Big Idea: The Lord alone is his people’s Savior and source of security.

Understanding the Text

In chapter 10 we read of how the Lord gave Israel a king yet placed limitations on him (v. 25). However, not everyone was pleased with this arrangement or with the Lord’s choice of a king (v. 27). Indeed, hesitant Saul appeared to be an unlikely candidate for the job; his apparent qualifications were only superficial. The chapter ends in tension. Would Saul be an effective leader and deliver Israel from their enemies? Would Israel support Saul, or would troublemakers create problems within the nation? Chapter 11 appears to resolve the tension positively: the Lord energizes Saul and enables him to lead Israel to victory. The people wholeheartedly support their new king and renew their allegiance…