Saul's appearance
was kingly. Even his voice had a resounding tone to it.
Samuel gave a brief smile and said.
Speaker 3 (23:46):
I am the Seer.
Speaker 2 (23:48):
Saul looked perplexed when he answered. Samuel wore no extravagant
robes or necklace of jewels. He seemed on the outside
to be an ordinary old man. However, when he spoke,
there was power and authority behind his words. Samuel began
to walk away and gestured for Saul and Tabby to follow.
Speaker 3 (24:06):
Come with me, the old prophet said, go into the
high place where I have made the sacrifice. There you
will share a meal with me, and in the morning
I shall tell you what you need to know.
Speaker 2 (24:18):
Saul was taken back by the prophet's invitation. He treated
him as if he had met him before.
Speaker 6 (24:24):
Great Seeer. All I have come to ask is.
Speaker 3 (24:26):
Your donkeys are fine and well, Saul's son.
Speaker 2 (24:29):
Of Kish, Samuel interrupted.
Speaker 3 (24:31):
They were found shortly after you departed on your journey.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Saul and Tabby looked at each other in dismay. How
did this man already know their needs? Samuel sensed their
discomfort and ignored it. He spoke matter of factly, saying.
Speaker 3 (24:45):
There are other matters to discuss, for you are the
one whom all of Israel has been pining after.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Saul halted and stopped following Samuel, Why are you speaking
to me this way? Saul asked, I am surely not
worthy to eat with you? Or have you say these
things to me? Am I not from the tribe of Benjamin,
the least of the tribes of Israel, and my father
is from the most humble of clans in Benjamin. I
(25:12):
am nobody. I am not worthy. Saul's false humility did
not fool Samuel. His father was a rich and prominent
man in the tribe of Benjamin. Surely he did not
feel unworthy, but only that he needed to accept the
invitation with humility. Samuel took note of this and continued
to guide the two men to a high place for
a meal. Saul entered the large home on the top
(25:35):
of the hill. Torches laced the perimeter of a large
dining hall, where thirty gats reclined at a long wooden table.
The smell of cooked meat and herbs filled the room,
and Saul had finally realized how hungry he really was.
Samuel led him to the front of the table. On
his way, many men greeted Saul and introduced themselves. Saul
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bowed in humility, being sure to have Samuel notice his modesty.
Samuel sat at the seat right at the head of
the table. He then gestured for Saul to sit at
the very head. It was an astonishing gesture to have
a stranger sit at the head of your table. It
was reserved for the host or a guest of great
honor or royalty. Saul was confused by Samuel's hospitality and
(26:18):
wondered what the old prophet was thinking. Although Samuel gave
Saul the most esteemed place of the table and the
best portions of food, his face remained impassive. He seemed
almost apathetic to his presence. Instead of engaging with Saul,
he simply leaned back and listened to others asking questions.
Saul could not help but think he was being tested.
(26:41):
That night, Samuel led Saul and his servant down the
hill back into the city. The light of day had disappeared,
and the moon's silvery light guided the men to Samuel's
temporary home. I have made a place for you to sleep,
Samuel said. Rest here for.
Speaker 3 (26:54):
The night, and tomorrow I will send you off.
Speaker 2 (26:57):
A bed had been made for Saul on the roof.
A single lamp was lit at the head of it.
He bound to Samuel with gratitude and tucked into bed.
Tavy slept not too far away on the other side
of the rooftop. Saul lay awake, looking at the moon
that night. His heart beat fast in anticipation for the
next morning. He did not know why, but he felt
(27:17):
as if his life was about to change forever. Dawn
broke over the hills, scattering light across the green plains.
The darkness of night was slowly melting away above Saul's head.
When he felt the prodding of Samuel's foot on his shoulder.
Saul looked up to see the old man standing over him.
Speaker 3 (27:34):
Arise, Saul, it is time for you to return home.
Speaker 2 (27:37):
Saul rubbed his eyes and stretched. There was a tinge
of disappointment. He was sure that there had been some
reason for Samuel's hospitality. Saul did not want to leave
without an explanation. The three of them walked towards the gate.
The morning light had spread slowly across the horizon and
people were beginning to emerge from their homes to start
their day. Saul watched merchants set out their shops and
(28:00):
women to part with jars to the well. As they
approached the gates, Samuel tugged on Saul's robe.
Speaker 3 (28:06):
Remain here for a moment, Saul, and tell your servant
to continue. You'll catch up to him.
Speaker 2 (28:11):
Saul did as he was told, so it was just
him and the prophet standing alone. Samuel led them both
by the stream that curved around the city sid he
said shortly. Saul took a seat on a smooth stone
at the edge of the water. Samuel took a flask
of oil out of his robe and removed the top.
Saul watched curiously as the old prophet whispered into the
(28:32):
oil and closed his eyes. He was praying, but not
in the way Saul had known prayer. Samuel was speaking
to God as if he was dwelling within his own
heart and mind. He noticed his hands holding the flask.
Most men his age had trembling hands. They were unsteady
and shaking. However, Samuel's hands were not trembling. They held
(28:54):
the oil firmly, purposefully, raising the flask above Saul's head.
As the prophet prayed, Saul could feel the oil being
poured onto his head. The fragrant oil dripped down Saul's
hair and shoulders. Samuel grabbed his face and kissed his forehead.
He looked at him with an intense gaze and said.
Speaker 3 (29:12):
The Lord has anointed you, Saul. You shall reign over
God's people. You will save them from the enemies that
rage at their borders and seek their heads. This oil
shall be assigned to you. That the Lord has anointed
you and called you over his children.
Speaker 2 (29:30):
Saul looked up at Samuel with watery eyes. He was
without words, and unable to keep his hands from shaking,
He could not help but smile and shake his head.
Speaker 3 (29:40):
How can this be, he whispered, Arise, Samuel said, depart
from me to day and return towards the house of
your father. On your way, you will meet two men.
They will inform you that your father's donkeys have been found.
After this, you will go further until you reach the
Oak of Tabor. There three men will be going up
(30:02):
to make sacrifices to God at Bethel. One will be
carrying three young goats, the other will have three loaves
of bread, and the other will carry a skin of wine.
These men will greet you and give you two loaves
of bread for your journey.
Speaker 6 (30:17):
Why are you telling me these things, Saul asked.
Speaker 3 (30:21):
If I did not tell you, they would simply be
random happenings on the road back home. Since I have
told you these things will happen, it gives my words
more weight When they come to pass. This is your
confirmation that the Lord has made you king. After these things,
you shall go to Gibethe Elohim, where there is a
garrison of enemy Philistines currently stationed. As soon as you
(30:44):
come near the city, you will meet a group of
prophets coming down from the high place with harms, tambourines, flutes,
and liars.
Speaker 2 (30:51):
Samuel paused for a moment and bent down to Saul.
His eyes met his, and they were locked for what
seemed like minutes.
Speaker 3 (30:58):
The spirit of the Lord Lord is moving, Saul.
Speaker 2 (31:01):
Samuel gestured to the rushing stream beside them.
Speaker 3 (31:04):
He is moving and rushing like these waters. He will
rush upon you, and you will prophesy to these men.
As you worship and pray, you will feel yourself change
into a new man.
Speaker 2 (31:18):
Saul gulped and nodded. He was unsure of how to
receive what Samuel was telling him. He felt honored and
terrified at the same time. He closed his eyes and
took a deep breath. He opened his eyes and looked
at Samuel intently. What will come after this, he asked.
Samuel lifted Sol up to his feet and grabbed his shoulders.
(31:39):
Do what you see fit, he responded. God is with you.
He will guide you. However, you will be expected to
meet me at Gilgo. I am coming down to offer
a sacrifice. You will wait seven days, and then I
shall tell you what to do. So Samuel dismissed Saul,
and everything he had declared came to pass. With each
(32:00):
passing sign, Saul felt his heart changing. The confirmation of
God's calling on his life began to create genuine humility
and awe on him. As he marched up the hill
to worship with the prophets, he felt a rush of
God's spirit upon him. He began to proclaim the justice, mercy,
and goodness of God, and all who knew Saul previously
(32:20):
stood in amazement. After his long journey, With a transformed
heart resounding within him like a trumpet, Saul returned home.
