Vv. 1-8 In private, Samuel anoints Saul with oil and declares him prince over the people who are the Lord’s. Samuel begins to tell of what Saul will experience next with great detail, adding to the amazement of the scene. Each detail gives credibility to Samuel and this anointing. This includes even a change in himself, where he will be given the gift of prophecy and equipped for the job ahead. After this powerful string of events Saul is told to wait for Samuel.

Vv. 9-16 Surely Saul experiences a change when the Spirit rushes upon him. People were able to experience the change on his life and were amazed. He then meets his uncle and does not disclose his anointing.

Vv. 17-27 Samuel brings all the tribes together that a king may be chosen from among them, as decided through the casting of lots. This was an ancient practice used to determine the will of God. Saul had hidden himself in the meeting, but was found out by the Lord and chosen publicly as king.