1 Samuel 13 & 15 – THE SAUL IN US
I would be glad if the apostles John, Peter and Paul were members of my local church.
I wouldn’t mind if Rahab, Esther or Ruth worshiped with our congregation.
I’d be delighted if Timothy, David or Mark were part of our Sunday gathering.
But I don’t think I’d be too happy if King Saul were to be in our assembly of believers!
For the prophet Samuel, Saul was trouble with a capital “T”! He caused the prophet much grief.
We must realize that, like Saul, we sinners. We must realize that we have the same capacity to sin as Saul. We must realize that, very possibly, some of Saul’s sins are our sins! We must examine our lives to make sure that there are none of the characteristics of Saul in our lives. We must watch out for:
IMPATIENCE – 1 Samuel 13:8-9
Saul was having trouble with the Philistines. Samuel had told Saul to wait seven days. The seventh day was not complete and Paul was impatient. We must remember that there are times in our lives when God wants us to wait (Psalm 27:14). We must be careful not to be impatient with God’s timing, because His timing is perfect!
INVOLVEMENT – 1 Samuel 13:9-13
Saul took matters into his own hands. Samuel was told to wait, and he didn’t!
Saul took matters into his own hands because of:
1. Pressure of Circumstances Vs. 11
2. Promise delayed Vs. 11
3. Prospect of a “quick fix” or easy solution Vs. 12
What Saul did was foolish because he did not obey God! Vs. 13
IMPERFECTION – 1 Samuel 13:14
Saul did not have a perfect heart that sought after God.
We must be careful not to have a divided heart which one moment wants to please God, and the next moment wants to please ourselves. James 1:8, Matthew 6:24, Psalm 16:4
INSURRECTION (REBELLION) – 1 Samuel 15:22
Saul was given specific instruction. 1 Samuel 15:1-3
Saul did not do exactly as he was told. 1 Samuel 15:7-9
Saul tried to cover up his sin with:
1. Smooth Words 1 Samuel 15:13
2. Feigned obedience 1 Samuel 15:13
3. Blaming Others 1 Samuel 15:15
4. Offering Sacrifice 1 Samuel 15:15
Samuel made it very clear to Saul that God is more concerned about obedience to Him than anything else we could possibly do for Him. Disobedience is rebellion against God. 1 Samuel 15:22-23
INSISTENCE (STUBBORNESS) – 1 Samuel 15:23
Stubbornly insisting on having our own way is just as bad as iniquity and idolatry.
Let’s make sure that there are no characteristics of Saul inside of us!