BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

How a person behaves under pressure reveals their true character. Today’s reading shows Saul’s flaws in full view through two military crises.

In the first, Saul and his army are cornered, waiting for Samuel to offer a sacrifice and seek Yahweh’s guidance. Samuel delays, and as the sun slips toward the horizon, panic causes Saul to take matters into his own hands. He performs the offering himself.

Samuel arrives just in time to catch the scent of the unauthorized sacrifice. When he confronts Saul, the king refuses to admit fault and instead makes excuses. He then turns to a new spiritual advisor, Eli’s great-grandson, Ahijah.

The second crisis begins with Saul’s own recklessness. Driven by bloodlust against the Philistines, he pulls a Jeptha-like move by making a rash oath that nearly costs his son Jonathan’s life over a bite of honey. Only the intervention of the people spares Jonathan.

Ironically, Jonathan’s courage and trust in Yahweh highlight the contrast with his father. He would have made a far better king. But Saul’s persistent pride and failure to trust Yahweh cost both himself and Jonathan the throne. God chose Saul, but Saul did not choose God. How will things end for this short dynasty?

Reflection Questions

• Where else in Israel’s story so far have you seen Israelites pinned down by enemy chariots? What happened? How do those stories shape your understanding of Saul’s predicament and his response in today’s reading?
• Contrast the actions of Saul and Jonathan in today’s reading. What do you learn about each man’s character from their words, decisions, and actions under pressure?