The sun was setting, and Saul could feel the favor
of God going before him with every step. He had
always walked taller than the rest of his brothers, his
shoulders were always able to carry heavier loads, and his
(32:40):
legs could run longer distances. However, at this moment, Saul
had never felt so strong. The spirit of God had
anointed him, and he could feel within him a fire
burning for justice and righteousness. He entered past the gates
of his father's pastures, eager to tell them all that
had happened. He entered the warm home home where Stu
cooked over an open flame. Saul's uncle was sitting near
(33:03):
the embers, enjoying this savory aroma. Saul embraced his uncle
and sat down next to him.
Speaker 6 (33:09):
We departed to find the lost donkeys, he said, with
a smile. When we did not find them, we sought Samuel,
the prophet.
Speaker 2 (33:17):
His uncle leaned in close. His gaze was intense and serious.
Speaker 3 (33:21):
You met the man of God himself. He asked, what.
Speaker 6 (33:25):
Was he like? What did he tell you?
Speaker 2 (33:28):
Saul was about to answer, then he heard a coal
in the fire pop and fall off in the pit.
He stared at it, mesmerized by the flickering light. He
took his foot and flicked it back into the fire.
Saul looked at his uncle and chuckled.
Speaker 6 (33:44):
Ah. He told us plainly that the donkeys had been found,
So we made our way back here a waste of time.
Speaker 2 (33:53):
After this, Saul sat down and enjoyed a meal with
his family. He did not tell any one of his
encounter with the prophet. He allowed the truth of God
to simmer in his heart for a little longer. Samuel
stood once again in front of the Elders of Israel,
the twelve elders, each representing the twelve tribes came before him,
eagerly awaiting a response to their demands.
Speaker 3 (34:16):
Have you found us a king?
Speaker 5 (34:17):
They asked.
Speaker 2 (34:19):
Samuel's eyes darted forward.
Speaker 5 (34:21):
He scoffed, you.
Speaker 3 (34:22):
Mean, have I found you a slave master you so
desperately desire. No, I've done nothing. However, the Lord, in
his mercy, has decided to give you the desires of
your hearts, even if they do lead you down a
treacherous path.
Speaker 2 (34:38):
The elders ignored Samuel's disdain and awaited an actual answer
to their question. Samuel rubbed his temple and said, go
to your tribes.
Speaker 3 (34:47):
Every man, woman and child shall meet me at Mizpah.
Be sure that everyone is present, for the Lord will
reveal his chosen king.
Speaker 2 (34:57):
The men left excitedly, but Samuel was still by their
unrepentant hearts. Even after meeting Saul, he remained resolute that
a king was a bad decision. To accept a king
was to reject their God. However, as the Lord commanded,
Samuel went before the people at Mizpah. Samuel scanned the
(35:17):
sea of faces before him. Hundreds of thousands hung in suspense,
waiting for the last judge of Israel to proclaim a
new era of rule in Israel. Samuel rose his hands
up high to silence the crowd. The silent tension was
thick enough to cut with a knife. Out of the quietude,
Samuel spoke with a trumpeting voice of a prophet, saying.
Speaker 3 (35:39):
Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, I am
the one who saved you from captivity in Egypt. I
delivered you from the grips of slavery in the kingdom
that oppressed you. But today you have rejected the God
who has saved you from so many calamities and distresses,
(36:00):
asked for a king to replace him.
Speaker 2 (36:03):
A soft breeze came up behind Samuel. It cooled his
heightened anger towards the people. He breathed in deeply and said.
Speaker 3 (36:11):
Present yourselves before the Lord, by your tribes and by
your clans.
Speaker 2 (36:17):
Samuel watched as the people shifted and moved to organize
into clans and tribes. The eldest were sure to organize
and dictate where all should stand at attention. Saul was
clumped in among the tribe of Benjamin, in the tribe
of the Matrites. He watched as his brother and fellow
clansmen looked at one another eagerly. They wondered if they
were going to be selected. However, Saul knew what the
(36:39):
result would be, and he felt a sense of dread
fall upon him, not for the mantle of king, but
for the attention of all the people. Samuel reached into
his robes and pulled out a sack filled with twelve
smooth stones with markings carved into them. Each was distinctly
different from the other. They were lots, and often used
to determine the will of God. Samuel cast the lots
(37:01):
onto the floor. The stone of Benjamin was selected, so
he brought the tribe of Benjamin near. He organized them
by clans and cast lots again. The clan of the
Matrites was selected. Saul's heart began to pound in his
chest out of pure anxiety. Saul shifted his feet to
hide behind one of the carts filled with farming equipment.
(37:21):
Saul stood with his back against the cart, listening to
Samuel rejects several of the families within his clan. Finally,
the family of Kish was selected, and Saul heard Samuel
say his name, Saul. Where is Saul, Samuel asked. Saul
was frozen and placed behind the cart. He pounded the
back of his head against it, thinking about running. But
(37:44):
before he had a chance to run, a han grabbed
his shoulder. It was his uncle.
Speaker 6 (37:50):
Here he is.
Speaker 2 (37:51):
The people applauded as Saul walked towards the front where
Samuel was standing. They cheered and awed at how large
he was. They saw his broad sho shoulders and strong arms.
They saw his chisel jaw and dark beard. He was
everything they desired in a king. He had the appearance
of strength, He had the body of a king, and
they cared very little about the heart that dwelled within it.
(38:14):
Saul stepped up to the platform beside Samuel. The old
prophet bowed his head and gave a weary smile. He
turned to the crowd and pointed to Saul, saying.
Speaker 3 (38:23):
Look upon the one the Lord has chosen.
Speaker 2 (38:26):
A cacophony of praise erupted from the entire nation. The
sound of trumpets filled the air, and the shouts of
adoration flooded Saul's heart. The praise that was once given
to God was now thrust upon Saul.
Speaker 6 (38:40):
Long live the King, they shouted. Long Live King Saul.
Speaker 2 (38:47):
They proclaimed. As songs were sung and instruments were played,
A small voice emerged from within Saul's mind. Its whisper
was nearly silent, but sharp and powerful. Saul his own
pride was beginning to creep into his heart.
Speaker 1 (39:06):
Israel's first king has been chosen. The people wanted a
ruler to lead them, and Saul certainly seems to fit
the part. But one of the themes in this episode
is that looks can be deceiving. The prelude shows us
that you can't simply manufacture the favor of God and
force him to bless you. The people of Israel paraded
(39:26):
the Ark of the Covenant out like a weapon and
a sign of intimidation. They wanted the appearance of victory,
thinking it would somehow move the hand of God to
fight for them. They were gravely mistaken. Now we meet Saul,
a strapping young man with broad shoulders and a commanding presence.
He looked like a king, acts like a king, and
(39:47):
even carries himself with that false humility we see and
a lot of athletes and politicians. But what about his heart, Well,
we know nothing about his heart. In fact, his heart
for God isn't mentioned at all. Saul is this polished
image of what people think a king should look like.
But we have no idea what's going on in his
mind or heart? Is he passionate about God's people? Does
(40:12):
he take the law of God seriously? What about his
prayer life or willingness to yield when corrected? We know
none of these things, because Saul is meant to represent
the hollowness of worldly leaders, all image with no substance. Samuel, however,
knows better. He warns the people of Israel that the
(40:32):
office of king is flawed to begin with, since whoever
becomes king is going to be taking the place of
God in their lives. Up until now, Israel was ruled
by God and the elders of the tribes of Israel. Occasionally,
when Israel was in a bind, he would raise up
judges to save them. This system worked, and it continually
(40:52):
brought them back to God when things were difficult. They
relied on Him for everything, and He was always faithful Judges,
which took place right before this episode, revealed to us
the faithfulness of God despite human brokenness. Who is this
promised leader, prophet, and deliverer that is whispered about in
the prelude and by Samuel?
