1 Samuel - Odessa, Missouri Community of Christ

40 Dr. Constable's Notes on 1 Samuel 2007 Editioninference Solomon also) because of the lack of a temple. However, thehistorian was writing from a later perspective when religion had becomesyncretistic, and the high places were a snare to the people." 121This section closes with another reference to Saul's humility (v. 16; cf. Phil 2:8; James4:10; 1 Pet. 5:6).3. The choice of Saul by lot 10:17-27"Saul's rise to kingship over Israel took place in three distinct stages: Hewas (1) anointed by Samuel (9:1—10:16), (2) chosen by lot (10:17-27),and (3) confirmed by public acclamation (11:1-15). 122Saul's anointing had been private, but his choice by lot was public.Mizpah was the scene of Israel's previous spiritual revival and victory over the Philistines(7:5-13). Perhaps Samuel chose this site for Saul's public presentation because of thoseevents. As we have noted, the tabernacle may have been there as well. Samuel took theopportunity to remind Israel that Yahweh was Israel's real deliverer so the people wouldnot put too much confidence in their new king (v. 18; cf. Exod. 20:2; Deut. 5:6; Judg.6:8-9). He also reminded them of their rebellion against God's will (v. 19). 123The lot (v. 20) showed all Israel that Saul was God's choice, not Samuel's (cf. Josh. 7:14-18). That is, he was the king God permitted (Prov. 16:33). Was Saul hiding because hewas humble or because he was afraid to assume the mantel of leadership? My judgmentis that he was humble since there are other indications of this quality in chapters 9 and 10(cf. Prov. 25:6-7).". . . there seems to have been a modesty that was combined with a shytemperament." 124"If Saul had been an ambitious person, he would have been at the center ofactivity; and, even if he had been only an average person, he would at leasthave been available on the fringes of the crowd. Saul, however, hadhidden himself, so that he would not be found." 125However, Saul may also have been wisely reluctant to assume the role andresponsibilities of Israel's king. The Lord had chosen Saul (v. 24) because He wanted himto be His instrument. Saul had the potential of becoming a great king of Israel.Consequently, Samuel commended him, and most of the people supported him (vv. 24,27). They cried, "Long live the king!"121 Heater, p. 126.122 Youngblood, p. 623.123 See Bruce C. Birch, "The Choosing of Saul at Mizpah," Catholic Biblical Quarterly 37:4 (1975):447-54.124 Baldwin, p. 90.125 Wood, Israel's United . . ., p. 81.