Even though Saul will have the authority of a king, verse 8 is a reminder that he also needs to obey the word of God. At a forthcoming gathering at Gilgal—the sacred town near the Jordan River—Saul is instructed to wait a full week for Samuel to advise him.

The rapid fulfillment of signs leaves little doubt that God has spoken through Samuel (10:9–16). Saul’s participation in prophesying startles his friends, and they ask, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” (10:11). By this time the curiosity of Saul’s uncle has been aroused, but when he questions Saul about his visit with Samuel, Saul says nothing about the anointing. As rumors about Saul begin to multiply, Samuel summons the people to reveal God’s choice of king (10:17–27). Before proceeding with the selection, however, he scol…