Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for June 26, 2016

“The King Issue and You” 1 Samuel 7:3-8:22 Bible Study 06/26/16

After the episode of the ark and its return to Israel, the focus of 1 Samuel turns again to the prophetic ministry of Samuel. Chapter 7 records his courageous call for covenant faithfulness and his leadership in the conquest of the Philistines. In chapter 8, we encounter Israel’s demand for a king and the LORD’s response. This chapter challenges us today with reference to where our ultimate allegiance is placed.

I. Samuel’s elevation (7:3-17)

-putting away of idols
-Philistines subdued
-Samuel’s circuit

II. Samuel’s sons and their degradation (8:1-3)

-appointed by Samuel
-complete failure

III. The LORD’S interpretation (8:4-9)

-demand for a king
-Samuel’s response
-The LORD’S analysis

IV. Samuel’s admonition (8:10-18)

-repetition of “take”
-insight from Deut. 17:14-20

V. The motivation of the people (8:19-20)
-refusal to obey
-“…like all the nations…”

VI. The LORD’S authorization (8:21-22)
-instructions to Samuel
-“…make them a king.”

VII. So What?

-Because He alone is the creator and sustainer of His people, confidently pledge your ultimate allegiance to the LORD.
-Avoid the lure of idolatry.
-Assess problems spiritually rather than mechanically.
-Overcome the aversion to holiness.
-Aim to focus more on relying than prescribing.
-“The dearest idol I have known, Whate’er that idol be, Help me to tear it from Thy throne, And worship only Thee.” (Cowper)
-“Desperation is never in trouble when it rests on omnipotence.” (Davis)
-“Don’t expect the Kingdom of God to come riding in on Air Force One.” (Colson)