YOUTH STS LESSON 200 ISRAEL DEMANDS FOR A KING

TEXT: 1 Samuel 8:1–22; 9:1–27; 10:1–27

MEMORY VERSE:
“And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations” (1 Samuel 8:5).

In the previous chapter, the children of Israel had been in a backslidden state for about twenty years. During this period, they were oppressed by their enemies who had kings. But through the ministry and prayer of Prophet Samuel, they were restored into fellowship with God. The Philistines that rose against them were discomfited by God. “So the Philistines were subdued, and they came no more into the coast of Israel: and the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel” (1 Samuel 7:13). Hence, Samuel judged the people from city to city till he became too old to move around.

Question 1: What is the danger of forgetting God’s past wonders?

It was unfortunate that the same Israelites, whom the Lord fought for, demanded for a king to rule over them and go to battles before them “like all the nations”. They attributed the success of those nations in battle to their military commanders. They forgot their Rock that fought for them and gave them victory over those nations that had kings (Numbers 31:8; Joshua 10:5,16). The danger of forgetting God’s past wonders is that one will lose his confidence in Him. However, God consented to their request and Saul was anointed the first king of Israel. “Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?” (1 Samuel 10:1).

ISRAEL ASKS FOR A KING

(1 Samuel 8:1–22; 2:22–24,34,35; Psalm 50:16–21; Proverbs 6:16–19; 1 Timothy 6:9–11)

While it is important to note that it was not right for the children of Israel to ask for a king like other nations, it is also good to see a fundamental problem that led to that. Samuel had judged Israel for many years but he did not train anyone for the prophetic ministry. If he did, he would have looked into their lives, corrected, mentored, and disciplined them where necessary as Elijah mentored Elisha and as Elisha disciplined Gehazi (1 Kings 19:15,16; 2 Kings 2:1–15; 5:20–27). Then, he would have known if his sons were fit for the ministry. But all he did was to make them judges over Israel.

Youth leaders should embark on training young ministers from their tender age. They should not wait for a vacant position to be filled before training them. They should enlist and identify prospective youth leaders from the youth fellowship. They should look into the affairs of their lives as they grow up. Things that ought to be corrected in their lives should be corrected. The leaders should not just think of their (youths) availability at the time they are needed but their spiritual qualities. If people who are available for a post are not capable, they should be taken through a training process. In the case of Samuel’s sons, not only did they not know how to go about the ministry, their lives did not measure up to the standard of a minister.

Question 2: What are the habits that could disqualify youths from God’s service?

“And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment” (verse 3). Samuel’s sons did many things that disqualified them. Likewise, these same things disqualify people today. In their case, they were covetous and greedy. They were not fair and truthful in judgment.

The Scripture also lists some things that disqualifies one from the service of God. They are: immorality, theft, wickedness, tale-bearing, anger and many others. The elders rejected Samuel’s sons on the basis that they walked not in his ways. Ungodly attitude in leaders will lead to contempt of the ministry (1 Samuel 2:17). God’s ministers must be holy, contented and moderate in their lifestyle (1 Timothy 6:6; 2 Timothy 2:19–21).

When the people complained to Samuel about the behaviour of his sons and the demand for a king, his disposition to it is worthy of emulation although he was displeased by their request. “But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD” (verse 6). He did not take it personal, rather, he listened to them and reported back to God. He was disciplined. He did not allow his feelings to interfere with their request. He still calmly gave them the word of God. “And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king” (verse 10).

Question 3: What lessons can we learn from the attitude of Samuel during rejection?

“And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them” (1 Samuel 8:7).

It is important to learn how to handle rejection. When people refuse to follow instructions given to them from the Lord, it should not be taken personal or take the place of God. Should there be any complaint, the complainer should be given attention and the matter should be reported to God in prayers. God’s ministers should not attempt to force people into submission.

It is noteworthy that the Israelites asked for a king, but they were not the one who selected or appointed him. “And Samuel said to all the people, See ye him whom the LORD hath chosen, that there is none like him among all the people? And all the people shouted, and said, God save the king” (1 Samuel 10:24).

However, God foretold how the king will use their resources for himself. “And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots” (1 Samuel 8:11).