Speaker 3 (41:14):
Is it Saul?
Speaker 6 (41:15):
Is it?
Speaker 1 (41:16):
Going to be David. Asking these questions places us in
the minds of the early Hebrews. These people were in
constant anticipation of this promised leader spoken about by Moses
and foreshadowed in Genesis. They were eagerly waiting for a
chosen hero, hand picked by God to deliver them and
lead them. It stands to reason that at this point
(41:38):
in the story many Jews were thinking that Saul might
be the one. They will be disappointed, obviously, but honestly
they will be disappointed with David. As well as great
and mighty. As David becomes, he doesn't hold a candle
to God's true deliverer. One of the key themes in
this entire series is going to be that a greater
(41:59):
prophet than Samuel, a greater king than Saul, and a
greater hero than David is coming. But what is Israel
supposed to do while they wait for this great prophet?
Dozens of evil nations surround Israel, armored chariots, ridden by
warrior kings and legendary commanders who wouldn't be intimidated by that.
Israel wants to feel like they can measure up to
(42:22):
those other nations with a strong king to represent them
in battle, trade, and peace negotiations. The ancient world is
evolving and Israel can feel themselves falling behind. But there's
an issue with who they seek out for answers. They
don't seek God, sacrifice to him, or pray to him
for answers. Instead, they outsource the job to Samuel, expecting
(42:46):
him to figure it out for them. They don't want
to do the spiritual legwork it takes to get answers,
probably because they know what they are doing is wrong.
The elders of Israel ignore their responsibility to seek God
and give the task to Samuel. The elders also ignore
their responsibility to lead the people and give the tasks
to Saul. There is a perpetual shirking of duty in
(43:10):
exchange for the easy way. Unfortunately for them, God is
going to give them exactly what they want. He honors
their request and works with Samuel to find Israeli king.
The choice by God to honor Israel's request can cause
us to pause and ask a few questions. Why does
God give them what they ask for, especially when he
(43:31):
knows it's bad for them? Certainly he doesn't always do that,
So why now there are several correct answers to these questions,
but let's explore just one. Sometimes our hearts are revealed
only when we get precisely what we ask for. Think
about people who have sold their souls at the altar
of business and enterprise, only to succeed and find out
(43:54):
that it was all meaningless. Think about athletes who devote
their entire lives to be at the top of their
gar aim, only to be reminded of its futility and
inability to bring them happiness. Think about yourself and the
things you may have obsessed over that drew you away
from God and others. Did you feel satisfied when you
(44:14):
finally got what you wanted, or did you feel a
sense of emptiness? That emptiness is a signal to us
that what we want is not always what we need.
There are many lessons learned when we pursue the wrong
thing and get to the end of that journey. Samuel
tells the people exactly what will happen if they pursue
a king. He warns them that a king will bring
(44:36):
more restraint than freedom. This is often what sin does
to us. We pursue it think it will somehow fulfill
us and give us freedom, but we end up more
enslaved than before. It is God's desire to bring us freedom,
not constraint. Within his will and his presence, we are
meant to find purpose and liberty. Let's end by talking
(44:57):
about God's presence. Maybe you picked up on some subtle
imagery used in this first episode. It is an image
used several times in this series. It is the image
of the coal in the fire. When Samuel is encouraging
his sons in the beginning of the episode, he talks
about a fire. He asks them if they are able
to keep the coals burning, and goes on to say
(45:21):
a cold can burn as long as it lives within
the flame. Keep the coal in the flame. He says
this to remind his sons and us as the listeners,
that no one can rule the nation of Israel outside
the presence of God. The closer a ruler is to
the flame, the longer and brighter he will burn. But
(45:41):
the second someone removes themselves from the presence of God,
they will lose their heat, like the coal that burns out.
Did you notice the flame? In other parts of the episode,
Samuel watched a coal pop loose from the fire when
the elders were asking for a king, Nobody noticed, and
the coal slowly dimmed. This represented the heart of Israel
(46:04):
being lost outside of the presence of God. A coal
also fell out of the fire when Saul was speaking
with his uncle, only the coal did not burn out. Instead,
Saul kicked the coal back into the fire. This represents
Saul's karrent state with God. Saul is at a high
in his life right now and close enough to the
heart of God. The remaining question in the next few
(46:26):
episodes is this, Will Saul be able to keep the
coals burning for now? He seems to be exactly what
Israel wants, but is that what God wants? Will Saul
allow the voice of God to guide him? Will Saul
submit to the law of God and the advice of Samuel?
Or will the coal lose its light apart from the flame.
(46:47):
The end of the episode teases a small serpent like
voice slithering into the sea. The pride of the throne
will soon come for Saul's heart. Will he give in
to pride or rise above it? Those are going to
be some questions we explore in the next episode. We
will watch Saul's ascension as a mighty king. And even
find ourselves rooting for him. However, as I mentioned before
(47:11):
this episode, there is only one worthy to sit on
the throne. There's only one true king of Israel. It
is not Samuel, it is not Saul, and it will
not be David. The only king worthy to sit on
the throne of Israel and our hearts is Jesus Christ.
Thanks again for listening. For more inspiring stories, daily prayers,
(47:32):
and wisdom to last a lifetime, download Theprey dot com app.
Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the
newest episodes writer as they are released. God bless
Hi, I'm doctor Tony Evans, your host for the Heroes
in the Bible podcast. Before we begin, be sure to
follow this podcast on Apple or Spotify so that you're
updated on the newest episodes as they become available. So
where do we begin, Well, we do not begin with
David at all. In fact, his name isn't even mentioned
(00:22):
until later. First, we will begin this in every story
with a prelude, a tale from another point in time
that carries hidden messages for us. Then we will begin
our journey by meeting an old prophet named Samuel. He
is the final judge of Israel, task with finding a
king for the fallen children of God. The first King
(00:44):
of Israel seems on the outside to be noble, strong
and worthy of the throne. But there is only one
worthy to sit on the throne. There is only one
true King of Israel.
Speaker 2 (01:00):
Prelude to chapter one. It was a brutal and agonizing slaughter.
The men of Israel were thrown around like dogs of
the hands of the Philistines. Their blades thrust through Israelite,
fleshed swiftly and without mercy. There was no hope for
them to recover their position. Every man was doomed to
either die under the sword of the enemy or flee
(01:23):
like cowards into the wilderness. Thirty thousand soldiers of the
Lord's army lay dead in the valley, with crows pecking
at their rotting flesh in the hot sun. They had
begun the battle hopeful. Their swords were sharpened and their
armor glimmered in the sunlight. After several defeats to the Philistines,
they chose to bring in the Ark of the Covenant,
(01:44):
the manifest presence of God and a symbol of his
companionship with the nation of Israel. They shouted war cries
of victory as they paraded the Ark of God before
the Philistines. They had lost many battles and decided to
use God's presence as a tool of fear and boasting.
They thought if they had the Ark of the Covenant
(02:05):
in battle with them, that God would somehow condone their arrogance.
They wanted the appearance of holy strength without the devotion
to the one who was holy and strong. They were
gravely mistaken. Their songs of victory quickly turned into agonizing screams,
and the Ark of God stood in the midst of
the battle overlooking the downfall of Israel. God would not
(02:27):
give favor to the proud exploits of selfish men. He
would not grant Israel victory, but allow them to sit
in the results of their arrogance. The Ark rested on
a hill above the battlefield, ready to be taken by
the enemy. The Philistines plowed through Israel's defenses and made
their way to the Ark. They had once trembled in
fear at the thought of Israel's God. He was the
(02:49):
God who defeated Egypt and parted sees. Yet the high
of vanquishing their enemy had left them a reverent. They
took the Ark to the city of Ashdod, leaving behind
and thousands of dead Israelite bodies. They placed it in
the temple of Dagon, one of their many gods. The
Philistines made a mockery of God by placing him at
(03:10):
the altar of their god. In their pride, they deceived
themselves into thinking they had defeated the God of Israel.
