1 Samuel 9-15 – The Rise and Fall of Saul

Introduction

Discuss what characteristics you think make a good leader. Which characteristic is the most important?

Read 1 Samuel 9:1-21.

1. Now read verse 16 again. How did God send Saul to Samuel? What does this teach us about God?

2. What first impression does the passage give us about Saul? Does he seem like a good leader? Explain your answer.

Read Samuel 10:9-12 and 10:27 – 11:15

3. How would you answer the troublemakers’ question in 10:27?

4. Has your impression of Saul changed since chapter 9? Does Saul seem more suitable or less suitable to lead now? What brought about the change?

Read 1 Samuel 13:1-14 and 15:1-24

5. What was Saul’s rationale for offering a sacrifice instead of waiting for Samuel in chapter 13? Is this understandable? Excusable? Why?

6. What was Saul’s rationale for not destroying all the livestock in chapter 15? Is this understandable? Excusable? Why?

7. Do you ever find yourself making excuses that are similar to Saul’s? Share with the group.

8. From your studies in 1 Samuel, explain what characteristics God wants in a leader. Which characteristic is stressed the most? Since we know that Jesus is the ultimate king, why was this characteristic so important?

Spend some time praying for one another and praising God for the only truly obedient leader, Jesus Christ our Lord.