Saul
In the Bible, the name Saul (שָׁאוּל, Sha'ul) is of Hebrew origin, meaning "asked for" or "prayed for." This name is significant as it reflects the circumstances surrounding his selection as king of Israel. The Israelites requested a king to lead them, which is articulated in 1 Samuel 8:5, where they say, "Appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations." In response to this request, God chose Saul, the son of Kish, to be the first king of Israel (1 Samuel 9:17).Saul's reign, however, is marked by a complex narrative of initial promise followed by tragic decline. He is often portrayed as a tall and imposing figure (1 Samuel 9:2), which made him a seemingly suitable leader. Yet, as the story unfolds, Saul's disobedience to God's commands leads to his rejection by God (1 Samuel 15:26), and he ultimately becomes a tragic figure, consumed by jealousy and madness, particularly in his relationship with David. His story serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of leadership and the importance of obedience to divine will.
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The Challenge of Saul's Conversion
By George Verwer1.0K46:54ACT 7:54ACT 14:22HEB 11:32In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of studying a particular passage in the Bible and being overwhelmed with thoughts and challenges that came out of it. The passage he refers to is about Saul's encounter with a bright light on the road to Damascus, which leaves him blind. Saul is then led by others into Damascus, where he spends three days without eating or drinking. The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and encourages the audience to consider their own personal stories of coming to know the Lord. He also highlights the significance of Saul's conversion, which is mentioned multiple times in the Acts of the Apostles and other epistles.
The Early Success of Saul
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:051SA 13:11SA 14:7ROM 8:31In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on the early success of Saul as the king of Israel. Saul reigned for one year and then chose 3,000 men to form a standing army, with 2,000 under his leadership and 1,000 under his son Jonathan. Jonathan takes the initiative and attacks the Philistine garrison in Gibeah, while Saul blows the trumpet to announce their victory. Pastor Chuck emphasizes the importance of stepping out in faith and being available for God to work, just as Jonathan did. He highlights that God can accomplish His purposes with many or with few, as long as His presence is with them.
God Not Answering Saul
By Chuck Smith95525:041SA 28:3PSA 51:1PRO 3:5MAT 6:33JHN 10:10ROM 8:29PHP 2:5In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the story of Saul in 1 Samuel chapter 28. Saul is facing a daunting battle against the Philistines, but he is filled with fear and his heart trembles. He seeks guidance from the Lord, but God does not answer him. This is because Saul had rebelled against God and refused to obey His commands. Despite Saul's desperate attempts to seek guidance, he is left without any divine intervention.
The Anointing of Saul
By Chuck Smith95825:041SA 10:17MAT 6:33ACT 4:13In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the anointing of Saul as the first king of Israel. The people of Jabish were under threat from their enemies and sought help from the Israelites. Saul, who was chosen by God, became angry upon hearing this and took action. He cut up a yoke of oxen and sent the pieces throughout Israel, declaring that anyone who did not come to fight with him and Samuel would have the same fate as the oxen. As a result, the fear of the Lord fell upon the people and they rallied behind Saul, with 300,000 men from Israel and 30,000 men from Judah joining him.