Saul's Leadership is Established

Nothing much had changed for Saul after his public anointing. What is needed is an opportunity for him to step up and demonstrate his ability and authority. A challenge by the Ammonites will provide the occasion. They threaten Israel at the city of Jabesh-gilead on the east side of the Jordan river where the two tribes of Gad and Rueben along with half the tribe of Manasseh are located. Being so threated, these tribes are in serious trouble and need help.

Saul steps up and issues a call for the men of Israel to assemble as an army to oppose the enemy. Saul's leadership results in great victory over the Ammonites and the nation is now ready to recognize Saul as their king. The leadership of the nation passes from Samuel to Saul, as Samuel confirms Saul's appointment and gives his farewell address. He reminds them that instead of crying out to the Lord for deliverance, the nation cried out for a king. Saul is the king by divine appointment, yet he is king because they had rejected the Lord. God is willing to be gracious and bless them if they will be obedient. A sign is given them to emphasize the seriousness of what they have done in their rejection and request. Samuel exhorts the people to commit themselves to wholehearted faithfulness from this point on, as they cannot change the past. Israel should be encouraged by the faithfulness of the Lord and serve Him without miring down.

God cannot and will not abandon His people Israel because of His great Name.