Saul Weinreb - Let the Prophets Speak

Samuel 1:15a - War Against Amalek

Samuel charges Saul with a fateful war, go and attack and wipe out the Amalekites/  Unfortunately, Saul and the people completely miss the point.

Samuel 1:15 Intro - Who Are the Amalekites and Why Are They so Bad?

Before we learn of Saul's battle against Amalek and his failure, we must understand who Amalek was and why Saul was commanded to destroy them.

Samuel 1:14c - Saving Jonathan

Saul almost has his son executed, but the people won't let that happen.  Saul continues to double down on his mistakes, but does manage to unite the people against their enemies and establish a central monarchy.

Samuel 1:14b - Strategy Over Superstition, The Philistines are Defeated

Jonathan's strategy brings about a huge victory, despite his father's persistent reliance on superstition and stubbornness.

Samuel 1:14a - Jonathan Acts While King Saul Sits

Once again, the brave Jonathan teaches us what true faith is.  Action, not superstition, is what God wants from us.

Samuel 1:13b - The Mighty Against the Weak

The stage is set for the battle of a few unarmed Israelite farmers under the leadership of Saul and Jonathan against the might of the massive Philistine Army.

Samuel 1:13a - You Couldn’t Wait Another Minute?

We begin to see the flaws in Saul's character. Superstition, arrogance, and the failure to recognize his own limitations.

Samuel 1:12 - Samuel’s Farewell Speech

Samuel gives a farewell speech to the people and tells Israel what they need to do to be successful with their new king.  

Samuel 1:11 - Saul Proves He’s Up To the Task

Saul leads the people in a smashing victory against the Ammonites and saves a group of fellow Israelites.  He proves that he's the man for the job, and the people celebrate their new leader.

Samuel 1:10b - Long Live the King!

Samuel gathers the people of Israel and announces to the people God's choice of Saul as their new king.  The people's reaction is somewhat ambivalent, and Saul will have to prove himself.