1 Samuel 10:12 – “A man who lived there answered, ‘And who is their father?’ So it became a saying: ‘Is Saul also among the prophets?’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the people who witness Saul prophesying are confused and amazed. One man questions, “And who is their father?” suggesting that the sudden prophetic activity seen in Saul and the other prophets isn’t dependent on family lineage or background. This question implies that the Spirit’s work is independent of human qualifications. The phrase “Is Saul also among the prophets?” becomes a well-known saying, expressing the surprise that someone as unexpected as Saul could be used in this way. This verse captures the public’s astonishment and serves as a reminder that God’s Spirit can move in ways that challenge human expectations.
Historical Context
During this time, prophets held a unique and respected position in Israel. They were often seen as direct messengers of God, and their activities, like prophesying, were viewed as special and set apart. Saul, coming from a wealthy family but not a prophetic lineage, was an unexpected figure to be seen among prophets. This unexpected transformation would have been a shock to those who knew Saul’s past, further illustrating how God’s calling doesn’t conform to societal norms. The phrase that emerged from this event, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” became a saying that reflected the remarkable and surprising nature of God’s work in Saul’s life.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse teaches that God’s work is not limited by human expectations or qualifications. The question “And who is their father?” emphasizes that God’s Spirit operates independently of human factors like family background, education, or social status. It highlights the sovereign choice of God to empower and use anyone He chooses, regardless of what others might think. This verse serves as a reminder that God’s calling and empowerment are based solely on His will, not on human tradition or merit.
Literary Analysis
The literary style of this verse uses a rhetorical question and a popular saying to capture the community’s reaction to Saul’s unexpected transformation. The rhetorical question, “And who is their father?” challenges the assumptions of the time, questioning the traditional criteria for spiritual authority. The phrase that became a saying—“Is Saul also among the prophets?”—serves as a literary device to emphasize the surprising nature of Saul’s new role. It captures a moment of social commentary, where a common expression reveals deeper truths about God’s unpredictable ways.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- John 3:8: “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit,” highlighting the unpredictable nature of God’s work through His Spirit.
- 1 Corinthians 1:26-29: Paul writes about how God chooses the foolish and the weak to shame the wise, showing that God’s calling often defies human expectations.
- Acts 2:7: The crowd is amazed when they hear the disciples speaking in different languages, questioning how ordinary men could be filled with the Spirit, similar to the reaction to Saul.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, this verse is a powerful reminder that God’s Spirit works beyond human boundaries. It encourages believers to stay open to the surprising ways God may move in their lives and the lives of others. This verse challenges us not to box God in with our expectations of who He can use and how He can work. It’s a call to recognize that God’s Spirit can equip and transform anyone, regardless of their background or past. This verse also encourages humility, reminding us that God’s work is not dependent on our human qualifications but on His choice.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in that He doesn’t limit His work to the expected or the qualified. God’s Spirit moves in ways that reveal His inclusive love, reaching people from all walks of life. By empowering Saul, an unlikely candidate, God shows that His love and calling are available to anyone, not just those who seem “spiritually elite.” This demonstrates God’s willingness to use imperfect and unexpected people to accomplish His purposes, showing that His love extends to all.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Saul’s unexpected inclusion among the prophets points to the inclusive nature of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus consistently broke societal norms by reaching out to those whom others overlooked—fishermen, tax collectors, and sinners (Mark 2:15-17). Just as Saul’s presence among the prophets defied expectations, Jesus’ calling of ordinary and flawed individuals to follow Him showed that God’s kingdom is open to all. Through Christ, the Holy Spirit is made available to every believer, continuing the theme that God’s work transcends human expectations and barriers.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever seen God work through someone in an unexpected way? How did that impact your understanding of God’s power?
- How does this verse challenge your assumptions about who God can use?
- In what areas of your life do you need to be more open to God’s surprising work?
- How does the idea that God’s Spirit can move in anyone encourage you in your own walk with God?