1 Samuel 14

Warren Wiersbe · Citado em PreceptAustin

1 Samuel 14

Wiersbe - God had called Saul to begin Israel's liberation from the Philistines, but most of the time he only followed up on what others started. In spite of all that the Lord had done for him and all that Samuel had taught him, Saul was not a man of faith who trusted the Lord and sought to glorify Him. Saul is a tragic example of the popular man of the world who tries to appear religious and do God's work, but who lacks a living faith in God and a heart to honor Him. Unfortunately, church history records the lives of too many gifted people who "used God" to achieve their own purposes, but in the end abandoned Him and ended life in disgrace.....As we study the life of Saul, we will see more and more evidence that he was what some people call a "control freak." He envied other people's success, he was suspicious of any strategy he didn't originate or at least approve, and he was ruthless when it came to removing people who challenged his leadership or exposed his folly. (Borrow Be successful) Rod Mattoon - Saul’s first defeat came because he ran ahead of the Lord. His second defeat came because he hesitated and failed to act promptly when the Lord was ready to give a great victory. In chapter fourteen, we see Jonathan is the real hero, not Saul. In the end, Saul would have his own son executed. When a Christian is not following the Lord, he treats his friends like enemies and his enemies like friends. Saul did this to others. Saul was not part of the battle and the victory because he was out of fellowship with God. This chapter reveals several stages in this battle and what happens when our fellowship with the Lord is broken. The Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground as we will see in this section. (1 Samuel Commentary - Go to page for list of multiple illustrations on page 596) Now the day came - KJV = "Now it came to pass upon a day" Things don't just happen by chance. In some mysterious way the power and providence of God superintends everything that otherwise appears to us on earth as if it "just happened to happen!" In other words, God is always behind the happenings that happen! Do you believe that is true? It is a mystery of how God sovereignly moves and yet gives His creature their free will, free choice! David Thompson - There was a day that occurred when Jonathan was moved by God to do something about the Philistines. Things happen when someone says today will be different. Today I am going to obey God. Today I am going to stand for what is right. That Jonathan, the son of Saul, said to the young man who was carrying his armor - Recall only Saul and Jonathan had armor (1Sa 13:22+) Some suggest Jonathan acts because of his father's inactivity (sitting under a pomegranate tree!). However in context Jonathan was surely stirred by the Spirit (cf 1Sa 14:6). Youngblood - “Armor-bearers in ancient times had to be unusually brave and loyal, since the lives of their masters often depended on them.” F B Meyer rightly said “God is ever on the outlook for believing souls, who will receive his power and grace on the one hand, and transmit them on the other. He chooses them, that by them he should make his mighty power known.” The writer of Chronicles adds that "the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." (2Ch 16:9). THOUGHT - The preceding truths beg the question - Is your heart completely His? If so, you are in the "line" of men like Jonathan and David, to be useful to him. As Paul writes we can make the choice to be useful to God for "if anyone cleanses himself (HERSELF) from these things, he (OR SHE) will be a vessel for honor, sanctified (SET APART), useful to the Master, prepared for every good (GOD) work. Now (PART OF BEING A VESSEL USEFUL FOR HIS WORK CALLS US TO) flee (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) from youthful lusts and pursue (present imperative see our need to depend on the Holy Spirit to obey) righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart" (2Ti 2:21-22+) Note the last clause calls us to seek an "accountability partner" who is also pursuing Jesus. Do you have one yet? If not you are more vulnerable to temptations of your enemies the world, the flesh and the devil. This is where David made his fatal mistake and left himself alone and vulnerable! (see 2Sa 11:1,2). "Come and let us cross over to the Philistines' garrison that is on the other side." - Picture the scene - vast numbers of Philistine warriors well equipped with iron weapons and chariots. And Jonathan makes this incredible statement, which sounds almost like a "death wish!" Notice he is taking only one man, not the 1000 that he had commanded in 1Sa 13:2+! This was like a suicide mission or a divinely inspired (and empowered) plan! Perhaps Jonathan recalled promises of God like Lev 26:8+ which said "five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall before you by the sword." It is notable that this was the second time Jonathan had taken the initiative against the Philistines (cf 1Sa 13:3+). In fact, it was Jonathan's foray that had stirred the anger in the Philistines. Jonathan is what we might call a "man of action!" You don’t need big numbers for victory; you need God. -- David Thompson But (term of contrast) he did not tell his father - Why not? We can only conjecture that Saul (we have already seen how his faith performed under fire) would have tried to dissuade his son, thinking such a plan was foolish and reckless. We have already seen Saul's unbelief and Jonathan's plan would have only fallen on unbelieving ears! David Thompson - When we study the Bible, it becomes very evident that when it comes to God, victory has very little to do with numbers. For example, when Jesus Christ ascended back up into heaven, He had about 120 disciples and those disciples took on the whole world (Acts 1:15). God does not need big numbers to win wars. What He looks for are a few faithful people, who are willing to follow His word. That point is very clear from this text. This is an amazing text of Scripture. Two men take on the Philistine army and they win. They win a battle that ultimately leads to great victory. There is a powerful lesson to see here and that is this: REGARDLESS OF THE NUMBER SIZE OF ENEMIES, A SMALL NUMBER OF FAITHFUL PEOPLE WHO DEPEND ON THE LORD AND STAND AGAINST THE ENEMIES WILL EXPERIENCE GREAT VICTORY.....You don’t need big numbers for victory; you need God. Take one or two people who are totally dependent on God and they can and will experience great victory. In order to experience the victory, we must be willing to step out by faith and fight, but all we do need for the victory is God on our side. 1 Samuel 14:1-15 UNLEASHING GOD'S POWER The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. --2 Chronicles 16:9 God saw the Israelite soldiers cowering in fear before the Philistine invaders. He must not have liked what He saw. But He didn't step in to help the Israelites -- until Jonathan and his armor bearer took daring action. God also saw the people in a mountain area of Haiti, in the early 1940s, who were living in poverty and spiritual bondage and voodooism. He didn't like what He saw. But He didn't intervene until Wallace Turnbull started living and working among them. Wallace taught them to farm more efficiently and to read and write. He treated their diseases. And he told them about Jesus. As a result of his initial work, thousands of people in that area have become Christians. Over 40,000 children are being given a Christian education. These results came because God unleashed His power and blessed the efforts of Wallace and those who helped him. God often unleashes His power through His people. The prophet said, "For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him" (2 Chronicles 16:9). The power of God will be unleashed To meet the world's needs, f we will just step out out in faith And follow when He leads. --Sper If we attempt great things for God, we can expect great things from God. Be An Armor-Bearer Do all that is in your heart. Go then; here I am with you. — 1 Samuel 14:7 Today's Scripture: 1 Samuel 14:1-14 The Israelites and the Philistines were at war. While Saul relaxed under a pomegranate tree with his men, Jonathan and his armor-bearer left camp quietly to see if the Lord would work on their behalf, believing that “nothing restrains the Lord from saving by many or by few” (1 Sam. 14:6). Jonathan and his helper were about to cross a path between two high cliffs. Armed enemy soldiers were stationed above them on both sides. They were two men against who knows how many. When Jonathan suggested they climb up after them, the armor-bearer never flinched. “Do all that is in your heart,” he told Jonathan. “I am with you, according to your heart” (v.7). So the two climbed the cliff, and with God’s help they overcame the enemy (vv.8-14). We have to admire this courageous young armor-bearer. He lugged the armor up that cliff and stayed with Jonathan, following along behind and killing those Jonathan wounded. We give the help that pastors need For burdens they must bear When we entrust them to the Lord And hold them up in prayer. —D. De Haan Leaders are their best when people get behind them. NOTHING CAN HINDER THE LORD SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 14:1–15 - E F Hallock TEXT: “For nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few” (1 Sam. 14:6c). INTRODUCTION: Jonathan was a man of faith and action inspired by faith in the Lord. David, likewise. Therefore “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David” (1 Sam. 18:1). I. Jonathan’s faith (1 Sam. 14:6). A. “The Lord will work for us.” B. “Nothing can hinder the Lord.” C. “Come, let us go.” II. Jonathan and his armor bearer. A. His armor bearer’s faith (1 Sam. 14:7). “Behold, I am with you, as is your mind, so is mine.” B. Jonathan’s test (1 Sam. 14:9–12). “If they [the Philistines] say ‘Wait …’ then we will stand still in our place and we will not go up to them.” “If they say, ‘Come up …’ we will go up; for the Lord has given them into our hand.” “The Philistines said, ‘… Come up to us and we will show a thing.’ ” “Jonathan said to his armor bearer, ‘Come up after me; for the Lord has given them into the hand of Israel.’ ” III. Faith is the victory. A. Jonathan and his man climbed up on their hands and feet. B. There were twenty Philistines. “They fell before Jonathan” and his armor bearer “finished them off.” C. The Philistine defeat in this fortified spot created panic throughout the whole Philistine army. CONCLUSION: God wrought a great victory with two men of faith. He still does so today with men who put their faith into action. 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was staying in the outskirts of Gibeah under the pomegranate tree which is in Migron. And the people who were with him were about six hundred men, the outskirts of Gibeah 1Sa 13:15,16 Isa 10:28,29 a pomegranate: Jdg 20:45. 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Pomegranate with Fruit SAUL SITTING IN THE SHADE! Saul was staying in the outskirts of Gibeah under the pomegranate (rimmon) tree (pix) which is in Migron (near Gibeah) - Is there not a touch of irony here? Jonathan going forth to battle, while Saul sits under a shade tree! Gibeah was Saul's hometown and "home base" and about an hour away from the camp of the Philistines and about 3 miles SW of Geba. Jonathan was apparently still camped at the Philistine garrison he had captured at Geba (1Sa 13:3, 16). And the people who were with him were about six hundred men - Recall that in 1Sa 13:2 there were "3,000 men of Israel." Presumably the deserters had thinned his ranks! Rod Mattoon - While Jonathan is fighting the battle, Saul was doing nothing. He was unaware of the battle that was taking place. What a picture of many Christians today! They are ignorant of the battles, the struggles that a church, the missionaries, and the people in the church are facing. For this reason it is important to be faithful to the services and know what is going on. Don’t shut God out of your life with the activities of your life. In verse one, we find the first use of the word “armour” in the KJV Bible. If we are going to be victorious Christians, we must make full use of the armour that God has provided for us. {See the Special Study on “The Battles of Believers” for more insights about the armour of the Christian at the end of Chapter 21 on page 180 in the following link - Mattoon gives a summary of our battles and our weapons in warfare - you might want to take a moment and review this chapter} (1 Samuel Commentary - Go to page for list of multiple illustrations on page 596) Brian Bell - Jonathan, not Saul, was the true leader in Israel. The contrast between the 2 is striking:1 Saul was sitting while Jonathan was attacking. Saul trusted his growing army while Jonathan God & did not depend on #’s. Saul watched things happen, but Jonathan made things happen. Pomegranate (07416) rimmon Meaning "pomegranate," rimmôn first appears in the description of the priestly garments, which had pomegranates made of blue and purple colors of thread (Exo. 28:33f; 39:24ff). There were artificial pomegranates made of bronze on the capitals of the two columns, named Jachin and Boaz, in the Temple (1 Ki. 7:18, 20, 42; 2 Chr. 3:16; 4:13; Jer. 52:22f). The pomegranate fruit was among the items the spies brought as specimens of the abundance of the land of Canaan (Num. 13:23). Their juice was used to make wine and to flavor drinks (Song 8:2). In fact, "pomegranates" were among the foods the Israelites missed in the wilderness (Num. 20:5), but the Promised Land was a land of abundance and blessing (Deut. 8:8). The temples of the head are compared to the beauty of a slice of pomegranate fruit (S.S. 4:3; 6:7). Rimmôn also designated the pomegranate tree (1 Sam. 14:2; S.S. 4:13; Joel 1:12; Hag. 2:19)." (Complete Biblical Library) Note the pomegranates intermixed with the golden bells on the hem of the priest's garment n the picture below. Pomegranate (See picture) (Wikipedia article) A shrub or small tree growing 5 to 10 m (16 to 33 ft) high, the pomegranate has multiple spiny branches and is long-lived, with some specimens in France surviving for 200 years.[4] and produced a fruit that abounded in the land of Canaan (1Sa 14:2), and was the fruit brought by the spies to show the fruitfulness of the land of Canaan (Nu 13:23). Figures of this fruits were embroidered on the ephod (Ex. 28:33, 34; 39:24 and were carved on the pillars of the temple (1Ki 7:18, 20, 42; Jer. 52:22, 23). Wine was made of pomegranate (Song 8:2) The modern French term for pomegranate, grenade, has given its name to the military grenade (note) Rimmon - 25v - Exod. 28:33; Exod. 28:34; Exod. 39:24; Exod. 39:25; Exod. 39:26; Num. 13:23; Num. 20:5; Deut. 8:8; 1 Sam. 14:2; 1 Ki. 7:18; 1 Ki. 7:20; 1 Ki. 7:42; 2 Ki. 25:17; 2 Chr. 3:16; 2 Chr. 4:13; Cant. 4:3; Cant. 4:13; Cant. 6:7; Cant. 6:11; Cant. 7:12; Cant. 8:2; Jer. 52:22; Jer. 52:23; Joel 1:12; Hag. 2:19 1 Samuel 14:3 and Ahijah, the son of Ahitub, Ichabod's brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest of the LORD at Shiloh, was wearing an ephod. And the people did not know that Jonathan had gone. BGT 1 Samuel 14:2 καὶ Σαουλ ἐκάθητο ἐπ᾽ ἄκρου τοῦ βουνοῦ ὑπὸ τὴν ῥόαν τὴν ἐν Μαγδων καὶ ἦσαν μετ᾽ αὐτοῦ ὡς ἑξακόσιοι ἄνδρες LXE 1 Samuel 14:2 And Saul sat on the top of the hill under the pomegranate tree that is in Magdon, and there were with him about six hundred men. KJV 1 Samuel 14:2 And Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which is in Migron: and the people that were with him were about six hundred men; NET 1 Samuel 14:2 Now Saul was sitting under a pomegranate tree in Migron, on the outskirts of Gibeah. The army that was with him numbered about six hundred men. CSB 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was staying under the pomegranate tree in Migron on the outskirts of Gibeah. The troops with him numbered about 600. ESV 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was staying in the outskirts of Gibeah in the pomegranate cave at Migron. The people who were with him were about six hundred men, NIV 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was staying on the outskirts of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree in Migron. With him were about six hundred men, NLT 1 Samuel 14:2 Meanwhile, Saul and his 600 men were camped on the outskirts of Gibeah, around the pomegranate tree at Migron. NRS 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was staying in the outskirts of Gibeah under the pomegranate tree that is at Migron; the troops that were with him were about six hundred men, NJB 1 Samuel 14:2 Saul was on the outskirts of Geba, sitting under the pomegranate tree that stands near the threshing-floor; the force with him numbered about six hundred men. NAB 1 Samuel 14:2 (Saul's command post was under the pomegranate tree near the threshing floor on the outskirts of Geba; those with him numbered about six hundred men. YLT 1 Samuel 14:2 And Saul is abiding at the extremity of Gibeah, under the pomegranate which is in Migron, and the people who are with him, about six hundred men, Ahijah: 1Sa 22:9-12,20, called Ahimelech Ichabod's: 1Sa 4:21 wearing: 1Sa 2:28 Ex 28:26-32 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: 1 Samuel 2:28 ‘Did I not choose them from all the tribes of Israel to be My priests, to go up to My altar, to burn incense, to carry an ephod before Me; and did I not give to the house of your father all the fire offerings of the sons of Israel? Ephod on the High Priest A PRIEST WITH AN EPHOD and Ahijah ("brother of the LORD"), the son of Ahitub, Ichabod's brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest of the LORD at Shiloh, was wearing an ephod (epod) - Ahijah was in the line of the priest, specifically in the line of Eli who God had prophesied would not endure (see their fate except for one son named Abiathar - 1Sa 22:18-19). The ephod was a priestly garment and as shown above was secured in place by a belt around the waist. As the picture shows the apron-like ephod had upon it a breastplate of judgment (12 precious stones, each engraved with a tribe's name, colorfully and ornately displayed) with pouches used to carry certain items (Urim and Thummim or lots [Wikipedia] - see Ex 28:5-13+, cf (Lv 8:8; Nu 27:21; Dt 33:8; 1Sa 28:6; Ezra 2:63; Ne 7:65) that were used by the priest to determine the will of the LORD. Note that there is no statement that Saul actually asked the priest to use these items to determine the will of the LORD!

