1 Samuel 7-8
7:1-4 The Israelites have been defeated by the Philistines and, though the ark has returned, it brought with it death and a fear of the Lord. We see Israel sulk for 20 years. Then, Samuel steps up and brings leadership to Israel. He calls for them to repent and cast aside their idols and serve only the Lord. The people listen.
7:5-11 The people gather at Mizpah for a mass fasting and repentance. Samuel judged and prayed on behalf of the Israelites before the Lord. The Philistines think to themselves that this gathering is a good time to mount a massive attack because Israel is defenseless. In their distress, the people do not run away or take up arms, but rather call on the Lord. And the Lord does come. He protects his people and defeat the Philistines.
7:12-17 We see that in the time of Samuel’s leadership, the persecutors of Israel are soundly defeated and no longer bother Israel. We also see that some of Israel’s enemies are at peace with Israel.
8:1-9 All good things seemingly come to an end, and Samuel is getting old. He appoints his sons to be judges, but the prove unworthy and sinful; they do not keep justice. The people of Israel see this and ask Samuel to install for them a king. This displeases Samuel and the Lord. The Lord tells Samuel to allow the appointing of a king, though he sees it as a rejection of himself. God is supposed to be King over Israel.
8:10-18 The warning that is given to Israel is amazing as it describes not only the unfolding of a monarchy, but also shows the freedom that God provided. By installing a human king, the king will certainly make all things subject for his own purposes. God as king brought his people in as royalty, while a human king sees them as pawns.
8:19-22 The people do not take the warning seriously and press forward for a king.
What was the core of Samuel’s message? How is that like/unlike the messages we hear from Christians today?
Why was having a king such a bad thing?
How is God’s kingship different than a man’s?