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1 Samuel 15:23
Verse
Context
Samuel Denounces Saul
22But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. 23For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.”
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry - This is no translation of those difficult words, כי חטאת קסם מרי ואון ותרפים הפצר ki chattath kesem meri veaven utheraphim haphtsar. It appears to me that the three nouns which occur first in the text refer each to the three last in order. Thus, חטאת chattath, Transgression, refers to און aven, Iniquity, which is the principle whence transgression springs. קסם kesem, Divination, refers to תרפים teraphim, consecrated images or telesms, vulgarly talismans, used in incantations. And מרי meri, Rebellion, refers evidently to הפצר haphstar, Stubbornness, whence rebellion springs. The meaning therefore of this difficult place may be the following: As transgression comes from iniquity, divination from teraphim, and rebellion from stubbornness, so, because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king. All the versions are different.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,.... Or divination (e), in whatsoever way it was exercised; for there were various sorts of it among the Heathens, and all condemned by the law of God, Deu 18:10. Now rebellion against God, or disobeying his commands, though in things otherwise, were they not forbidden by him, lawful to be done, is as heinous a sin as to be guilty of witchcraft, or any kind of divination forbidden by the law of God, and deserves as sore a punishment: and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry: for a man, when he has committed a sin, to persist in it obstinately, or to vindicate himself in it, and insist on his innocence, which was Saul's case, is as hateful to God as any iniquity whatever; yea, as bad as idolatry, or making use of the teraphim, as is the word here; of which see Hos 3:4 than which nothing is more abominable to the Lord: because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord; disregarded his command, treated it with contempt and abhorrence: he hath rejected thee from being king; not actually, for he continued to exercise kingly power and authority to his death, and was treated as a king by his subjects, and even by David, though anointed by the Lord; but the sentence of rejection was pronounced upon him, and the bestowal of the government on his posterity was cut off. (e) "peccatum divinationis", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus; "ariolandi", V. L. "magiae", Munster, Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:23 Rebellion . . . and stubbornness, sins of the heart, are as bad as the sinful practices of idolatrous pagans. • Scripture condemns witchcraft (see study note on Deut 18:10).
1 Samuel 15:23
Samuel Denounces Saul
22But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. 23For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Prone to Wander - Lord I Feel It
By Shane Idleman1.3K41:241SA 15:23PRO 22:6ACT 3:19ROM 10:9JAS 1:22JAS 4:6This sermon addresses the theme of being prone to wander, emphasizing the tendency to stray from God and the importance of returning to Him. It highlights the impact of wandering on families, the need for humility, honest self-examination, and the call to repentance and restoration. The message challenges men to lead with humility, love, and spiritual strength, emphasizing the significance of living out one's faith through actions rather than words.
Four Lessons From the Disciples
By Shane Idleman73555:591SA 15:23GAL 5:19This sermon delves into four key lessons from the disciples, focusing on the importance of self-examination, humility, perseverance, and addressing rebellion. It emphasizes the need for honest reflection, humility, and surrender to God's authority to experience true spiritual growth and power.
A Wake Up Call to Men in the Church
By Shane Idleman72938:011SA 15:23PSA 51:17PRO 27:8ISA 1:19EPH 5:251TI 3:5JAS 1:22JAS 4:61JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the theme of being prone to wander from God's path, drawing parallels to a bird leaving its nest. It delves into the consequences of wandering, especially for men as leaders in their families, highlighting the impact on marriages and children. The message calls for honest self-examination, repentance, and a return to God's ways, stressing the importance of obedience over rebellion. It challenges men to lead, love, and prioritize their families above all else, addressing issues like divorce, absent fathers, and the need for genuine, humble leadership.
Awake Thou That Sleepest - the Snare of a Rebellious Heart
By Phil Beach Jr.2627:46RebellionObedience to God1SA 15:23PRO 14:12ISA 58:11HEB 12:1JAS 4:6Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the dangers of a rebellious heart in his sermon 'Awake Thou That Sleepest - the Snare of a Rebellious Heart.' He warns that rebellion against God and others can lead to spiritual dryness and self-deception, ultimately trapping believers in a snare that hinders their growth in faith. Beach highlights the importance of hearkening to God's voice and obeying His commands, using the example of Saul's disobedience to illustrate the consequences of rebellion. He calls for a collective prayer for deliverance from rebellion and self-deception, urging the congregation to seek God's grace to overcome these snares. The sermon serves as a reminder of God's love and the necessity of humility in receiving His correction.