1 Samuel 14

Wiersbe - The spiritual conditions of our hearts are revealed not only by the actions we perform but also by the words we speak. "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:34). When you read King Saul's words recorded in Scripture, they often reveal a heart controlled by pride, foolishness, and deceit. He would say foolish things just to impress people with his "spirituality," when in reality he was walking far from the Lord. A foolish vow (1 Sam. 14:24-35). Saul's heart was not right with God and he foolishly forced his army to agree to a vow of fasting until evening (v. 24)....If the Lord commands it, then He would give the strength needed, but God gave Saul no such commission.(Borrow Be successful) Hard-pressed (taskmaster, drive hard)(05065) nagas "connotes the exertion of demanding oppressive pressure for payment or labor" (TWOT). Thus it means to press hard, distress, exert demanding (oppressive) pressure (for payment or labor). Nagas describes the Egyptian taskmasters who afflicted Israel, even ceasing to give straw to make bricks (Ex 3:7, 5:6, 10, 13, 14). In the seventh year law directed creditors not to demand payment during that year (Dt 15:2-3). Isaiah used nagas in Isa 3:5 to describe the people of Judah who will be oppressed because of their sin against God (cf Isa 3:12). Isaiah sees God breaking the yoke of Israel's oppressors in the future when they will even "rule over their oppressors." In Zechariah 10:4 nagas is actually applied to the "Cornerstone" Messiah Who will have authority over all rulers (nagas). David Thompson - On June 24, 1876, Lieutenant Colonel George A. Custer led some 600 trail-worn troops of the 7 th U.S. Cavalry toward the Sioux-Cheyenne camp located along the Little Bighorn River in the Montana territory. Custer’s command from General Alfred Terry was to simply locate the Indians and wait for his arrival. Custer decided to disobey the order and decided to split his regiment into three battalions to fight the Indians in a three-pronged assault. The Indians were ready and willing to fight and they quickly trapped Custer and his 267 men. On that fateful morning of June 25, 1876, General Custer and 200 of his men were killed and 60 were wounded, most of whom later died. All of this happened because of Custer’s disobedience, pride and stupidity. When you read the historical accounts of Custer’s Last Stand at the Little Bighorn, you think of a tragedy that could have been avoided if it had not been for the pride and foolishness of Custer. If he would have only waited and not been so concerned about making a name for himself, he could have won that battle that took his life and the life of many of his men. There is a leader in Israel’s history that did dumber things than Custer ever thought about doing. His name was King Saul. King Saul had been sovereignly permitted by God to become the first King of Israel. It wasn’t too long after he became King that he started doing a series of foolish things that will eventually cost him his reign and his life. GOD IS SOVEREIGN OVER POLITICAL LEADERS WHO SAY AND DO FOOLISH THINGS AND AT TIMES HE WILL SOVEREIGNLY INTERVENE TO OVERRULE THEIR STUPIDITY. 1 Samuel 14:25 All the people of the land entered the forest, and there was honey on the ground. all: De 9:28 Mt 3:5 honey: Ex 3:8 Nu 13:27 Mt 3:4 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries HONEY ABOUNDED BUT ISRAEL BOUND All the people of the land entered the forest, and there was honey on the ground - This was wild honey, which to this day abounds in Judea; and bursting from the comb, runs down the hollow trees, rocks, etc. Honey was found to abound, but Israel was bound by Saul's foolish oath. Who provided the honey for the tired, hungry Hebrew soldiers? That's rhetorical. Clearly it was a provision from Yahweh. 1 Samuel 14:26 When the people entered the forest, behold, there was a flow of honey; but no man put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath. the people: Ec 9:2 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries HONEY, HONEY EVERYWHERE BUT NOT A DROP DID THEY EAT When the people entered the forest, behold, there was a flow of honey - The writer emphasizes the abundance of honey, a great energy source in the time of battle. This picture recalls the prophetic words of Moses that Israel would come to a “land flowing with milk and honey” (Ex. 3:8+). The honey was Yahweh's provision for His people, but Saul "short-circuited" God's provision! but no man put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath - Fear of man, in this case Saul, prevented all from reviving themselves with God's abundant provision. Rod Mattoon - Honey was found in the woods, but no one would touch it. Honey would have done wonders for these soldiers. It contains 35% protein, B, C, D and E vitamins. It promotes energy and healing. It also combats depression and is used as an antiseptic and salve for burns and injuries. It is very good for a person. Related Resources: Honey - dictionary articles Honey - Wikipedia Why was Israel called the land of milk and honey? | GotQuestions.org 1 Samuel 14:27 But Jonathan had not heard when his father put the people under oath; therefore, he put out the end of the staff that was in his hand and dipped it in the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth, and his eyes brightened. his eyes: 1Sa 14:29 30:12 Pr 25:26 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JONATHAN SAMPLES HONEY AND IS REVIVED But Jonathan had not heard when his father put the people under oath; therefore, he put out the end of the staff that was in his hand and dipped it in the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth, and his eyes brightened - As "fate" would have it, everyone but Jonathan had heard the foolish decree of his father. How he did not know is not stated. Recall that when the forces were numbered Jonathan was not found and it is very possible that is when Saul issued the binding order of "no honey."