The children of Israel thought they had grown to have a strong person to be their king. They must have looked around for men of great statures. God does not think or work that way. Their assessment of a king led to God appointing for them someone that suits their request. They had put God in a situation to give them a king permissively. God’s appointment at this time was their choice. They forced their own way on Him and the result was disastrous. When we force our desires on God, though He gives us our request, it could be injurious to our overall wellbeing. Therefore, we should be careful in our desires and demands from God.

SAUL SEEKS LOST ASSES

(1 Samuel 9:1–27; Matthew 21:28–30; Ephesians 6:1–3; Proverbs 11:14; Matthew 10:6,7; 22:9)

“Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a mighty man of power” (verse 1).

This chapter started with the introduction of Kish, the father of Saul. He was from the smallest family in the smallest tribe (Benjamin) of Israel (verse 21). Despite this base background, Kish was described as a mighty man of power. This meant that he did not allow his background to affect him. He trusted in the Lord, gave his best and God reckoned with him.

Question 4: Should poor background hinder a Christian youth to serve God?

Those who lack understanding of the workings of God will always blame their poor backgrounds as reasons for their failures in life. They allow it to affect them negatively. For those who have proper understanding of God’s knowledge, workings, power and promises, they will turn it around for their good. This is because they know that God “raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD’S, and he hath set the world upon them” (1 Samuel 2:8). With faith and diligence, God will grant them a fulfilled life.

For Kish, he was a mighty man of power. Little wonder God chose his goodly son to become the first king of Israel. As soon as Saul’s father sent him to search for the asses, he obeyed and went after them. Saul was a submissive, obedient and dutiful youth. He neither grumbled like some youths do (Matthew 21:28–30) nor did he go for personal business. He moved from one city to the other seeking for the asses.

He was also a considerate youth as the thought of his father’s feeling became his concern after three days’ search. This is unlike some contemporary youths who are careless about the feelings of their parents. Some could abscond from home for days or go to playgrounds for hours while leaving their school and domestic works unattended to. That is disobedience, disregard and dishonour to one’s parents (Ephesians 6:1–3). There are grave consequences for this bad attitude here on earth and in eternity if a youth fails to repent.

“Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, if we go, what shall we bring the man? For the bread is spent in our vessels, and there is not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?” (verse 7).

As Saul and his servant decided to go to Samuel for help, the need to present him gifts came to his mind. He remembered that those who minister on holy things also live by it. Some youths in the churches today are inconsiderate. They do not see the need to give tithes and offering. All they seek for is what to benefit from ministers. They are not ready to offer anything to them. Though Saul and his servant did not have much to give Samuel, they were ready to offer him what they had. Therefore, it is not out of place for members to take care of their ministers.

Question 5: Should Christian youths seek help from every prophet or so-called man of God for prayer?

Christian youths are not expected to seek help from every prophet or man of God because there are many false prophets today. “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived” (2 Timothy 3:13). They should learn how to wait on God themselves. If need be, they should seek help from their immediate leaders. God has put His power in them (Luke 10:19; James 5:16). As they counsel and pray with you in faith, you will receive solution to your challenges.

“And as they went up the hill to the city, they found young maidens going out to draw water, and said unto them, Is the seer here?” (verse 11).

As Saul approached the city, he did not know where to find Samuel. He then asked for direction from some maids who were on their way to fetch water. It is necessary to always ask for direction whenever you are confused of the way to follow. However, this should be done discreetly. Ask God to lead you and He will. “And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation” (Psalm 107:7). You may also ask for directions from men, but be prayerful for God to direct you to the right person, as many youths have been misled by wicked people. Some have lost their lives in the process. Beware! When God leads you, He will always lead you aright.

“And they went up into the city: and when they were come into the city, behold, Samuel came out against them, for to go up to the high place” (verse 14).

“Now the LORD had told Samuel in his ear a day before Saul came, saying, To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be captain over my people Israel, that he may save my people out of the hand of the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me” (verses 15,16).

God ordered the steps of Saul while he was searching for the asses. Hence, He pre-informed Samuel of a man coming next day at that same time; instructing him to anoint him as Captain over His people. God told Samuel that “he shall save my people out of the hand of the Philistines”. He also gave reason for His action: “for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me”.

Youths should note that God is concerned and cares for the welfare of His people. This should give courage to those who are hopeless and think God has forsaken them. Do not give up hope. God is in control! He will surely connect you with your helper.

