6.2 According to the New Testament, Christians in a particular locality are to commit themselves to meeting together as a local Church. A local Church should be marked by teaching based on the message of the Bible, leadership which helps
A monumental failure
Saul was given a task from God. He was to bring justice, without any gain for himself, upon an enemy of the nation. All he had to do was obey. But he hasn’t. His heart has led him astray to
Grieving the Lord
Three times in three chapters Saul has the opportunity to sacrifice in the way God desires; three times he fails. The first was when he panicked over Samuel’s lateness in chapter 13. Then when he caused dangerous havoc with a
A positive list
The picture of Saul has been quite negative in 1 Samuel. But that’s by no means the whole story of his reign and here the writer pauses to tell us more positive things about him. Saul fought hard for his
Whatever seems best
Saul’s foolish, proud leadership has left his army famished with the result they devour captured animals like a pack of wild dogs. Rather than admitting his mistake, however, Saul tries to put things right his way. This goes badly wrong
Bright eyes
Saul is his chaos and so are his people. Despite a moment of victory presenting itself, by the Lord’s grace, he cannot see the right thing to do and issues commands that either cause havoc or end up getting quickly
Perhaps
Jonathan could have been left downhearted by his father’s sin and the trouble it’s brought to him. But he actually acts boldly, going quietly with one servant to challenge the enemies of the nation. It looks hopeless. One sword against
The heart of a man
Israel’s self-confidence that she can fight her own battles is exposed for the folly it is. Under the strain of Philistine intimidation, Saul’s heart gives way and he disobeys his orders from God via Samuel. Saul then follows this failure
Answered prayer?
Saul’s been chosen. He’s been anointed. He’s been tested. Now the moment has come for him to step up as king. He needs to call the army together and take on the Philistines, looking to secure Israel’s release from their
Foolish dreams, genuine hope
Samuel is making his retirement-from-leadership speech as the nation moves to Saul as ruler. Once more he warns the people not to try and save themselves, but look up to the Lord. They have placed way too much hope in