1 Samuel 14

Wiersbe - One of the marks of a true leader is knowing when to act, and Saul had wasted time watching the battle from a distance and failing to seek the mind of the Lord. (Borrow Be successful) 1 Samuel 14:31 They struck among the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon. And the people were very weary. Aijalon: Jos 10:12 19:42 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Michmash to Aijalon Courtesy ESV Global Study Bible They struck among the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon - Note in the map Michmash on the east about 15 miles from Aijalon on the east. So the victory was great but could have been greater had Saul allowed the men to eat honey! And the people were very weary - This is an understatement and repeats (but adds "very") the statement from 1Sa 14:28 that the people were weary. And in 1Sa 14:24 they were described as "hard-pressed (nagas)." This repetition of the men's condition would seem to be the writer's way of emphasizing how foolish Saul's decision had been to withhold food from his forces. 1 Samuel 14:32 The people rushed greedily upon the spoil, and took sheep and oxen and calves, and slew them on the ground; and the people ate them with the blood. rushed greedily: 1Sa 15:19 the people: The people having abstained from food the whole of the day, and being now faint through hunger and fatigue, they flew upon the cattle, and not taking time to bleed them properly, they eagerly devoured the flesh with the blood, directly contrary to the law--another bad effect of Saul's rash adjuration. eat: Ge 9:4 Lev 3:17 Lev 7:26-27 Lev 17:10-14 Lev 19:26 De 12:16,23,24 Eze 33:25 Ac 15:20,29 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Leviticus 3:17 ‘It is a perpetual statute throughout your generations in all your dwellings: you shall not eat any fat or any blood.’” Leviticus 7:26-27 (EATING BLOOD > CUT OFF!) ‘You are not to eat any blood, either of bird or animal, in any of your dwellings. 27 ‘Any person who eats any blood, even that person shall be cut off from his people.’” Leviticus 17:10-14 ‘And any man from the house of Israel, or from the aliens who sojourn among them, who eats any blood, I will set My face against that person who eats blood and will cut him off from among his people. 11 ‘For (EXPLAINS WHY THEY WERE NOT TO EAT THE BLOOD-IT HAD A DEEP SPIRITUAL MEANING) the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood (REPRESENTING LIFE) by reason of the life that makes atonement.’ 12 “Therefore I said to the sons of Israel, ‘No person among you may eat blood, nor may any alien who sojourns among you eat blood.’ 13 “So when any man from the sons of Israel, or from the aliens who sojourn among them, in hunting catches a beast or a bird which may be eaten, he shall pour out its blood and cover it with earth. 14 “For as for the life of all flesh, its blood is identified with its life. Therefore I said to the sons of Israel, ‘You are not to eat the blood of any flesh, for the life of all flesh is its blood; whoever eats it shall be cut off.’ Deuteronomy 12:23-25 “Only be sure not to eat the blood, for the blood is the life, and you shall not eat the life with the flesh. 24“You shall not eat it; you shall pour it out on the ground like water. 25“You shall not eat it, so that it may be well with you and your sons after you, for you will be doing what is right in the sight of the LORD. ANOTHER CONSEQUENCE OF SAUL'S FOOLISH DECREE The people rushed greedily upon the spoil, and took sheep and oxen and calves, and slew them on the ground; and the people ate them with the blood - The Hebrews are so starved (a point repeatedly made earlier) that they disobeyed the Mosaic instructions to eat no meat with blood! The reason why they are breaking God’s law and doing this evil was because of Saul’s law. As described in the passages above, to eat blood was punishable by being cut off from the people! Can you see the irony -- obedience to Saul's foolish command led the men to disobey God's perfect command! Saul in attempting to look "spiritual" actually led the people to sin against God! You might be asking, how could the people now eat and not break Saul's vow? The answer is in the timing of the vow for Saul had stated "Cursed be the man who eats food before evening," Clearly it was now evening and the absolutely famished men could now gorge themselves! But they were so hungry, they lost all control. A truly spiritual vow brings out the best in people, but Saul’s carnal vow brought out the worst. -- Warren Wiersbe Wiersbe adds that "When the sun set and ushered in a new day, the vow was no longer in force, and the men acted like animals as they fell on the spoils, killing the sheep and oxen and eating the meat with the blood." (Borrow Be successful) 1 Samuel 14:33 Then they told Saul, saying, "Behold, the people are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood." And he said, "You have acted treacherously; roll a great stone to me today." BGT 1 Samuel 14:33 καὶ ἀπηγγέλη τῷ Σαουλ λέγοντες ἡμάρτηκεν ὁ λαὸς τῷ κυρίῳ φαγὼν σὺν τῷ αἵματι καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ ἐν Γεθθεμ κυλίσατέ μοι λίθον ἐνταῦθα μέγαν LXE 1 Samuel 14:33 And it was reported to Saul, saying, The people have sinned against the Lord, eating with the blood: and Saul said, Out of Getthaim roll a great stone to me hither. KJV 1 Samuel 14:33 Then they told Saul, saying, Behold, the people sin against the LORD, in that they eat with the blood. And he said, Ye have transgressed: roll a great stone unto me this day. NET 1 Samuel 14:33 Now it was reported to Saul, "Look, the army is sinning against the LORD by eating even the blood." He said, "All of you have broken the covenant! Roll a large stone over here to me." CSB 1 Samuel 14:33 Some reported to Saul: "Look, the troops are sinning against the LORD by eating meat with the blood still in it." Saul said, "You have been unfaithful. Roll a large stone over here at once." ESV 1 Samuel 14:33 Then they told Saul, "Behold, the people are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood." And he said, "You have dealt treacherously; roll a great stone to me here." NIV 1 Samuel 14:33 Then someone said to Saul, "Look, the men are sinning against the LORD by eating meat that has blood in it." "You have broken faith," he said. "Roll a large stone over here at once." NLT 1 Samuel 14:33 Someone reported to Saul, "Look, the men are sinning against the LORD by eating meat that still has blood in it." "That is very wrong," Saul said. "Find a large stone and roll it over here. NRS 1 Samuel 14:33 Then it was reported to Saul, "Look, the troops are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood." And he said, "You have dealt treacherously; roll a large stone before me here." NJB 1 Samuel 14:33 Saul was informed, 'The people are sinning against Yahweh by eating with the blood!' He said, 'You have not kept faith! Roll me a large stone here!' NAB 1 Samuel 14:33 Informed that the people were sinning against the LORD by eating the flesh with blood, Saul said: "You have broken faith. Roll a large stone here for me." YLT 1 Samuel 14:33 And they declare to Saul, saying, 'Lo, the people are sinning against Jehovah, to eat with the blood.' And he saith, 'Ye have dealt treacherously, roll unto me to-day a great stone.' You have acted treacherously, Mt 7:5 Ro 2:1 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL REFUSES TO TAKE BLAME FOR THE SIN Then they told Saul, saying, "Behold, the people are sinning against the LORD by eating with the blood." - While their statement was correct, the reason for their sin was the fact that they had been starved by Saul. So yes, they overreacted and sinned, but they would most likely not have done so (or would have been much less likely to have done so) had they not been restricted from food by Saul. And he said, "You have acted treacherously (bagad) - NET = ""All of you have broken the covenant!" NJB = 'You have not kept faith!" CSB = ""You have been unfaithful." Saul was one to talk about being unfaithful given his failure to trust Samuel's directions and instead committing a sin by offering sacrifices to God! We are beginning to see the unraveling of the heart of this man as a leader of Israel. NET NOTE Heb “You have acted deceptively.” In this context the verb refers to violating an agreement, in this case the dietary and sacrificial regulations of the Mosaic law. The verb form is second masculine plural; apparently Saul here addresses those who are eating the animals. roll a great stone to me today - The purpose is not stated but n verse 35 Saul builds an altar and it is is possible this stone is used. Treacherously (0898) bagad apparently from an Arabic root meaning to deceive) means to act deceitfully, unfaithfully, to commit faithlessness.. This word describes a traitor, one who violates his allegiance and betrays something or someone (e.g., God). Bagad means to ‘break faith’ which speaks of one who does not honour the terms of an existing agreement. The root idea of bagad is to cover or cloak things over, and so to act covertly or falsely, perfidiously (acting untrue to what should command one’s fidelity or allegiance and adds to faithless the implication of an incapacity for fidelity or reliability!). "The verb connotes unfaithfulness in relationships like marriage (Ex. 21:8; Jer. 3:20; Mal. 2:14); Israel’s covenant with the Lord (Ps. 78:57; 119:158); friendships (Job 6:15; Jer. 3:20; Mal. 2:10); leadership (Jdg. 9:23)." (Baker) 1 Samuel 14:34 Saul said, "Disperse yourselves among the people and say to them, 'Each one of you bring me his ox or his sheep, and slaughter it here and eat; and do not sin against the LORD by eating with the blood.' " So all the people that night brought