A King for the Israelites
As Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons to help lead Israel. Unfortunately, his sons were dishonest and did not follow God's ways. Because of this, the leaders of Israel came to Samuel and asked for a king to rule over them like the other nations around them.
Samuel was saddened by their request and prayed to God. God told Samuel that the people were rejecting His leadership. God instructed Samuel to warn them that a king would take their sons for war, their daughters for service, and part of their possessions. Even after hearing the warning, the people still wanted a king.
God directed Samuel to choose Saul from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was selected as Israels first king. At first, Saul had success leading the nation and fighting against its enemies.
Later, God commanded Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites and everything that belonged to them. Saul disobeyed by sparing King Agag and keeping the best animals. Because Saul failed to obey God fully, Samuel told him that God would choose another king to replace him.
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BIble verse
NIV
"To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." — 1 Samuel 15:22 (NIV)
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Questions & Answers (QA)
1. Why did the Israelites ask for a king?
2. How did Samuel respond to the request?
3. What warning did God give about kings?
4. Did the Israelites still want a king?
5. From which tribe was Saul chosen?
6. Who became Israels first king?
7. Which enemy nation did Saul fight?
8. What did Saul fail to destroy?
9. Why was God displeased with Saul?
10. What did Samuel tell Saul would happen?
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