They too, were gravely mistaken. The Philistines awoke to the
statue of Dagon laying down at the feet of the Ark,
with its head and hands cut clean off. God would
not bow to a man made image. God's hand was
(03:31):
heavy against the Philistines. The people of Astad broke out
in cancerous tumors. Strong men were utterly undone by the
very presence of God in their city. Afraid, they sent
the Ark to another Philistine city, Gath. They too were
given the kiss of death, having tumors boiled up from within,
which killed the strongest men among them. Every city God
(03:53):
was brought to, the people were afflicted. They feared the
presence of the Ark. Out of fear, the Ark was
returned to his life. Despite Israel's pride and arrogance, God
was able to vanquish their enemy. No army, no commander,
and no king could ever replace the almighty hand of God.
He was their defender, not their trophy. He was their Lord,
(04:17):
not their magician. The people of Israel were in desperate
need of guidance and humility. They needed a leader to
transform their hearts and connect them to the righteous heart
of God. The Lord would raise up such a leader. However,
he would not be the leader they expected.
Speaker 1 (04:35):
Welcome to the Epic Adventure of David, a story of honor, battle, jealousy, darkness, friendship, love, scandal,
and murder. While most people know of David the myth,
few people know David the man. What we are about
to explore in this epic adventure of a man after
(04:56):
God's own heart. But this adventure is not without its tragedy.
David's life is a glorious reminder it is better to
have a heart of gold than a sword of steel. However,
David's life is also a warning the glory of a
man is fleeting, but the glory of God is forever.
The ultimate beauty of David's story is that it's not
(05:18):
really about David at all, but God. As the legend
of the Giant Slayer unfolds, we will see that he
is not really the main character of this saga. He
is not the ultimate hero, the mighty King, or the
promised deliverer people hope for. David is but a shadow
of things promised. His story is a whisper in the
(05:41):
wind for telling of an even greater hero to come.
David's story, in its essence, foreshadows the story of Jesus.
He is merely a fractured image of the greatness that
awaits humanity in Christ. As this epic unfolds, look past
the glamour of war, and see into the future. With
(06:02):
every twist and turn of David's life, look for the
promise of greater redemption.
Speaker 2 (06:10):
Chapter one. A rejected God, Samuel sat beside the fire,
watching the emverse slowly shrinked under the cold sky. The
red coals reflected in the eyes of his sons, Joel
and Abijah. The three of them meditated in silence, allowing
the wintry bite of knight to enter their lungs. The
young men shivered in place, but their father remained motionless.
(06:33):
His brow was furrowed and concentrated. He was straining for
answers from God. He had judged Israel faithfully and acted
as a representative of his will to the people for
many years, yet now his time as their leader was
drawing to a close. Like many judges before him, he
had held the honor of ministering to God's people. He
was not their ruler or their king. He was simply
(06:55):
a man to look to as an example and a
person to intercede on the people's behalf. God had raised
up many judges before him. Some were men and women
of valor and wisdom, like off Neil and Dinah. Others
were unassuming like Gideon or brash like Samson. Each served
their own purpose, and each were used by God to
deliver his people from harm. Yet it was always God
(07:16):
who saved them. It was always God who led them
and kept them safe. A few of the coals popped,
waking Samuel from his trance. He looked up at his
shivering sons. Their breath could be seen like smoke in
the frigid air. He peered at them through the flames
and poked the coals with his staff.
Speaker 3 (07:33):
Are you able to keep the coals burning?
Speaker 2 (07:35):
Samuel asked. His voice was deep and sonorous. Even in
his old age, his voice maintained its resonant authority. It
was as if the words of God float out of
his mouth from a deep cavern. Joel and Abija looked
at each other and sparked. They had hoped this day
would come. Their father was going to appoint them as
judges over Israel. The two of them sat up dutifully
(07:56):
and nodded.
Speaker 4 (07:57):
We are Father. You may rest short that God's people
will be cared for.
Speaker 2 (08:02):
Samuel looked at them intently and nodded. His face was
impassive and unreadable. He took the end of his staff
and poked a burning coal.
Speaker 3 (08:10):
A coal can burn as long as it lives within
the flame.
Speaker 2 (08:13):
Samuel said. His sons watched as he nudged the coal
away from the fire. Its flame disappeared almost immediately, and
its red hue slowly faded. Within moments. Samuel picked up
the warm coal and handed it to his sons.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
Keep the coal in the flame, he said.
Speaker 2 (08:31):
With those words, he commissioned his sons to judge over Israel.
It was unorthodox for a son to take the place
of his father as judge. It was typically God who
chose his heroes and rose them up. However, Israel was
at a crossroads. Their ongoing conflict with the Philistines left
them vulnerable, and they were in need of strong leaders
to guide them. Joel and Abijah took on the mantle
(08:53):
of judge with enthusiasm, yet their hearts were filled with
selfish ambition. Their lust for power and greed had found
their vision, making them a reverent of the sacred position
given to them. Months passed, and the already corrupt people
of Israel had grown tired of Joel and Abijah as judges.
They received bribes from wealthy criminals to turn the blind
(09:15):
eye to their crimes. They bent the law of God
to serve their own selfish purposes and allowed the weak
and helpless of the community to suffer. They could not
have been more different than their father Samuel. Their perverted
sense of justice had caused a great deal of suffering
for the twelve tribes of Israel. All the elders from
all twelve tribes met in Rama to discuss and debate
(09:37):
the future of their country. They are a disgrace, one
of the elders exclaimed. The flames flickered loudly and swayed
to the breeze coming in from the window. The room
was large and arrayed with handwoven wool rugs and tapestries.
Each elder reclined in his place, listening to each other's please.
Speaker 3 (09:55):
Joel has been bought by some of the most powerful
and corrupt men in our nation. Abaijah takes the bribes
gladly and fills his stomach with foreign meats and wines.
Who appointed these men as judges over us? They have
no heart, they have no strength.
Speaker 2 (10:13):
Another declared, other.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Nations have strong kings over them. They are men of
power and authority. Another shouted, we have no one to
lead us. That is why we keep losing our battles
to the Philistines. That is why we lost the ark.
Speaker 2 (10:30):
The men stirred in the room into the night. They
complained about the state of their nation. In all their ramblings,
they did not pray. They did not bow and cry
out to God for help. In the corner of the room,
listening silently to the grumblings of the elders, was Samuel.
He reclined with his back pressed against the wall and
his staff firmly set in his hands, propping him up.
(10:52):
He listened, but he did not look at them. His
eyes were set solely on one call that had fallen
beside the fire. As the elder shouted, the coals bright
red hue, dimmed and fizzled out. Samuel looked up to
see all twelve elders watching him. Samuel, they said.
Speaker 3 (11:09):
Your sons do not walk as you do. They are
dishonorable and filled with greed. They do not possess what
we need to thrive as a nation. The time has
come for you to appoint a king.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
Samuel stood upright and puffed at his chest. His eyes
darted at them with righteous anger. Although Samuel was all
and well advanced in years, he still carried himself with authority.
The spirit of God came upon him, and the elder
stepped back in fear when they sensed him.
Speaker 3 (11:39):
Is not the Lord your king? Has he not delivered
you time and time again?
Speaker 2 (11:44):
Samuel asked sternly. The elders shrunk back at Samuel's questioning.
Speaker 3 (11:49):
We no longer want random judges rising up to protect us.
We desire a king to lead us into battle and
create the law of the land.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Samuel was teeming with anger. He stormed out of the
room and stepped outside. The stars were set firmly in
the skies. He looked up and considered the promise made
by Moses long ago.
Speaker 3 (12:11):
The Lord your God will raise up for you a
prophet like me from among your own brothers. You must
listen to him.