each one his ox with him and slaughtered it there. with him: Heb. in his hand, 1Sa 14:34 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries COVER UP YOUR SINS WITH ANOTHER MEAL Saul said, "Disperse yourselves among the people and say to them, 'Each one of you bring me his ox or his sheep, and slaughter it here and eat; and do not sin against the LORD by eating with the blood.' " So all the people that night brought each one his ox with him and slaughtered it there - Saul says nothing the people about confessing and repenting of their sins. God wanted contrite hearts, not cutting of their cattle! In telling them to eat keep in mind that surely they had eaten and were no longer famished. But Saul makes another foolish decree which would result in needless killing of some of their valuable livestock. Saul is demonstrating he clearly lacks godly wisdom to lead the nation! One is reminded of the words of David "For You do not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; You are not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. (Ps 51:16-17) 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first altar that he built to the LORD. BGT 1 Samuel 14:35 καὶ ᾠκοδόμησεν ἐκεῖ Σαουλ θυσιαστήριον τῷ κυρίῳ τοῦτο ἤρξατο Σαουλ οἰκοδομῆσαι θυσιαστήριον τῷ κυρίῳ LXE 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul built an altar there to the Lord: this was the first altar that Saul built to the Lord. KJV 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul built an altar unto the LORD: the same was the first altar that he built unto the LORD. NET 1 Samuel 14:35 Then Saul built an altar for the LORD; it was the first time he had built an altar for the LORD. CSB 1 Samuel 14:35 Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first time he had built an altar to the LORD. ESV 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first altar that he built to the LORD. NIV 1 Samuel 14:35 Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first time he had done this. NLT 1 Samuel 14:35 Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first of the altars he built to the LORD. NRS 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first altar that he built to the LORD. NJB 1 Samuel 14:35 Saul built an altar to Yahweh; it was the first altar he had built to Yahweh. NAB 1 Samuel 14:35 and Saul built an altar to the LORD-- this was the first time he built an altar to the LORD. YLT 1 Samuel 14:35 And Saul buildeth an alter to Jehovah; with it he hath begun to build altars to Jehovah. built: It is probable that Saul converted the great stone, on which the cattle had been slaughtered, into an altar, on which sacrifices were offered, before the people attempted to proceed any further. This we are told was the first he had built. Samuel, as a prophet and priest, had hitherto erected the altars, but Saul seems to have thought he had sufficient authority to erect one himself, without the prophet, as he had once offered sacrifice without him. 1Sa 7:9,17 Jdg 21:4 Ho 8:14 2Ti 3:5 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL'S FIRST AND ONLY ALTAR And Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first (and only) altar that he built to the LORD - There is no mention of the involvement of the man of God Samuel in this endeavor. Previously the prophet Samuel had built altars (1Sa 7:12,17). One might question whether this was a truly God honoring action for in Dt 12:13-14 we read "Be careful that you do not offer your burnt offerings in every cultic place you see, but in the place which the LORD chooses in one of your tribes, there you shall offer your burnt offerings, and there you shall do all that I command you." Some postulate that perhaps the altar was only to commemorate the LORD's victory. 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and take spoil among them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them." And they said, "Do whatever seems good to you." So the priest said, "Let us draw near to God here." BGT 1 Samuel 14:36 καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ καταβῶμεν ὀπίσω τῶν ἀλλοφύλων τὴν νύκτα καὶ διαρπάσωμεν ἐν αὐτοῖς ἕως διαφαύσῃ ἡ ἡμέρα καὶ μὴ ὑπολίπωμεν ἐν αὐτοῖς ἄνδρα καὶ εἶπαν πᾶν τὸ ἀγαθὸν ἐνώπιόν σου ποίει καὶ εἶπεν ὁ ἱερεύς προσέλθωμεν ἐνταῦθα πρὸς τὸν θεόν LXE 1 Samuel 14:36 And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines this night, and let us plunder among them till the day break, and let us not leave a man among them. And they said, Do all that is good in thy sight: and the priest said, let us draw nigh hither to God. KJV 1 Samuel 14:36 And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them. And they said, Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee. Then said the priest, Let us draw near hither unto God. NET 1 Samuel 14:36 Saul said, "Let's go down after the Philistines at night; we will rout them until the break of day. We won't leave any of them alive!" They replied, "Do whatever seems best to you." But the priest said, "Let's approach God here." CSB 1 Samuel 14:36 Saul said, "Let's go down after the Philistines tonight and plunder them until morning. Don't let even one remain!" "Do whatever you want," the troops replied. But the priest said, "We must consult God here." ESV 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and plunder them until the morning light; let us not leave a man of them." And they said, "Do whatever seems good to you." But the priest said, "Let us draw near to God here." NIV 1 Samuel 14:36 Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and plunder them till dawn, and let us not leave one of them alive." "Do whatever seems best to you," they replied. But the priest said, "Let us inquire of God here." NLT 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let's chase the Philistines all night and plunder them until sunrise. Let's destroy every last one of them." His men replied, "We'll do whatever you think is best." But the priest said, "Let's ask God first." NRS 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and despoil them until the morning light; let us not leave one of them." They said, "Do whatever seems good to you." But the priest said, "Let us draw near to God here." NJB 1 Samuel 14:36 Saul said, 'Let us go down under cover of dark and plunder the Philistines until dawn; we shall not leave one of them alive.' 'Do whatever you think right,' they replied. But the priest said, 'Let us approach God here.' NAB 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let us go down in pursuit of the Philistines by night, to plunder among them until daybreak and to kill them all off." They replied, "Do what you think best." But the priest said, "Let us consult God." YLT 1 Samuel 14:36 And Saul saith, 'Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and we prey upon them till the light of the morning, and leave not a man of them.' And they say, 'All that is good in thine eyes do.' And the priest saith, 'Let us draw near hither unto God.' RSV 1 Samuel 14:36 Then Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and despoil them until the morning light; let us not leave a man of them." And they said, "Do whatever seems good to you." But the priest said, "Let us draw near hither to God." Let us go: Jos 10:9-14,19 Jer 6:5 let us not leave: 1Sa 11:11 Jos 11:14 Then said the priest: It is evident that Ahiah, who had before been interrupted by Saul's impatience, doubted of the propriety of pursuing the Philistines that night, and properly counselled them to enquire of the Lord. Nu 27:21 Ps 73:28 Isa 48:1,2 58:2 Mal 2:7 Jas 4:8 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL'S SUGGESTION STUNTED BY PRIEST Then Saul said, "Let us go down after the Philistines by night and take spoil among them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them." - Go down would be a drop of about 2000 feet. Saul seems driven by impulse not wisdom. The Lord has already delivered them. They have already had spoils. Saul's logic makes no sense. And they said, "Do whatever seems good to you." - The people (army) supports Saul's call for a nighttime pursuit to take spoil and annihilate the Philistines. Wiersbe "Surely Saul realized that his delay at Gibeah and the imposing of the foolish vow had already cost the Israelites a great victory, so he tried to make amends. He decided to move the army that very night and be ready to surprise the Philistines early the next morning. The army gave no resistance, but Ahijah the priest wisely suggested that they pause long enough to seek the will of the Lord." (Borrow Be successful) So the priest said, "Let us draw near to God here." - The priest intervenes and calls for Saul to call upon the LORD, whether this should be done. 1 Samuel 14:37 Saul inquired of God, "Shall I go down after the Philistines? Will You give them into the hand of Israel?" But He did not answer him on that day. Shall I go: 1Sa 23:4,9-12 30:7,8 Jdg 1:1 20:18,28 2Sa 5:19,23 1Ki 22:5,15 he answered: 1Sa 28:6 Eze 14:3-5 20:3 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: 1 Samuel 28:6+ When Saul inquired of the LORD, the LORD did not answer him, either by dreams or by Urim or by prophets. SAUL SEEKS GOD BUT GOD REMAINS SILENT Saul inquired of God, "Shall I go down after the Philistines? Will You give them into the hand of Israel?" - Why did Saul inquire of God? "But the priest said, "We must consult God here." (1Sa 14:36CSB) The priest intervened! At least Saul listened to him! But He did not answer him on that day - Where is the man of God? Where is Samuel? Would not he be a good man to inquire of God? Saul seems to be bent on doing his will independent of any sage spiritual counsel. God's silence speaks volumes on His disapproval of Saul's erratic behavior and willful decisions.

