Samuel was displeased by the request of Israel for a king. In fact, God had a deeper objection because their desire to be like the other nations (1 Samuel 8:20), was against His will. So, Israel decided to present their case to Samuel and ask for a new king for fear of his sons becoming king over them.
Though Samuel was displeased, God made him know that the people have not rejected him but Himself who had appointed him leader over them. After all, it was the plan of God to give the people a king (Deuteronomy 17:14-20), but they were not patient enough for His perfect will.
• According to the passage, what do you think was the offense of Israelites for requesting a king?
• What are the consequences of rejecting the Kingship/Lordship of Jesus in the world today?
The fact has been established that the people of Israel wanted a king like the nations around them. It is noteworthy in the passage that the selection of Saul as Israel's king was ordered by God even though the process was not clearly stated whether it was by lot or other means.
• Why did the people of Israel insist on having a king over them in spite of the fact that God was not pleased with their request?
• What are some things Christians do that could be synonymous to rejecting God and how it can be avoided?
• Just as Israel rejected God, so also, people, and nations of the world are still rejecting the Lordship of Christ over them.
• The choice of accepting or rejecting Jesus as Saviour and Lord has its consequences.
“And ye have this day rejected your God, who himself saved you out of all your adversities and your tribulations; and ye have said unto him, Nay, but set a king over us. Now therefore present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes, and by your thousands” 1 Samuel 10:19.
