Week 9 - Samuel Steps off the National Stage - Cornerstone Church of Christ

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Week 9 - Samuel Steps off the National Stage

1 Samuel 12

November 12, 2024 • Matthew Allen • 1 Samuel 12

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In 1 Samuel 12:1-25, Samuel delivers his farewell speech to the people of Israel, marking the end of his leadership as a prophet and judge. This pivotal moment follows the establishment of Saul as king, a significant shift in Israel's governance. As Samuel steps down from his national role, he reflects on Israel's history, emphasizing God's faithfulness in delivering them from oppression and the people's failure to trust in Him alone. Through this speech, Samuel calls the people to remember God's past provisions, warns them about the dangers of rebellion, and urges them to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. In this lesson, we will explore the lessons Samuel imparts, the consequences of abandoning God for a human king, and the enduring message of prayer and perseverance for God's people.

Week 8 - Saul Vindicated

November 5, 2024 • Matthew Allen • 1 Samuel 11

Sometime after the events of chapter 10, a new threat presents itself to Israel. This time, an enemy to the east, the Ammonites, attacked Jabesh-gilead. When the Israelites realized they were surrounded, they asked to make a covenant with Ammon. Ammon agreed to make a covenant with Jabesh if they would consent to have their right eye gouged out. It seems that Nahash, leader of the Ammonites, really wanted to humiliate the Israelites. The elders of Jabesh responded with a request for Nahash to give them seven days to find help to deliver themselves from the siege. Nahash agreed. This shows how confident he was and how little respect he had for any resistance that Israel might put up.

Week 7 - Israel Receives a King

October 29, 2024 • Matthew Allen • 1 Samuel 8—9

The chapter introduces us to Saul, the son of Kish. Saul came from the tribe of Benjamin, the smallest of the tribes, and seems to be a part of an influential family. He would be a perfect fit for what the people envisioned as a monarch reigning over the people.

Week 6 - Israel Demands a King

October 22, 2024 • Matthew Allen • 1 Samuel 8

In this lesson, we will explore a pivotal moment in Israel's history when the people sought to transition from a theocracy led by God to a monarchy, desiring a human king to rule over them. As Samuel grew older and his sons, appointed as judges, failed to uphold justice, the elders of Israel saw an opportunity to request a king, driven by their desire to be like the nations around them. Samuel was deeply troubled by their demand, viewing it as a rejection of his leadership and God's sovereignty. However, after seeking God's guidance, Samuel was instructed to warn the people about the heavy burdens that kingship would bring, including military conscription, property seizures, and heavy taxation. Despite these warnings, the people persisted, revealing their misplaced faith in earthly power rather than God's divine rule.