1. Israel Demands a King!

2. Disillusionment The desire for change is often rooted in disillusionment. The sons of Samuel were not faithful, but turned aside after dishonest gain, taking bribes and perverting justice (1 Sam. 8:1– 5). Sin among God’s people gives the enemy an occasion to blaspheme (2 Sam. 12:13–14; Rom. 2:17–24).

3. Disillusionment This is true, not only regarding spiritual leaders, but disciples in general (1 Tim. 5:14–15; 6:1–2). Let us, therefore, strive to set a proper example (1 Tim. 4:11–16; Titus 2:6–8).

4. Conformity The desire for change is often rooted in a spirit of conformity: Israel wanted a king to be like the surrounding nations (1 Sam. 8:4– 8, 19–22). Foreshadowing the establishment of a monarchy, Moses emphasized the necessity of trusting in God and relying upon His word (Deut. 17:14–20).

5. Conformity Unfortunately, Israel’s desire for a king reflected a spirit of compromise and concession, not only regarding prevailing political forms, but also popular idolatrous practices (Ezek. 20:30–32).

6. Conformity The people of God should be distinctive, set apart from the corruptions of the world (Exod. 19:5–6; Num. 23:9–10; 2 Cor. 6:14–18; 1 Pet. 2:9–12). The loss of such distinctiveness results in the loss of divine favor (Num. 25:1–9; Deut. 4:1–4; 1 Kings 18:17–18; Hos. 13:9–11).

7. Shortsightedness The desire for change is often rooted in short-sightedness (1 Sam. 8:10–22). In contrast, Jesus exhorted His disciples to “Count the cost!” (Luke 14:25–33). Let us look, not on the things which are seen, but on the things which are not seen, focusing upon the things which are eternal (2 Cor. 4:16–18).

8. Conclusion Individually, may we be like Moses, who chose the path of obedience, considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than earthly pleasure or possessions, because he looked to the reward (Heb. 11:24–26). Collectively, may we stand firm and remain faithful to the pattern revealed in the N. T. (2 Thess. 2:13–15; 2 Tim. 1:13–14).