Speaker 2 (12:19):
He thought about the ultimate prophet God would raise up
to lead them. He longed for his coming and prayed
for it. Samuel knew that there could be no king
that would lead them like God could with compassion, strength, mercy,
and justice. Samuel fell to his knees and gripped the
grass with his fists. He prayed for answers. He knew
(12:41):
the elders would not relent with their requests. He felt
the great sense of rejection from them, even though it
was his son's not him, they were rejecting. A gentle
breeze slid down the hill and over Samuel's shoulder. In
the quietness of night, he heard the voice of God.
Speaker 5 (12:57):
Speak, give them what they have asked for, he said.
Speaker 2 (13:03):
Samuel cocked his head in confusion.
Speaker 5 (13:05):
Obey the voice of the people. In all their request
of you, they have not rejected you, Samuel. They have
rejected me from being king over them. From the day
I brought them out of slavery in Egypt. They have
forsaken me and sought after other gods.
Speaker 2 (13:30):
Since the very beginning. They have left me for others.
Samuel's eyes filled with tears as he heard the heart
of God. The Lord had done so much for them,
yet they desired another to lead them. A king was
just another golden calf to them, a counterfeit replacement for God.
(13:50):
The wind whistled down slope hills and whipped up dust
around Samuel. He heard God speak again, saying, obey the people.
Only solemnly warned them, and tell them what will happen
if they appoint a king. The next day, Samuel stood
in front of the elders and a multitude of people.
(14:11):
Thousands of people flocked to demand a king. One of
the elders stepped forward to speak, but Samuel raised his
hand to silence him. He walked to the platform in
front of the people and sat.
Speaker 3 (14:23):
So you want a king, he asked.
Speaker 2 (14:26):
They nodded in response. Samuel dipped his head and sighed,
you say you want a king, fair enough. I will
tell you what a king will do. He will take
your sons and draft them to ride his chariots and
polish his armory. They will ride into battle before him
and die brutally before he even enters the battlefield. He
(14:49):
will appoint commanders of thousands, hundreds, and fifties. They will
parade themselves in the streets like gods and require your
unwavering subservience to their egos. He will appoint others to
plow his ground and reap his harvest, to prepare food
for his vast armies. The blacksmiths will be taken to
make tools of war, and your daughters will be taken
(15:11):
to cook for his men. You and your family will
labor hard in the fields, vineyards, and olive groves. But
he will tax you and give it to his servants.
He will take a tenth of your grain, your wine,
and your money to fund his officers, councilmen, and servants.
He will recruit the best of your male and female workers.
(15:32):
He will take the best of your live stock and
breed your donkeys to put them to work. And after
this precious king of yours has created a nation and
army that revolves around his own personal economy, you will
find yourselves with less grain, lost sons, and taxed income.
Then you will cry out to God to deliver you
from this king that you have chosen, But he will
(15:55):
not answer you, because it is what you have asked for.
This is what a king will do. Do you understand.
The elders sat in silence for a long time. They
looked at each other, considering what Samuel had just said. Finally,
they all nodded in agreement and stood up.
Speaker 3 (16:14):
Give us a king, Samuel, they said, we need to
compete with other nations. We need someone to fight our battles.
Speaker 2 (16:22):
Every person stood and shouted for a king. Samuel's eyes
lifted to heaven. He closed his eyes, listening for the
voice of God. Obey their voice. Give them a king,
he said. Samuel could sense the heart of a rejected God. However,
he knew that the Lord of heaven and Earth would
never agree without a plan for redemption in mind. Samuel
(16:45):
stood high and lifted his arms in the air.
Speaker 3 (16:47):
Go every man to his own city, he shouted, I
shall search for your king.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
Residing in the grassy plains rolling through the region of
Benjamin was the house of kingsh a wealthy Benjamined farmer
and merchant. His land had been passed down from his
great great grandfather and stretched far towards the border of
Ephriam under the harsh eastern sun. Working on a broken
fence near the stables was Saul, the son of Kish.
(17:16):
His broad shoulders lifted a brand new post and lodged
it into the hole in the ground. Sweat gripped from
his head down the curves of his back muscles. He
picked up the posts that had been broken the night
before and rested it on his shoulder. He carried it
down to the woodpile to make firewood. He picked up
his axe and began to chop. A few of the
young women slowly passed by with pails of water resting
(17:38):
over their heads. It was a daily ritual to watch
Saul work. He stood a head taller than all the
other men in his tribe. Not only was he broad
and strong, but he was also handsome and well liked.
Even women from the other tribes knew of the handsome
and strapping son of Kish. Saul continued to chop the
post into smaller pieces, pretending not to notice the wandering
(17:59):
eyes of women passing from the well. He smirked, rose
the axe above his head, and swung down with force
and grace. Just as he was about to finish, saw
heard a call from his father's house.
Speaker 6 (18:11):
Saul Kiss shouted, what is the meaning of this?
Speaker 2 (18:14):
Saul looked up to see his father touching the new
wooden post he had dug into the ground. Saul wiped
his brow and left his axe lodged into the wood.
Speaker 6 (18:22):
The donkeys somehow broke the fence.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Father, Saul replied, gesturing to the broken post he was chopping.
Speaker 6 (18:28):
I've repaired the fence, but many of the donkeys seemed
to have gone missing.
Speaker 2 (18:34):
Kish nodded and looked in the distance.
Speaker 4 (18:36):
Let's hope they haven't gone far. Quick take one of
the young workers and go look for the donkeys.
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Saul nodded, put on a shirt, and gathered a few
of his belongings, a newly tanned water skin, some dried figs, bread,
and a seal of his father's ownership over the donkeys.
He and the servant Tabby made their way up the
hill country surrounding his father's estate. They soon realized the
donkeys must have ventured farther into the next region. They
pressed forward to the hill country of Ephriam. It was
(19:05):
lush with new spring blooms, and the gentle midday breeze
carried the fragrance of wildflowers. Saul stretched his arms wide
and took a deep breath. He was pleased to be
away from his father's home, even if it was for
a tedious task like tracking donkeys. Saul and his servant
walked through Shaali, Shah, and Shalim, inquiring about the missing donkeys.
(19:27):
Everyone was eager to speak to Saul, for he held
a good reputation in the land as a skilled fighter
and charismatic personality. The women especially enjoyed his company. In
every town Saul walked into, he had many eyes fixed
on him. He carried himself humbly, but in his heart
of hearts, he'd loved the attention. The donkeys were neither
(19:47):
in Shai Shah or Shalim, so Saul and Tabby hiked
beyond the hills into zoph The sun had begun its
descent from the highest place in the sky, and Saul
knew they had only a certain amount of daylight left.
You'd return, Saul murmured, Come let us return before my
father becomes more concerned about us than the donkeys. Tavvy
(20:08):
took a look around and held up his hand to
block the sun. He pointed to the nearby city nestled
in the hillside. I know this place, Tavvy said, excitedly.
Speaker 4 (20:17):
One of the merchants told me there is a man
of God here in the city. He is held in
high esteem. According to him, everything he says comes to pass.
Speaker 6 (20:25):
Would such a prophet care about a few donkeys, Saul.
Speaker 4 (20:29):
Scoffed, How would we know if we do not ask?
Speaker 6 (20:32):
Tavvy jested, we are ready here.
Speaker 4 (20:34):
What is the harm in spending another hour finding him?
Speaker 2 (20:37):
Saul looked down at the city and shrugged.
Speaker 6 (20:40):
What do we have to bring him? We have no
offering to give him for his services. Tavvy looked despondent
for a moment, but quickly raised his head in realization, Ah,
I may have something. Tavy reached into the bottom of
his sack and pulled out a small piece of cloth.
It was tattered and stained, and as Tavy unfolded it
could see a quarter of a shekel of silver.
Speaker 4 (21:02):
I've had this for a while, said Tabby. I will
give it to the seer and he will tell us
what we need to know.
