SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES 18-11-2018

RECAP OF OUR LAST STUDY From our last study, entitled “Saul seeks the lost asses”, we learnt that Saul was dutiful in seeking his father’s lost asses. So must we be diligent in seeking our Father’s lost sheep. God ordered Saul’s steps – from the loss of the asses to his being anointed king. If we love God and obey Him, He will order our steps too; and all things will work together for good for us. Like Samuel, leaders must respect the privacy of the people they counsel, discuss or lead.

TODAY’S STUDY: LESSON 719: SAMUEL ANOINTS SAUL KING MEMORY VERSE: …… “Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?” (1 Samuel 10:1). TEXT: 1 Samuel 10: 1-27

TODAY’S STUDY (continued) INTRODUCTION: Saul’s anointing was in answer to the nation’s request for a king. God still answers prayers; but we should ensure we pray in God’s will. One may have his request granted while there is leanness in his soul. Samuel was instructed to anoint Saul. His anointing was proof of his divine selection and approval. Whom God calls, He also qualifies.

SAUL’S PRIVATE ANOINTING BY SAMUEL 1 Samuel 10:1-9; 16:13; 24:6; 26:11; 2 Samuel 1:14 The anointing was the religious act of making the king God’s representative to the people. It symbolised the presence and power of the Holy Spirit of God in his life. Believers are anointed through the receiving of the Holy Spirit in a baptismal measure. QUESTION 1: State the purpose of Saul’s anointing – 1 Samuel 24:6; 26:9; 1 Samuel 16:13; 1 John 2:27 QUESTION 2: What was the significance of the fulfilment of the signs Samuel gave to Saul? – Deuteronomy 18:22; Jeremiah 28:9

SPIRITUAL EMPOWERMENT FOR THE NEWLY ANOINTED 1 Samuel 10:10-16; Joel 2:28; Acts 1:8 In fulfilment of Samuel’s prophecy and divine confirmation, Saul received a new heart and spirit in preparation for leadership. To be effective in ministry, Christian ministers need to be endued with the Spirit’s power and endowed with divine gifts. QUESTION 3: Why is it important for Christian leaders to be filled with the Holy Spirit? – Luke 4:18-19; Acts 4:31 QUESTION 4: Highlight specific lessons from the fact of Saul’s choice for the exalted office in Israel.

SOLEMN NOMINATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SAUL 1 Samuel 10:17-27; Numbers 17:2; Judges 7:14-26 God led Samuel to solemnly guide the selection process of a king and the lot fell on Saul who withdrew to hide among the stuff. He felt inadequate to lead a nation like Israel with so many challenges. As you lead, listen to constructive criticism, but don't spend valuable time and energy worrying about those who may oppose you. Instead, focus your attention on those who are ready and willing to help. QUESTION 5: What can we learn from Saul’s withdrawal from the general assembly? – Mark 10:45; Philippians 2:5-8

CONCLUSION Saul’s anointing was proof of his divine selection and approval. To be effective in ministry, Christian ministers must be endued with the Spirit’s power and endowed with divine gifts. Believers should not shrink from the call to service since Christ has promised to abide with us and strengthen us with the power of the Holy Ghost to do the will of God.