1 Samuel 14

Wiersbe - Saul made another oath (v. 39), and because his heart wasn’t right nor his motive holy, he was taking the Lord’s name in vain (Ex. 20:7). (Borrow Be successful) But not one of all the people answered him - NLT = "But no one would tell him what the trouble was." Some knew that Jonathan had tasted honey (1Sa 14:26) and they must have surely been stunned by Saul's rash oath. It is sad that no one told Saul of his son's action before this oath. The implication is that the people were afraid to call forth Saul's anger and so they remained mute! And once he had made the oath, it was to late to object! 1 Samuel 14:40 Then he said to all Israel, "You shall be on one side and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side." And the people said to Saul, "Do what seems good to you." BGT 1 Samuel 14:40 καὶ εἶπεν παντὶ Ισραηλ ὑμεῖς ἔσεσθε εἰς δουλείαν καὶ ἐγὼ καὶ Ιωναθαν ὁ υἱός μου ἐσόμεθα εἰς δουλείαν καὶ εἶπεν ὁ λαὸς πρὸς Σαουλ τὸ ἀγαθὸν ἐνώπιόν σου ποίει LXE 1 Samuel 14:40 And he said to all the men of Israel, Ye shall be under subjection, and I and Jonathan my son will be under subjection: and the people said to Saul, Do that which is good in thy sight. KJV 1 Samuel 14:40 Then said he unto all Israel, Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side. And the people said unto Saul, Do what seemeth good unto thee. NET 1 Samuel 14:40 Then he said to all Israel, "You will be on one side, and I and my son Jonathan will be on the other side." The army replied to Saul, "Do whatever you think is best." CSB 1 Samuel 14:40 So he said to all Israel, "You will be on one side, and I and my son Jonathan will be on the other side." And the troops replied, "Do whatever you want." ESV 1 Samuel 14:40 Then he said to all Israel, "You shall be on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side." And the people said to Saul, "Do what seems good to you." NIV 1 Samuel 14:40 Saul then said to all the Israelites, "You stand over there; I and Jonathan my son will stand over here." "Do what seems best to you," the men replied. NLT 1 Samuel 14:40 Then Saul said, "Jonathan and I will stand over here, and all of you stand over there." And the people responded to Saul, "Whatever you think is best." NRS 1 Samuel 14:40 He said to all Israel, "You shall be on one side, and I and my son Jonathan will be on the other side." The people said to Saul, "Do what seems good to you." NJB 1 Samuel 14:40 He then said to all Israel, 'Stand on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will stand on the other.' And the people replied to Saul, 'Do as you think right.' NAB 1 Samuel 14:40 So he said to all Israel, "Stand on one side, and I and my son Jonathan will stand on the other." The people responded, "Do what you think best." YLT 1 Samuel 14:40 And he saith unto all Israel, 'Ye -- ye are on one side, and I and Jonathan my son are on another side;' and the people say unto Saul, 'That which is good in thine eyes do.' Do what seemeth: 1Sa 14:7,36 2Sa 15:15 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL COMMENCES A SECOND FOOLISH OATH Then he said to all Israel, "You shall be on one side and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side." And the people said to Saul, "Do what seems good to you." - I like the CSB paraphrase = "Do whatever you want." NLT = "Whatever you think is best." The people seem to realize what Saul wants, Saul takes (cf repetition of the verb "take" in 1Sa 8:11-17). 1 Samuel 14:41 Therefore, Saul said to the LORD, the God of Israel, "Give a perfect lot." And Jonathan and Saul were taken, but the people escaped. BGT 1 Samuel 14:41 καὶ εἶπεν Σαουλ κύριε ὁ θεὸς Ισραηλ τί ὅτι οὐκ ἀπεκρίθης τῷ δούλῳ σου σήμερον εἰ ἐν ἐμοὶ ἢ ἐν Ιωναθαν τῷ υἱῷ μου ἡ ἀδικία κύριε ὁ θεὸς Ισραηλ δὸς δήλους καὶ ἐὰν τάδε εἴπῃς ἐν τῷ λαῷ σου Ισραηλ δὸς δὴ ὁσιότητα καὶ κληροῦται Ιωναθαν καὶ Σαουλ καὶ ὁ λαὸς ἐξῆλθεν LXE 1 Samuel 14:41 And Saul said, O Lord God of Israel, why hast thou not answered thy servant this day? is the iniquity in me, or in Jonathan my son? Lord God of Israel, give clear manifestations; and if the lot should declare this, give, I pray thee, to thy people of Israel, give, I pray, holiness. And Jonathan and Saul are taken, and the people escaped. KJV 1 Samuel 14:41 Therefore Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Give a perfect lot. And Saul and Jonathan were taken: but the people escaped. NET 1 Samuel 14:41 Then Saul said, "O LORD God of Israel! If this sin has been committed by me or by my son Jonathan, then, O LORD God of Israel, respond with Urim. But if this sin has been committed by your people Israel, respond with Thummim." Then Jonathan and Saul were indicated by lot, while the army was exonerated. CSB 1 Samuel 14:41 So Saul said to the LORD, "God of Israel, give us the right decision." Jonathan and Saul were selected, and the troops were cleared of the charge. ESV 1 Samuel 14:41 Therefore Saul said, "O LORD God of Israel, why have you not answered your servant this day? If this guilt is in me or in Jonathan my son, O LORD, God of Israel, give Urim. But if this guilt is in your people Israel, give Thummim." And Jonathan and Saul were taken, but the people escaped. NIV 1 Samuel 14:41 Then Saul prayed to the LORD, the God of Israel, "Give me the right answer." And Jonathan and Saul were taken by lot, and the men were cleared. NLT 1 Samuel 14:41 Then Saul prayed, "O LORD, God of Israel, please show us who is guilty and who is innocent. " Then they cast sacred lots, and Jonathan and Saul were chosen as the guilty ones, and the people were declared innocent. NRS 1 Samuel 14:41 Then Saul said, "O LORD God of Israel, why have you not answered your servant today? If this guilt is in me or in my son Jonathan, O LORD God of Israel, give Urim; but if this guilt is in your people Israel, give Thummim." And Jonathan and Saul were indicated by the lot, but the people were cleared. NJB 1 Samuel 14:41 Saul then said, 'Yahweh, God of Israel, why did you not answer your servant today? Yahweh, God of Israel, if the fault lies with me or with my son Jonathan, give urim: if the fault lies with your people Israel, give thummim.' Jonathan and Saul were indicated and the people went free. NAB 1 Samuel 14:41 And Saul said to the LORD, the God of Israel: "Why did you not answer your servant this time? If the blame for this resides in me or my son Jonathan, LORD, God of Israel, respond with Urim; but if this guilt is in your people Israel, respond with Thummim." Jonathan and Saul were designated, and the people went free. YLT 1 Samuel 14:41 And Saul saith unto Jehovah, God of Israel, 'Give perfection;' and Jonathan and Saul are captured, and the people went out. Therefore: Both the Septuagint and Vulgate add much to this verse: [Kai eipe Saoul, Kyrie Lo Theos Israel, ti Loti ouk apekrithes to doulo sou semeron? ei en emoi e en lonathan to Luio mou he adikia, Kyrie ho Theos Israel dos delous kai ean tade eipe, dos de to lao sou Israel, dos de osioteta, k.t.l.] {Et dixit Saul ad Dominum Deum Israel; Domine Deus Israel da indicium: quid est quod non responderis servo tuo hodie? Si in me, aut in Jonatha filio meo est iniquitas hec, da ostensionem: aut si hec iniquitas est in populo tuo, da sanctitatem, etc.