Saul was chosen as king in response to Israel’s demand for a monarchy so they could be like the surrounding nations. Though their request was rooted in distrust of God’s direct rule, God allowed it and selected Saul, a man who outwardly fit the people’s desires but whose later failures would contrast sharply with God’s ultimate standard for leadership.
The people demanded a king:
“Now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.”
(1 Samuel 8:5)
God told Samuel:
“They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.”
(1 Samuel 8:7)
Despite warning the people of the burdens of a monarchy, they insisted. God then directed Samuel to anoint Saul:
“There is a man of Benjamin… from his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people.”
(1 Samuel 9:2)
Saul was humble at the beginning:
“Am I not a Benjamite, of the smallest of the tribes of Israel?”
(1 Samuel 9:21)
God confirmed Saul’s selection through various signs and by pouring out His Spirit:
“Then the Spirit of God came upon him, and he prophesied among them.”
(1 Samuel 10:10)
Saul was presented to the people:
“Do you see him whom the Lord has chosen…?”
(1 Samuel 10:24)
Saul’s initial victory against the Ammonites affirmed his leadership. Yet, his reign would later be marked by disobedience and pride, leading to his rejection.
God allowed Saul to become king to teach Israel a lesson about trusting appearances over obedience. His reign set the stage for the rise of David, a man after God’s own heart.
