Saul First King of Israel

Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin, was the first king of Israel, chosen for his impressive stature. He began well but disobedience led to his rejection. His life ended tragically in battle.

1. Israel Demands a Kingc. 1050 BC

   When Samuel grows old and his sons prove corrupt, Israel's elders demand a king 'like all the other nations.' God tells Samuel to grant their request, though they are rejecting God as their king.

   1SA 8:1-22

2. Searching for Donkeysc. 1050 BC

   Saul, a tall, handsome Benjamite, searches for his father's lost donkeys. His servant suggests consulting the prophet Samuel. God has already revealed to Samuel that He will send the future king.

   1SA 9:1-17

3. Privately Anointedc. 1050 BC

   Samuel anoints Saul with oil, declaring him leader over God's inheritance. He prophesies that Saul will meet prophets and be changed into a different person as the Spirit of God comes upon him powerfully.

   1SA 9:18-10:13

4. Publicly Chosenc. 1050 BC

   At Mizpah, Samuel presents Saul through the casting of lots. When chosen, Saul is found hiding among the baggage. Despite his stature, he displays humility. Some worthless men despise him, but he keeps silent.

   1SA 10:17-27

5. Victory Over Ammonc. 1050 BC

   When Nahash the Ammonite threatens Jabesh Gilead, the Spirit of God comes upon Saul in power. He musters Israel, defeats the Ammonites, and shows mercy to his earlier critics. His kingship is confirmed at Gilgal.

   1SA 11:1-15

6. Presumptuous Sacrificec. 1048 BC

   Before battle with the Philistines at Michmash, Saul waits seven days for Samuel. When Samuel delays and the army scatters, Saul offers the burnt offering himself. Samuel arrives and pronounces that Saul's kingdom will not endure.

   1SA 13:1-14

7. Jonathan's Heroismc. 1048 BC

   Jonathan and his armor-bearer attack a Philistine outpost, triggering panic throughout the enemy camp. Saul's rash oath nearly causes Jonathan's death for eating honey, but the people rescue Jonathan.

   1SA 14:1-46

8. Incomplete Obedience Against Amalekc. 1028 BC

   God commands Saul to completely destroy the Amalekites and their livestock. Saul defeats them but spares King Agag and the best animals. Samuel confronts him: 'To obey is better than sacrifice.' God rejects Saul as king.

   1SA 15:1-35

9. David Anointedc. 1025 BC

   God sends Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint a new king from Jesse's sons. David, the youngest, is chosen. The Spirit of the Lord comes upon David, while an evil spirit torments Saul. David enters Saul's service as a musician.

   1SA 16:1-23

10. Jealousy of Davidc. 1020 BC

    After David kills Goliath, women sing that Saul has killed thousands but David tens of thousands. Saul becomes jealous and afraid of David. He attempts to kill David with his spear and plots against his life.

    1SA 18:6-29

11. Pursuing Davidc. 1020-1010 BC

    Saul spends years hunting David through the wilderness. David twice spares Saul's life when he could have killed him. Saul briefly repents each time but soon resumes pursuit. His obsession consumes his reign.

    1SA 24, 26

12. The Witch of Endorc. 1010 BC

    Facing the Philistines without God's guidance, Saul desperately consults a medium to summon Samuel's spirit. Samuel's message is doom: tomorrow Saul and his sons will die, and Israel will fall to the Philistines.

    1SA 28:3-25

13. Death on Mount Gilboac. 1010 BC

    The Philistines defeat Israel at Mount Gilboa. Three of Saul's sons, including Jonathan, are killed. Wounded by archers, Saul falls on his own sword rather than be captured. His body is hung on the wall of Beth Shan.

    1SA 31:1-13