Speaker 2 (21:08):
Saul was amazed at Tavvy. He, being only a worker
in his father's household, was willing to lay down a
very precious sum of money so they might retrieve the donkeys.
It warmed his heart, and he ordered him too much
to refuse his generosity.
Speaker 6 (21:22):
Well done, Tavy, Let us go into the city and
inquire about this man of God.
Speaker 2 (21:29):
The two men made their way down the slopes of
the hills outside the city until they came upon a well.
Several young women were drawing water into large clay jars
trapped to brons to carry them down the hill. Saul
leaned against the stone perimeter of the well and met
one of the women's gaze.
Speaker 6 (21:44):
Greetings, sister, Saul said.
Speaker 2 (21:46):
Joyfully, His smile was charming and bright. It caught the
young woman off guard, causing her to still water on
her garment. She blushed and began to frantically dry off.
The other women giggled. Saul handed her a clack sack.
We are here to speak with the Seer, a man
of God.
Speaker 5 (22:05):
Is he here?
Speaker 2 (22:06):
The woman blushed and smiled.
Speaker 7 (22:08):
Oh, yes, she said, he is just ahead of you,
but you must be swift. He has only come to
the city because the people have a sacrifice today in
the high Place. I have no doubt if you enter
the city, people will be able to tell you where
he is. The people do not eat until he comes
down from the sacrifice. After he returns, all who are
(22:28):
invited to feast with him eat.
Speaker 2 (22:30):
Saul bowed in gratitude and made his way to the
city entrance. As he entered, he stumbled upon an old
man draped in robes.
Speaker 6 (22:38):
Sir, do you know where I might be able to
find the Seer.
Speaker 2 (22:43):
Samuel looked up at the tall and handsome man standing
before him. His shoulders were set backwards, puffing out his
large chest and tight stomach. His beard was perfectly trimmed
up to his rich dark hair. He had the frame
of a warrior and the deep voice of a commander.
Before he could answer the young man, the Lord whispered.
Speaker 5 (23:01):
In his ear. Here is the man of whom I
spoke to you, Samuel. This is the man who will
restrain my people.
Speaker 2 (23:11):
Just a day prior, God had spoken to Samuel, saying.
Speaker 5 (23:14):
Tomorrow, at this time, I will send you a man
from the tribe of Benjamin. You shall anoint him to
be king over my people Israel. He shall save them
from the hand of the Philistines, just as the people
have wanted.
Speaker 2 (23:32):
Samuel said nothing. He scanned the man from his toes
to the top of his head. Everything about Saul's appearance
was kingly. Even his voice had a resounding tone to it.
Samuel gave a brief smile and said.
Speaker 3 (23:46):
I am the Seer.
Speaker 2 (23:48):
Saul looked perplexed when he answered. Samuel wore no extravagant
robes or necklace of jewels. He seemed on the outside
to be an ordinary old man. However, when he spoke,
there was power and authority behind his words. Samuel began
to walk away and gestured for Saul and Tabby to follow.
Speaker 3 (24:06):
Come with me, the old prophet said, go into the
high place where I have made the sacrifice. There you
will share a meal with me, and in the morning
I shall tell you what you need to know.
Speaker 2 (24:18):
Saul was taken back by the prophet's invitation. He treated
him as if he had met him before.
Speaker 6 (24:24):
Great Seeer. All I have come to ask is.
Speaker 3 (24:26):
Your donkeys are fine and well, Saul's son.
Speaker 2 (24:29):
Of Kish, Samuel interrupted.
Speaker 3 (24:31):
They were found shortly after you departed on your journey.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Saul and Tabby looked at each other in dismay. How
did this man already know their needs? Samuel sensed their
discomfort and ignored it. He spoke matter of factly, saying.
Speaker 3 (24:45):
There are other matters to discuss, for you are the
one whom all of Israel has been pining after.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Saul halted and stopped following Samuel, Why are you speaking
to me this way? Saul asked, I am surely not
worthy to eat with you? Or have you say these
things to me? Am I not from the tribe of Benjamin,
the least of the tribes of Israel, and my father
is from the most humble of clans in Benjamin. I
(25:12):
am nobody. I am not worthy. Saul's false humility did
not fool Samuel. His father was a rich and prominent
man in the tribe of Benjamin. Surely he did not
feel unworthy, but only that he needed to accept the
invitation with humility. Samuel took note of this and continued
to guide the two men to a high place for
a meal. Saul entered the large home on the top
(25:35):
of the hill. Torches laced the perimeter of a large
dining hall, where thirty gats reclined at a long wooden table.
The smell of cooked meat and herbs filled the room,
and Saul had finally realized how hungry he really was.
Samuel led him to the front of the table. On
his way, many men greeted Saul and introduced themselves. Saul
(25:56):
bowed in humility, being sure to have Samuel notice his modesty.
Samuel sat at the seat right at the head of
the table. He then gestured for Saul to sit at
the very head. It was an astonishing gesture to have
a stranger sit at the head of your table. It
was reserved for the host or a guest of great
honor or royalty. Saul was confused by Samuel's hospitality and
(26:18):
wondered what the old prophet was thinking. Although Samuel gave
Saul the most esteemed place of the table and the
best portions of food, his face remained impassive. He seemed
almost apathetic to his presence. Instead of engaging with Saul,
he simply leaned back and listened to others asking questions.
Saul could not help but think he was being tested.
(26:41):
That night, Samuel led Saul and his servant down the
hill back into the city. The light of day had disappeared,
and the moon's silvery light guided the men to Samuel's
temporary home. I have made a place for you to sleep,
Samuel said. Rest here for.
Speaker 3 (26:54):
The night, and tomorrow I will send you off.
Speaker 2 (26:57):
A bed had been made for Saul on the roof.
A single lamp was lit at the head of it.
He bound to Samuel with gratitude and tucked into bed.
Tavy slept not too far away on the other side
of the rooftop. Saul lay awake, looking at the moon
that night. His heart beat fast in anticipation for the
next morning. He did not know why, but he felt
(27:17):
as if his life was about to change forever. Dawn
broke over the hills, scattering light across the green plains.
The darkness of night was slowly melting away above Saul's head.
When he felt the prodding of Samuel's foot on his shoulder.
Saul looked up to see the old man standing over him.
Speaker 3 (27:34):
Arise, Saul, it is time for you to return home.
Speaker 2 (27:37):
Saul rubbed his eyes and stretched. There was a tinge
of disappointment. He was sure that there had been some
reason for Samuel's hospitality. Saul did not want to leave
without an explanation. The three of them walked towards the gate.
The morning light had spread slowly across the horizon and
people were beginning to emerge from their homes to start
their day. Saul watched merchants set out their shops and
(28:00):
women to part with jars to the well. As they
approached the gates, Samuel tugged on Saul's robe.
Speaker 3 (28:06):
Remain here for a moment, Saul, and tell your servant
to continue. You'll catch up to him.
Speaker 2 (28:11):
Saul did as he was told, so it was just
him and the prophet standing alone. Samuel led them both
by the stream that curved around the city sid he
said shortly. Saul took a seat on a smooth stone
at the edge of the water. Samuel took a flask
of oil out of his robe and removed the top.
Saul watched curiously as the old prophet whispered into the
(28:32):
oil and closed his eyes. He was praying, but not
in the way Saul had known prayer. Samuel was speaking
to God as if he was dwelling within his own
heart and mind. He noticed his hands holding the flask.
Most men his age had trembling hands. They were unsteady
and shaking. However, Samuel's hands were not trembling. They held
(28:54):
the oil firmly, purposefully, raising the flask above Saul's head.
As the prophet prayed, Saul could feel the oil being
poured onto his head. The fragrant oil dripped down Saul's
hair and shoulders. Samuel grabbed his face and kissed his forehead.
He looked at him with an intense gaze and said.
Speaker 3 (29:12):
The Lord has anointed you, Saul. You shall reign over
God's people. You will save them from the enemies that
rage at their borders and seek their heads. This oil
shall be assigned to you. That the Lord has anointed
you and called you over his children.