} "And Saul said [to the Lord God of Israel, Vulg.] Lord God of Israel [give a sign, Vulg.] Why is it that thou has not answered thy servant to-day? If the iniquity be in me, or in my son Jonathan, [O Lord God of Israel, LXX.] make it manifest; and if thou say thus, give to thy people Israel, give mercy," etc., [but Vulg. Or, if this iniquity be in thy people, give sanctification," etc.] Give a perfect lot: or, Shew the innocent, Pr 16:33 Ac 1:24 And Saul: 1Sa 10:20,21 Jos 7:16-18 Jon 1:7 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SAUL'S PRAYER TO THE LORD Therefore, Saul said to the LORD, the God of Israel, "Give a perfect lot." - NIV = Then Saul prayed to the LORD, the God of Israel, "Give me the right answer." Note that some of the translations have more explanation. For example NJB = Saul then said, 'Yahweh, God of Israel, why did you not answer your servant today? Yahweh, God of Israel, if the fault lies with me or with my son Jonathan, give urim: if the fault lies with your people Israel, give thummim.' Jonathan and Saul were indicated and the people went free." And Jonathan and Saul were taken, but the people escaped - The people were cleared, which is notable, for they were the ones who had eaten of the blood. CASTING LOTS - Nave's Topic Lev. 16:8; Num. 34:13; 36:2; Josh. 17:14; 18:6, 8, 10; 21:8; 1 Chr. 6:65; 24:31; 25:8; 26:13, 14; Neh. 10:34; 11:1; Esth. 3:7; 9:24; Psa. 22:18; Prov. 1:14; 16:33; Isa. 34:17; Ezek. 24:6; Joel 3:3; Obad. 11; Jonah 1:7; Mic. 2:5; Nah. 3:10; Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:34; John 19:24; Acts 1:17, 26; 1 Pet. 5:3 Albert Bean - Lot - Objects of unknown shape and material used to determine the divine will. Often in the Ancient Near East people, especially priests, made difficult and significant decisions by casting lots on the ground or drawing them from a receptacle. Several times Scripture mentions the practice. We do not know exactly what the lots looked like. Nor do we know how they were interpreted. We do know that people of the Old and New Testaments believed God (or gods in the case of non-Israelites or non-Christians) influenced the fall or outcome of the lots (Proverbs 16:33 ). Thus, casting lots was a way of determining God's will. One of the best examples of this use of lots is in Acts. Matthias was chosen to be Judas' successor by lot (Acts 1:26 ). The apostles' prayer immediately before shows the belief that God would express His will through this method. In the Old Testament Saul was chosen as Israel's first king through the use of lots (1 Samuel 10:20-24 ). In a similar fashion God communicated knowledge unknown to human beings through lots. Saul called for the casting of lots to determine who sinned during his day-long battle with the Philistines. Specifically, he called for the use of the Urim and Thummim (1 Samuel 14:41-42; See Joshua 7:10-15 ). Lots helped God's people make a fair decision in complicated situations. God commanded that the Promised Land be divided by lot (Numbers 26:52-56 ). Later, lots established the Temple priests' order of service (1 Chronicles 24:5-19 ). This practice continued into Jesus' day. Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, was burning incense in the holy place when the angel spoke to him. Zechariah was there because the lot fell to him (Luke 1:9 ). The awful picture of soldiers casting lots for Jesus' garments was this kind of “fair play” use of lots (Matthew 27:35 ). Proverbs teaches that the use of lots is one way to put an end to a dispute when decisions are difficult (Proverbs 18:18 ). Lots are memorialized in the Jewish Feast of Purim. Purim, the Akkadian word for lots, celebrates the frustration of Haman's plan to destroy the Jews in Persia. Haman had used lots to find the best day for the destruction (Esther 3:7 ). Finally, the word lot came to refer to one's portion or circumstance of life. The righteous could confess that God was their lot ( Psalm 16:5 ). The lot of those who violated the people of God was terror and annihilation (Isaiah 17:14 ). See Oracles; Urim and Thummim . 1 Samuel 14:42 Saul said, "Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son." And Jonathan was taken. 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Proverbs 16:33 The lot is cast into the lap, But its every decision is from the LORD. JONATHAN TAKEN BY LOTS Saul said, "Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son." And Jonathan was taken - God is in control of lots, and he took the guilty party Jonathan, even though Jonathan had acted innocently (1Sa 14:27). NET NOTE The LXX includes the following words: “Whomever the Lord will indicate by the lot, let him die! And the people said to Saul, ‘It is not this word.’ But Saul prevailed over the people, and they cast lots between him and between Jonathan his son.” 1 Samuel 14:43 Then Saul said to Jonathan, "Tell me what you have done." So Jonathan told him and said, "I indeed tasted a little honey with the end of the staff that was in my hand. Here I am, I must die!" Tell me: Jos 7:19 Jon 1:7-10 I indeed tasted a little hone 1Sa 14:27 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries JONATHAN CONFESSES AND ACCEPTS DEATH Then Saul said to Jonathan, "Tell me what you have done." So Jonathan told him and said, "I indeed tasted a little honey with the end of the staff that was in my hand. Here I am, I must die - This confession and willingness to die for a taste of honey speaks volumes about the character of Jonathan. There is little doubt we will meet him in heaven some day. NET NOTE Heb “Look, I, I will die.” Apparently Jonathan is acquiescing to his anticipated fate of death. However, the words may be taken as sarcastic (“Here I am about to die!”) or as a question, “Must I now die?” (cf. NAB, NIV, NCV, NLT). 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, "May God do this to me and more also, for you shall surely die, Jonathan." BGT 1 Samuel 14:44 καὶ εἶπεν αὐτῷ Σαουλ τάδε ποιήσαι μοι ὁ θεὸς καὶ τάδε προσθείη ὅτι θανάτῳ ἀποθανῇ σήμερον LXE 1 Samuel 14:44 And Saul said to him, God do so to me, and more also, thou shalt surely die to-day. KJV 1 Samuel 14:44 And Saul answered, God do so and more also: for thou shalt surely die, Jonathan. NET 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, "God will punish me severely if Jonathan doesn't die!" CSB 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul declared to him, "May God punish me and do so severely if you do not die, Jonathan!" ESV 1 Samuel 14:44 And Saul said, "God do so to me and more also; you shall surely die, Jonathan." NIV 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, "May God deal with me, be it ever so severely, if you do not die, Jonathan." NLT 1 Samuel 14:44 "Yes, Jonathan," Saul said, "you must die! May God strike me and even kill me if you do not die for this." NRS 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, "God do so to me and more also; you shall surely die, Jonathan!" NJB 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, 'May God bring unnameable ills on me, and worse ones too, if you do not die, Jonathan!' NAB 1 Samuel 14:44 Saul said, "May God do thus and so to me if you do not indeed die, Jonathan!" YLT 1 Samuel 14:44 And Saul saith, 'Thus doth God do, and thus doth He add, for thou dost certainly die, Jonathan.' May God do this to me: 1Sa 25:22 Ru 1:17 2Sa 3:9 19:13 for you shall surely die: 1Sa 14:39 Ge 38:24 2Sa 12:5,31 Pr 25:16 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Saul said, "May God do this to me and more also, for you shall surely die, Jonathan."- Saul again compounds his previous unwise oaths with another foolish oath! In other words Saul is saying , "Jonathan, I must certainly put you to death. If I don't, may God punish me greatly." Again, Saul shows his lack of wisdom. Note he seems to make an oath or vow, and in the subsequent description of his life it certainly appears that God is in fact punishing him greatly. Saul shows his pride for his honor and authority by being willing to go through with the vow to kill his own son. Guzik correctly assesses Saul's character at this point - Saul was willing to kill his son rather than to humbly admit that he was really at fault. Saul started out as a humble man (1 Samuel 10:21), but his once impressive humility was overtaken by pride. Matthew

1 Samuel 14