SAMUEL ANOINTS SAUL AS KING

(1 Samuel 10:1–27; 9:15–17; 15:1; Daniel 2:20,21; 2 Kings 9:3; Psalm 20:6; Genesis 21:22; Deuteronomy 20:1–4; Joshua 1:8)

“Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance…?” (verse 1).

When Samuel anointed Saul, he assured him that it was God’s act to make him king. “Is it not because the Lord hath anointed thee?” This signified the release of anointing on him that will be needed for the discharge of his duties.

Question 6: What lessons can we learn from the way Saul was anointed by Samuel?

Samuel’s explanation during the ceremony pointed out some vital lessons:

1. He kissed him – this is a sign of acceptance and reverence as the manner of the Jews. Hence, we must welcome, respect and honour whomsoever the Lord appoints over us in the church and fellowship.
2. He was anointed to be a captain. This signifies that he must be ready to care, toil, and face danger. Likewise, leaders must be ready to do the same.
3. The origin of his appointment – “the Lord hath anointed thee” – means his appointment was not by self but by the Lord. He must therefore depend on Him and with the aim of glorifying Him.
4. Saul is to rule over God’s inheritance; to take care and protect it. He will order all the affairs of it for the best, and give account to God.

Samuel gave some signs which would come to pass the same day as a confirmation that he spoke as directed by God and to give Saul important lessons of life.

“Then shalt thou go on forward from thence, and thou shalt come to the plain of Tabor, and there shall meet thee three men going up to God to Bethel…” (verse 3). This was to make him know that when he got to the throne he should not forget to worship God and render due sacrifices to Him. He must be ready to share, care and give to the needy.

“And they will salute thee, and give thee two loaves of bread; which thou shalt receive of their hands” (verse 4).

This hill of God refers to the high place of God, His presence and His place of worship. This was where Saul was to be divinely influenced, filled with the Spirit of the Lord, prophesy along with the prophets and possess another heart (verse 6). To be a successful leader, you must be filled with the Holy Spirit and possess another heart, which is of God (Acts 13:22).

Samuel told Saul that after God has shown him all these signs, he would know that he is under His special guidance. He should not fear to undertake anything that belongs to his appointed office, because God is with him. Christian youths should be ready to undertake any service of God when they are called. The presence of God is a sign of strength and courage to His children (Genesis 21:22; Deuteronomy 20:1–4; Joshua 1:8,9).

“And it was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart: and all those signs came to pass that day” (verse 9).

This was to prove that all Samuel did was approved by God. God makes whosoever He calls to His service fit for it. Those He called are special; therefore, they are to wait for the outpouring of His power upon them like He did on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1–7). The presence of God’s Spirit’s power confirms His calling in our lives (Acts 1:8; 2:39). This makes a difference in our lives and ministry.

The question now is: “…Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?” (Acts 19:2).

Also, Saul applied wisdom in dealing with the issue concerning the kingdom.

Question 7: What is the place of wisdom in giving out information?

“And Saul’s uncle said, Tell me, I pray thee, what Samuel said unto you. And Saul said unto his uncle, He told us plainly that the asses were found. But of the matter of the kingdom, whereof Samuel spake, he told him not” (verses 15,16).

Saul applied wisdom not to disclose the matter of the kingdom Samuel told him. Christian youths should be wise not to disclose personal information revealed to them by God to anyone except when necessary (Proverbs 4:7; 29:11).

Apart from the display of wisdom by Saul, we saw humility in him. If he had allowed the opportunity and experiences he had to intoxicate him, he would have been boastful to his relations at this point. This could have generated envy and raised a challenge for him like that of Joseph and his brethren. Truly he had possessed another heart, to be able to keep information. A leader must learn information management.

In obedience to the word of prophet Samuel, Saul shows how to depend on God. Meanwhile, Saul went to hide himself, perhaps as a result of shyness or fear or maybe he counted himself unfit for the task. This is what usually happens when someone is called to higher responsibility. But when you put your trust in the Lord and not on self, you will surely succeed.

As Saul was introduced and presented to the people, they welcomed and accepted him. We must accept and welcome whosoever God places over us in the church and fellowship. Those who despise the anointed of God and react negatively to an appointed person were called children of Belial (verse 27). Christian youths are to avoid such company of despisers but submit to whosoever is appointed over them (1 Peter 2:13–17; Ecclesiastes 10:20; Proverbs 1:7,10,11).