Speaker 2 (29:30):
Saul looked up at Samuel with watery eyes. He was
without words, and unable to keep his hands from shaking,
He could not help but smile and shake his head.
Speaker 3 (29:40):
How can this be, he whispered, Arise, Samuel said, depart
from me to day and return towards the house of
your father. On your way, you will meet two men.
They will inform you that your father's donkeys have been found.
After this, you will go further until you reach the
Oak of Tabor. There three men will be going up
(30:02):
to make sacrifices to God at Bethel. One will be
carrying three young goats, the other will have three loaves
of bread, and the other will carry a skin of wine.
These men will greet you and give you two loaves
of bread for your journey.
Speaker 6 (30:17):
Why are you telling me these things, Saul asked.
Speaker 3 (30:21):
If I did not tell you, they would simply be
random happenings on the road back home. Since I have
told you these things will happen, it gives my words
more weight When they come to pass. This is your
confirmation that the Lord has made you king. After these things,
you shall go to Gibethe Elohim, where there is a
garrison of enemy Philistines currently stationed. As soon as you
(30:44):
come near the city, you will meet a group of
prophets coming down from the high place with harms, tambourines, flutes,
and liars.
Speaker 2 (30:51):
Samuel paused for a moment and bent down to Saul.
His eyes met his, and they were locked for what
seemed like minutes.
Speaker 3 (30:58):
The spirit of the Lord Lord is moving, Saul.
Speaker 2 (31:01):
Samuel gestured to the rushing stream beside them.
Speaker 3 (31:04):
He is moving and rushing like these waters. He will
rush upon you, and you will prophesy to these men.
As you worship and pray, you will feel yourself change
into a new man.
Speaker 2 (31:18):
Saul gulped and nodded. He was unsure of how to
receive what Samuel was telling him. He felt honored and
terrified at the same time. He closed his eyes and
took a deep breath. He opened his eyes and looked
at Samuel intently. What will come after this, he asked.
Samuel lifted Sol up to his feet and grabbed his shoulders.
(31:39):
Do what you see fit, he responded. God is with you.
He will guide you. However, you will be expected to
meet me at Gilgo. I am coming down to offer
a sacrifice. You will wait seven days, and then I
shall tell you what to do. So Samuel dismissed Saul,
and everything he had declared came to pass. With each
(32:00):
passing sign, Saul felt his heart changing. The confirmation of
God's calling on his life began to create genuine humility
and awe on him. As he marched up the hill
to worship with the prophets, he felt a rush of
God's spirit upon him. He began to proclaim the justice, mercy,
and goodness of God, and all who knew Saul previously
(32:20):
stood in amazement. After his long journey, With a transformed
heart resounding within him like a trumpet, Saul returned home.
The sun was setting, and Saul could feel the favor
of God going before him with every step. He had
always walked taller than the rest of his brothers, his
shoulders were always able to carry heavier loads, and his
(32:40):
legs could run longer distances. However, at this moment, Saul
had never felt so strong. The spirit of God had
anointed him, and he could feel within him a fire
burning for justice and righteousness. He entered past the gates
of his father's pastures, eager to tell them all that
had happened. He entered the warm home home where Stu
cooked over an open flame. Saul's uncle was sitting near
(33:03):
the embers, enjoying this savory aroma. Saul embraced his uncle
and sat down next to him.
Speaker 6 (33:09):
We departed to find the lost donkeys, he said, with
a smile. When we did not find them, we sought Samuel,
the prophet.
Speaker 2 (33:17):
His uncle leaned in close. His gaze was intense and serious.
Speaker 3 (33:21):
You met the man of God himself. He asked, what.
Speaker 6 (33:25):
Was he like? What did he tell you?
Speaker 2 (33:28):
Saul was about to answer, then he heard a coal
in the fire pop and fall off in the pit.
He stared at it, mesmerized by the flickering light. He
took his foot and flicked it back into the fire.
Saul looked at his uncle and chuckled.
Speaker 6 (33:44):
Ah. He told us plainly that the donkeys had been found,
So we made our way back here a waste of time.
Speaker 2 (33:53):
After this, Saul sat down and enjoyed a meal with
his family. He did not tell any one of his
encounter with the prophet. He allowed the truth of God
to simmer in his heart for a little longer. Samuel
stood once again in front of the Elders of Israel,
the twelve elders, each representing the twelve tribes came before him,
eagerly awaiting a response to their demands.
Speaker 3 (34:16):
Have you found us a king?
Speaker 5 (34:17):
They asked.
Speaker 2 (34:19):
Samuel's eyes darted forward.
Speaker 5 (34:21):
He scoffed, you.
Speaker 3 (34:22):
Mean, have I found you a slave master you so
desperately desire. No, I've done nothing. However, the Lord, in
his mercy, has decided to give you the desires of
your hearts, even if they do lead you down a
treacherous path.
Speaker 2 (34:38):
The elders ignored Samuel's disdain and awaited an actual answer
to their question. Samuel rubbed his temple and said, go
to your tribes.
Speaker 3 (34:47):
Every man, woman and child shall meet me at Mizpah.
Be sure that everyone is present, for the Lord will
reveal his chosen king.
Speaker 2 (34:57):
The men left excitedly, but Samuel was still by their
unrepentant hearts. Even after meeting Saul, he remained resolute that
a king was a bad decision. To accept a king
was to reject their God. However, as the Lord commanded,
Samuel went before the people at Mizpah. Samuel scanned the
(35:17):
sea of faces before him. Hundreds of thousands hung in suspense,
waiting for the last judge of Israel to proclaim a
new era of rule in Israel. Samuel rose his hands
up high to silence the crowd. The silent tension was
thick enough to cut with a knife. Out of the quietude,
Samuel spoke with a trumpeting voice of a prophet, saying.
Speaker 3 (35:39):
Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, I am
the one who saved you from captivity in Egypt. I
delivered you from the grips of slavery in the kingdom
that oppressed you. But today you have rejected the God
who has saved you from so many calamities and distresses,
(36:00):
asked for a king to replace him.
Speaker 2 (36:03):
A soft breeze came up behind Samuel. It cooled his
heightened anger towards the people. He breathed in deeply and said.
Speaker 3 (36:11):
Present yourselves before the Lord, by your tribes and by
your clans.
Speaker 2 (36:17):
Samuel watched as the people shifted and moved to organize
into clans and tribes. The eldest were sure to organize
and dictate where all should stand at attention. Saul was
clumped in among the tribe of Benjamin, in the tribe
of the Matrites. He watched as his brother and fellow
clansmen looked at one another eagerly. They wondered if they
were going to be selected. However, Saul knew what the
(36:39):
result would be, and he felt a sense of dread
fall upon him, not for the mantle of king, but
for the attention of all the people. Samuel reached into
his robes and pulled out a sack filled with twelve
smooth stones with markings carved into them. Each was distinctly
different from the other. They were lots, and often used
to determine the will of God. Samuel cast the lots
(37:01):
onto the floor. The stone of Benjamin was selected, so
he brought the tribe of Benjamin near. He organized them
by clans and cast lots again. The clan of the
Matrites was selected. Saul's heart began to pound in his
chest out of pure anxiety. Saul shifted his feet to
hide behind one of the carts filled with farming equipment.
(37:21):
Saul stood with his back against the cart, listening to
Samuel rejects several of the families within his clan. Finally,
the family of Kish was selected, and Saul heard Samuel
say his name, Saul. Where is Saul, Samuel asked. Saul
was frozen and placed behind the cart. He pounded the
back of his head against it, thinking about running. But
(37:44):
before he had a chance to run, a han grabbed
his shoulder. It was his uncle.
Speaker 6 (37:50):
Here he is.
Speaker 2 (37:51):
The people applauded as Saul walked towards the front where
Samuel was standing. They cheered and awed at how large
he was. They saw his broad sho shoulders and strong arms.