Wiersbe - The facts about the royal family are summarized in vv. 49–51, but when they are compared with other texts (1 Sam. 9:2; 2 Sam. 21:8; 1 Chron. 8:29–33; 9:39), they reveal some problems. Saul’s grandfather was Abiel and his father Kish (1 Sam. 9:1–2). Ner was his uncle and Abner (“son of Ner”) was captain of the army (14:51). Only three sons are mentioned (Jonathan, Ishvi, and Mal-chishua), while later texts speak also of Abinadab and Esh-Baal (ED: ANOTHER NAME FOR Ishbosheth)(1 Chron. 8:33; 9:39). He had two daughters, Merab and Michel, and all of these children were by his wife Ahinoam. His concubine Rizpah bore him Armoni and Mephibosheth (2 Sam. 21:8). (Borrow Be successful) NET NOTE The list differs from others. In 1 Sam 31:2 (= 1 Chr 10:2), Jonathan, Abinadab, and Malki-Shua are listed as Saul’s sons, while 1 Chr 8:33 and 1Ch 9:39 list Jonathan, Malki-Shua, Abinadab, and Eshbaal. 1 Samuel 14:50 The name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam the daughter of Ahimaaz. And the name of the captain of his army was Abner the son of Ner, Saul's uncle. the name of the captain: 1Sa 17:55 2Sa 2:8 3:27 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries The name of Saul's wife was Ahinoam the daughter of Ahimaaz. And the name of the captain of his army was Abner the son of Ner, Saul's uncle NET NOTE The word “uncle” can modify either Abner or Ner. Abner - ABNER - ab'-ner ('abhner; in 1Sa 14:50 the Hebrew has the fuller form, 'abhiner, Abiner; compare Abiram by the side of Abram; meaning, "my father is a lamp"): Captain of the host under Saul and Ishbosheth (Eshbaal). He was Saul's cousin; Ner the father of Abner and Kish the father of Saul being brothers, the sons of Abiel (1Sa 14:50 f). In 1 Ch 8:33; 9:39 the text appears to be faulty; read: And Ner begat Abner, and Kish begat Saul. According to 1 Ch 27:21 Abner had a son by the name of Jaasiel. Abner was to Saul what Joab was to David. Despite the many wars waged by Saul, we hear little of Abner during Saul's lifetime. Not even in the account' of the battle of Gilboa is mention made of him. Yet both his high office and his kinship to the king must have brought the two men in close contact. On festive occasions it was the custom of Abner to sit at table by the king's side (1Sa 20:25). It was Abner who introduced the young David fresh from his triumph over Goliath to the king's court (so according to the account in 1Sa 17:57). We find Abner accompanying the king in his pursuit of David (1Sa 26:5 ff). Abner is rebuked by David for his negligence in keeping watch over his master (ibid., 15). Upon the death of Saul, Abner took up the cause of the young heir to the throne, Ishbosheth, whom he forthwith removed from the neighborhood of David to Mahanaim in the East-Jordanic country. There he proclaimed him king over all Israel. By the pool of Gibeon he and his men met Joab and the servants of David. Twelve men on each side engaged in combat which ended disastrously for Abner who fled. He was pursued by Asahel, Joab's brother, whom Abner slew. Though Joab and his brother Abishai sought to avenge their brother's death on the spot, a truce was effected; Abner was permitted to go his way after three hundred and threescore of his men had fallen. Joab naturally watched his opportunity. Abner and his master soon had a quarrel over Saul's concubine, Rizpah, with whom Abner was intimate. It was certainly an act of treason which Ishbosheth was bound to resent. The disgruntled general made overtures to David; he won over the tribe of Benjamin. With twenty men of them he came to Hebron and arranged with the king of Judah that he would bring over to his side all Israel. He was scarcely gone when Joab learned of the affair; without the knowledge of David he recalled him to Hebron where he slew him, "for the blood of Asahel his brother." David mourned sincerely the death of Abner. "Know ye not," he addressed his servants, "that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?" He followed the bier in person. Of the royal lament over Abner a fragment is quoted: "Should Abner die as a fool dieth? Thy hands were not bound, nor thy feet put into fetters: As a man falleth before the children of iniquity, so didst thou fall." (See 2Sa 3:6-38.) The death of Abner, while it thus cannot in any wise be laid at the door of David, nevertheless served his purposes well. The backbone of the opposition to David was broken, and he was soon proclaimed as king by all Israel. Max L. Margolis 1 Samuel 14:51 Kish was the father of Saul, and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel. Kish: 1Sa 9:1,21 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Kish was the father of Saul, and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel NET NOTE 1 Chr 9:35–36 indicates that Jeiel (= Abiel?) had two sons (among others) named Ner and Kish (see also 1 Sam 9:1 and 1 Chr 8:30, where some Greek manuscripts include the name Ner, though it is absent in the Hebrew text). If this Kish was the father of Saul and Ner was the father of Abner, then Saul and Abner were cousins. However, according to 1 Chr 8:33 and 9:39, Ner, not Abiel, was the father of Kish. In this case, Kish and Abner were brothers and Abner was Saul’s uncle. The simplest solution to the problem is to see two men named Kish in the genealogy: Abiel (Jeiel) was the father of Ner and Kish I. Ner was the father of Abner and Kish II. Kish II was the father of Saul. The Kish mentioned in 1 Sam 9:1 was the father of Saul (v. 2) and must be identified as Kish II. In this case the genealogy is “gapped,” with Ner being omitted. Abiel was the grandfather of Kish II. 1 Samuel 14:52 Now the war against the Philistines was severe all the days of Saul; and when Saul saw any mighty man or any valiant man, he attached him to his staff. BGT 1 Samuel 14:52 καὶ ἦν ὁ πόλεμος κραταιὸς ἐπὶ τοὺς ἀλλοφύλους πάσας τὰς ἡμέρας Σαουλ καὶ ἰδὼν Σαουλ πάντα ἄνδρα δυνατὸν καὶ πάντα ἄνδρα υἱὸν δυνάμεως καὶ συνήγαγεν αὐτοὺς πρὸς αὐτόν LXE 1 Samuel 14:52 And the war was vehement against the Philistines all the days of Saul; and when Saul saw any mighty man, and any valiant man, then he took them to himself. KJV 1 Samuel 14:52 And there was sore war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: and when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him. NET 1 Samuel 14:52 There was fierce war with the Philistines all the days of Saul. So whenever Saul saw anyone who was a warrior or a brave individual, he would conscript him. CSB 1 Samuel 14:52 The conflict with the Philistines was fierce all of Saul's days, so whenever Saul noticed any strong or brave man, he enlisted him. ESV 1 Samuel 14:52 There was hard fighting against the Philistines all the days of Saul. And when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he attached him to himself. NIV 1 Samuel 14:52 All the days of Saul there was bitter war with the Philistines, and whenever Saul saw a mighty or brave man, he took him into his service. NLT 1 Samuel 14:52 The Israelites fought constantly with the Philistines throughout Saul's lifetime. So whenever Saul observed a young man who was brave and strong, he drafted him into his army. NRS 1 Samuel 14:52 There was hard fighting against the Philistines all the days of Saul; and when Saul saw any strong or valiant warrior, he took him into his service. NJB 1 Samuel 14:52 There was fierce warfare with the Philistines throughout Saul's life. Any strong or valiant man who caught Saul's eye, he recruited into his service. NAB 1 Samuel 14:52 An unremitting war was waged against the Philistines during Saul's lifetime. When Saul saw any strong or brave man, he took him into his service. YLT 1 Samuel 14:52 And the war is severe against the Philistines all the days of Saul; when Saul hath seen any mighty man, and any son of valour, then he doth gather him unto himself. when Saul: 1Sa 8:1,11 1 Samuel 14 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Philistia's Location Facilitated Frequent Attacks SAUL'S CONTINUAL WAR WITH THE PHILISTINES Now the war against the Philistines was severe all the days of Saul - NLT - "The Israelites fought constantly with the Philistines throughout Saul's lifetime" One would bring forth a giant Philistine named Goliath who would be slain by David, launching him into the limelight as the future great king of Israel. All the days of Saul included the very last day of Saul's life! (1Sa 31:1-3+). What a dramatic contrast with the summary of the life of Samuel, the man of God "So the Philistines were subdued and they did not come anymore within the border of Israel. And the hand of the LORD was against the Philistines all the days of Samuel." 1Sa 7 and when Saul saw any mighty man or any valiant man, he attached him to his staff - This was just as Samuel had predicted in 1Sa 8:11 "He said, “This will be the procedure of the king who will reign over you: he will take your sons and place them for himself in his chariots and among his horsemen and they will run before his chariots."