A Wake-Up Call to Men
By Shane Idleman938:01Responsibility of MenSpiritual LeadershipJOS 24:151SA 15:23PSA 139:23PRO 27:8MAT 5:141CO 16:13EPH 5:23COL 3:21JAS 4:101PE 5:6Shane Idleman delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Wake-Up Call to Men,' emphasizing the tendency of men to wander from their God-given roles and responsibilities. He draws parallels between a wandering bird and men straying from their spiritual nests, urging them to recognize the dangers of disobedience and pride. Idleman stresses the importance of honest self-examination and the need for men to lead their families with humility and strength, rather than succumbing to passivity and societal pressures. He challenges men to take responsibility for their actions and to seek God's guidance in their lives, highlighting the consequences of neglecting their roles as spiritual leaders. The sermon serves as a call to awaken the hearts of men to their vital responsibilities in the family and society.
Thoughts on 1 Samuel
By John Nelson Darby0Faithfulness vs. DisobedienceGod's Sovereignty1SA 2:101SA 3:191SA 8:71SA 10:11SA 15:231SA 17:451SA 24:61SA 30:61SA 31:6PSA 78:67John Nelson Darby reflects on the Book of 1 Samuel, emphasizing God's sovereignty and grace in the face of Israel's failures. He discusses how God provided Samuel as a prophet when the priesthood failed, and how the introduction of kingship marked a shift in Israel's relationship with God. The sermon highlights the contrast between Saul's disobedience and David's faithfulness, illustrating the consequences of rejecting God's authority. Darby notes that despite Israel's desolation, God's grace remains evident in His plans for David and the future of His people.
So Saul Died for His Trespass.
By F.B. Meyer0Seeking God's GuidanceObedience to God1SA 15:231CH 10:13PSA 27:14PSA 32:8PRO 3:5ISA 8:19JER 33:3MAT 7:7JHN 7:17JAS 1:5F.B. Meyer reflects on the tragic end of Saul, emphasizing his threefold trespass against God: failing to obey God's command regarding Amalek, seeking counsel from a medium, and neglecting to inquire of the Lord. Meyer warns against the modern tendencies to seek guidance from worldly sources rather than God, urging believers to cultivate a habit of waiting on the Lord for direction. He encourages the congregation to approach God with a sincere desire to know His will, assuring them that God will provide guidance to those who are willing to follow. The sermon serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking divine counsel and the dangers of turning to alternative sources for wisdom.
Because Thou Obeyest Not the Voice
By F.B. Meyer0ObedienceForgiveness1SA 15:23MAT 25:26LUK 10:31HEB 8:12JAS 4:17F.B. Meyer emphasizes the consequences of Saul's disobedience to God's voice, illustrating how unforgiven sin can haunt an individual, particularly in moments of crisis. He reflects on Saul's failure to execute God's command against Amalek, which ultimately led to his downfall, highlighting that God's mercy was still available to him had he sought it. Meyer contrasts Saul's situation with the assurance of the new covenant, where God promises to forget our sins when we repent. He warns that sins of omission can weigh heavily on our consciences, just as much as active transgressions, and stresses the importance of seeking forgiveness for both. The sermon serves as a reminder of the need for humility and repentance in the face of our failures.
A Time to Do Nothing
By David Wilkerson0Obedience to GodFaith1SA 10:11SA 13:51SA 15:231SA 16:14PSA 62:8PSA 115:11PRO 3:5ISA 41:21HEB 11:61PE 1:7David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of waiting on God through the story of Saul, who, despite being anointed and blessed by God, fell into disobedience and despair when faced with overwhelming circumstances. Saul's pivotal moment came when he chose to act out of fear rather than faith, leading to his downfall and loss of God's favor. Wilkerson warns that impatience and unbelief can lead to legalism, loss of discernment, and ultimately, spiritual destruction. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's timing and to do nothing but pray in times of crisis, as true victory comes from reliance on God. Wilkerson concludes with the reminder that Jesus offers deliverance from the chains of unbelief and legalism.
The Making of a Prophet
By T. Austin-Sparks0Prophetic MinistryIdentity in ChristGEN 3:24EXO 4:10NUM 11:14NUM 12:3DEU 18:151SA 8:51SA 15:23ACT 7:222CO 1:92CO 2:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that prophetic ministry is an eternal function rooted in God's divine counsel, not merely a role one can adopt. He illustrates this through the symbolism of the Cherubim and the life of Moses, highlighting that true prophets are shaped by their experiences and must undergo a process of self-emptying to embody God's thoughts. Sparks argues that the identity of the prophet is inseparable from their message, and that genuine prophetic ministry arises from a deep, personal relationship with God, rather than academic training. He stresses the importance of humility and the necessity for prophets to be molded by their trials, ultimately becoming living expressions of God's truth. The sermon concludes with the idea that prophetic ministry is a life lived in alignment with God's will, rather than a set of teachings or doctrines.