They saw his chisel jaw and dark beard. He was
everything they desired in a king. He had the appearance
of strength, He had the body of a king, and
they cared very little about the heart that dwelled within it.
(38:14):
Saul stepped up to the platform beside Samuel. The old
prophet bowed his head and gave a weary smile. He
turned to the crowd and pointed to Saul, saying.
Speaker 3 (38:23):
Look upon the one the Lord has chosen.
Speaker 2 (38:26):
A cacophony of praise erupted from the entire nation. The
sound of trumpets filled the air, and the shouts of
adoration flooded Saul's heart. The praise that was once given
to God was now thrust upon Saul.
Speaker 6 (38:40):
Long live the King, they shouted. Long Live King Saul.
Speaker 2 (38:47):
They proclaimed. As songs were sung and instruments were played,
A small voice emerged from within Saul's mind. Its whisper
was nearly silent, but sharp and powerful. Saul his own
pride was beginning to creep into his heart.
Speaker 1 (39:06):
Israel's first king has been chosen. The people wanted a
ruler to lead them, and Saul certainly seems to fit
the part. But one of the themes in this episode
is that looks can be deceiving. The prelude shows us
that you can't simply manufacture the favor of God and
force him to bless you. The people of Israel paraded
(39:26):
the Ark of the Covenant out like a weapon and
a sign of intimidation. They wanted the appearance of victory,
thinking it would somehow move the hand of God to
fight for them. They were gravely mistaken. Now we meet Saul,
a strapping young man with broad shoulders and a commanding presence.
He looked like a king, acts like a king, and
(39:47):
even carries himself with that false humility we see and
a lot of athletes and politicians. But what about his heart, Well,
we know nothing about his heart. In fact, his heart
for God isn't mentioned at all. Saul is this polished
image of what people think a king should look like.
But we have no idea what's going on in his
mind or heart? Is he passionate about God's people? Does
(40:12):
he take the law of God seriously? What about his
prayer life or willingness to yield when corrected? We know
none of these things, because Saul is meant to represent
the hollowness of worldly leaders, all image with no substance. Samuel, however,
knows better. He warns the people of Israel that the
(40:32):
office of king is flawed to begin with, since whoever
becomes king is going to be taking the place of
God in their lives. Up until now, Israel was ruled
by God and the elders of the tribes of Israel. Occasionally,
when Israel was in a bind, he would raise up
judges to save them. This system worked, and it continually
(40:52):
brought them back to God when things were difficult. They
relied on Him for everything, and He was always faithful Judges,
which took place right before this episode, revealed to us
the faithfulness of God despite human brokenness. Who is this
promised leader, prophet, and deliverer that is whispered about in
the prelude and by Samuel?
Speaker 3 (41:14):
Is it Saul?
Speaker 6 (41:15):
Is it?
Speaker 1 (41:16):
Going to be David. Asking these questions places us in
the minds of the early Hebrews. These people were in
constant anticipation of this promised leader spoken about by Moses
and foreshadowed in Genesis. They were eagerly waiting for a
chosen hero, hand picked by God to deliver them and
lead them. It stands to reason that at this point
(41:38):
in the story many Jews were thinking that Saul might
be the one. They will be disappointed, obviously, but honestly
they will be disappointed with David. As well as great
and mighty. As David becomes, he doesn't hold a candle
to God's true deliverer. One of the key themes in
this entire series is going to be that a greater
(41:59):
prophet than Samuel, a greater king than Saul, and a
greater hero than David is coming. But what is Israel
supposed to do while they wait for this great prophet?
Dozens of evil nations surround Israel, armored chariots, ridden by
warrior kings and legendary commanders who wouldn't be intimidated by that.
Israel wants to feel like they can measure up to
(42:22):
those other nations with a strong king to represent them
in battle, trade, and peace negotiations. The ancient world is
evolving and Israel can feel themselves falling behind. But there's
an issue with who they seek out for answers. They
don't seek God, sacrifice to him, or pray to him
for answers. Instead, they outsource the job to Samuel, expecting
(42:46):
him to figure it out for them. They don't want
to do the spiritual legwork it takes to get answers,
probably because they know what they are doing is wrong.
The elders of Israel ignore their responsibility to seek God
and give the task to Samuel. The elders also ignore
their responsibility to lead the people and give the tasks
to Saul. There is a perpetual shirking of duty in
(43:10):
exchange for the easy way. Unfortunately for them, God is
going to give them exactly what they want. He honors
their request and works with Samuel to find Israeli king.
The choice by God to honor Israel's request can cause
us to pause and ask a few questions. Why does
God give them what they ask for, especially when he
(43:31):
knows it's bad for them? Certainly he doesn't always do that,
So why now there are several correct answers to these questions,
but let's explore just one. Sometimes our hearts are revealed
only when we get precisely what we ask for. Think
about people who have sold their souls at the altar
of business and enterprise, only to succeed and find out
(43:54):
that it was all meaningless. Think about athletes who devote
their entire lives to be at the top of their
gar aim, only to be reminded of its futility and
inability to bring them happiness. Think about yourself and the
things you may have obsessed over that drew you away
from God and others. Did you feel satisfied when you
(44:14):
finally got what you wanted, or did you feel a
sense of emptiness? That emptiness is a signal to us
that what we want is not always what we need.
There are many lessons learned when we pursue the wrong
thing and get to the end of that journey. Samuel
tells the people exactly what will happen if they pursue
a king. He warns them that a king will bring
(44:36):
more restraint than freedom. This is often what sin does
to us. We pursue it think it will somehow fulfill
us and give us freedom, but we end up more
enslaved than before. It is God's desire to bring us freedom,
not constraint. Within his will and his presence, we are
meant to find purpose and liberty. Let's end by talking
(44:57):
about God's presence. Maybe you picked up on some subtle
imagery used in this first episode. It is an image
used several times in this series. It is the image
of the coal in the fire. When Samuel is encouraging
his sons in the beginning of the episode, he talks
about a fire. He asks them if they are able
to keep the coals burning, and goes on to say
(45:21):
a cold can burn as long as it lives within
the flame. Keep the coal in the flame. He says
this to remind his sons and us as the listeners,
that no one can rule the nation of Israel outside
the presence of God. The closer a ruler is to
the flame, the longer and brighter he will burn. But
(45:41):
the second someone removes themselves from the presence of God,
they will lose their heat, like the coal that burns out.
Did you notice the flame? In other parts of the episode,
Samuel watched a coal pop loose from the fire when
the elders were asking for a king, Nobody noticed, and
the coal slowly dimmed. This represented the heart of Israel
(46:04):
being lost outside of the presence of God. A coal
also fell out of the fire when Saul was speaking
with his uncle, only the coal did not burn out. Instead,
Saul kicked the coal back into the fire. This represents
Saul's karrent state with God. Saul is at a high
in his life right now and close enough to the
heart of God. The remaining question in the next few
(46:26):
episodes is this, Will Saul be able to keep the
coals burning for now? He seems to be exactly what
Israel wants, but is that what God wants? Will Saul
allow the voice of God to guide him? Will Saul
submit to the law of God and the advice of Samuel?
Or will the coal lose its light apart from the flame.
(46:47):
The end of the episode teases a small serpent like
voice slithering into the sea. The pride of the throne
will soon come for Saul's heart. Will he give in
to pride or rise above it? Those are going to
be some questions we explore in the next episode. We
will watch Saul's ascension as a mighty king. And even
find ourselves rooting for him. However, as I mentioned before
(47:11):
this episode, there is only one worthy to sit on
the throne. There's only one true king of Israel. It
is not Samuel, it is not Saul, and it will
not be David. The only king worthy to sit on
the throne of Israel and our hearts is Jesus Christ.
Thanks again for listening. For more inspiring stories, daily prayers,
(47:32):
and wisdom to last a lifetime, download Theprey dot com app.
Follow the podcast on Apple or Spotify to get the
newest episodes writer as they are released. God bless
Host
Dr. Tony Evans
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