The Principle of Control
By J. Hampton Keathley III01SA 15:23PRO 29:15ROM 13:1EPH 6:11TI 3:4HEB 13:17J. Hampton Keathley III delves into 'The Problem of Rebellion,' emphasizing the necessity of controls due to the inherent rebellion in all individuals as a result of the fall and sinful nature. The sermon explores various forms of rebellion, the importance of godly authority in different spheres of life, and the role of institutions like government, family, and church in maintaining order and protection against rebellion. Keathley highlights the need for parents to exercise control to foster obedience and prevent rebellion in children, both actively and passively.
The Curse of Disobedience
By John Hames01SA 15:23EZK 3:20MAT 7:21John Hames emphasizes the importance of obedience in the Christian walk, highlighting how disobedience can lead to destruction and separation from God. He warns that past obedience does not excuse present disobedience, stressing the need for continual submission to God's will. Hames draws examples from the Bible, showcasing the consequences of disobedience from Adam and Eve to Saul, illustrating the severe outcomes of rebellion. He echoes Jesus' words that true entrance into the kingdom of heaven is through doing the will of the Father, not just professing faith.
"The Lord Is With Him" (1 Samuel 16:18)
By T. Austin-Sparks0WorshipCourageDivine PresenceEXO 4:231SA 15:231SA 16:18PSA 3:1PSA 22:3PSA 42:5PSA 69:9PSA 114:2ACT 10:38PHP 1:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of David's life as a man after God's own heart, highlighting six key attributes: his skill in worship, courage, warrior spirit, prudence in speech, and comeliness, all culminating in the profound truth that 'the Lord is with him.' David's worship began in solitude, shaping his character and leading to public praise, while his courage stemmed from a deep faith in God. As a warrior, he fought for God's honor, and his prudent speech reflected a teachable spirit. Ultimately, David's life exemplified a deep relationship with God, which was evident to others, showcasing the transformative power of divine presence.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry - This is no translation of those difficult words, כי חטאת קסם מרי ואון ותרפים הפצר ki chattath kesem meri veaven utheraphim haphtsar. It appears to me that the three nouns which occur first in the text refer each to the three last in order. Thus, חטאת chattath, Transgression, refers to און aven, Iniquity, which is the principle whence transgression springs. קסם kesem, Divination, refers to תרפים teraphim, consecrated images or telesms, vulgarly talismans, used in incantations. And מרי meri, Rebellion, refers evidently to הפצר haphstar, Stubbornness, whence rebellion springs. The meaning therefore of this difficult place may be the following: As transgression comes from iniquity, divination from teraphim, and rebellion from stubbornness, so, because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, he hath also rejected thee from being king. All the versions are different.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,.... Or divination (e), in whatsoever way it was exercised; for there were various sorts of it among the Heathens, and all condemned by the law of God, Deu 18:10. Now rebellion against God, or disobeying his commands, though in things otherwise, were they not forbidden by him, lawful to be done, is as heinous a sin as to be guilty of witchcraft, or any kind of divination forbidden by the law of God, and deserves as sore a punishment: and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry: for a man, when he has committed a sin, to persist in it obstinately, or to vindicate himself in it, and insist on his innocence, which was Saul's case, is as hateful to God as any iniquity whatever; yea, as bad as idolatry, or making use of the teraphim, as is the word here; of which see Hos 3:4 than which nothing is more abominable to the Lord: because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord; disregarded his command, treated it with contempt and abhorrence: he hath rejected thee from being king; not actually, for he continued to exercise kingly power and authority to his death, and was treated as a king by his subjects, and even by David, though anointed by the Lord; but the sentence of rejection was pronounced upon him, and the bestowal of the government on his posterity was cut off. (e) "peccatum divinationis", Pagninus, Montanus, Vatablus; "ariolandi", V. L. "magiae", Munster, Tigurine version.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:23 Rebellion . . . and stubbornness, sins of the heart, are as bad as the sinful practices of idolatrous pagans. • Scripture condemns witchcraft (see study note on Deut 18:10).