1 Samuel 28:21 – “When the woman came to Saul and saw that he was greatly shaken, she said, ‘Look, your servant has obeyed you. I took my life in my hands and did what you told me to do.'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the medium from Endor addresses Saul after witnessing his emotional and physical collapse. Saul, having heard the dire prophecy from Samuel, is visibly shaken and overcome by fear. The woman, who had risked her life to perform this forbidden act of summoning a spirit, reminds Saul that she has obeyed his request, even though it was dangerous for her. Her statement, “I took my life in my hands,” emphasizes the risk she took, as consulting the dead was punishable by death under Saul’s own laws. The medium is now concerned for Saul, seeing his fragile state, but also seeking recognition for her dangerous obedience.
Historical Context
At this point in the story, Saul has been rejected by God as king because of his persistent disobedience. In his desperation for guidance, Saul turns to a medium, despite having outlawed such practices in Israel (1 Samuel 28:3). The medium’s fear of being punished reflects the seriousness of Saul’s ban on consulting the dead. Despite the risk, she obeyed Saul’s command to summon Samuel’s spirit. Saul, already spiritually and morally broken, has now heard from Samuel that his fate is sealed: he and his sons will die in battle the next day, and Israel will fall to the Philistines (1 Samuel 28:19). This verse captures the moment when the medium addresses Saul, acknowledging both her obedience and the risk she took.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights the consequences of disobedience and the danger of seeking guidance outside of God’s will. Saul, in his desperation, resorted to violating God’s commands by consulting a medium, and the consequences are tragic. The medium’s willingness to obey Saul despite the risk shows how far Saul had fallen, as he relied on someone to help him engage in a practice forbidden by God. This passage reminds us that seeking answers through disobedient or ungodly means leads to further spiritual decline. Saul’s decision to disobey God’s law not only affected him but also put others, like the medium, in morally compromising situations.
Literary Analysis
This verse adds tension to the narrative by emphasizing the fear and desperation present in both Saul and the medium. Saul’s collapse is described earlier, and here the medium’s words highlight the seriousness of what has just taken place. Her reminder that she “took her life in her hands” underscores the danger and illegality of the act she performed. The phrase “your servant has obeyed you” contrasts with Saul’s ongoing disobedience to God, adding a layer of irony to the situation. While the medium obeyed Saul, Saul himself had failed to obey God, leading to his tragic downfall.
Biblical Cross-References
- Leviticus 19:31: A command from God to avoid mediums and spiritists, reflecting the danger of Saul’s actions in consulting the medium.
- 1 Samuel 15:22-23: Samuel’s earlier rebuke of Saul, emphasizing that obedience to God is more important than sacrifice or ritual, foreshadowing Saul’s continued disobedience.
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12: God’s prohibition against engaging in practices like consulting the dead, which Saul violated by turning to the medium.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning about the dangers of seeking answers outside of God’s will. Saul’s decision to consult a medium, despite knowing it was wrong, shows how far he had strayed from God. The medium’s statement about risking her life also reminds us that our actions often impact others, especially when we make choices that go against God’s commands. This verse encourages believers to trust God’s guidance and timing, even in times of uncertainty, rather than turning to forbidden or ungodly means for answers. It reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s will through prayer, Scripture, and faith.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident even in this moment of judgment. Although Saul has rejected God’s guidance and chosen to go his own way, God’s love remains constant. God had given Saul many opportunities to repent and obey, but Saul’s repeated disobedience led to his downfall. This passage shows that God’s love is patient, but His justice is also real. God’s commands are given out of love to protect His people from spiritual harm. When Saul ignored those commands, the consequences were severe, but God’s love never wavered in desiring what was best for His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse contrasts Saul’s disobedience and reliance on forbidden practices with the perfect obedience of Jesus Christ. Where Saul failed to seek God and turned to ungodly means for answers, Jesus always did the will of the Father. Jesus’ obedience, even unto death on the cross, is the ultimate example of submission to God’s will (Philippians 2:8). Through His sacrifice, Jesus provides the way for believers to come to God directly, without needing intermediaries like mediums or spiritists. Jesus is our mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), and through Him, we have access to God’s wisdom, guidance, and love.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there times when you have been tempted to seek answers or solutions outside of God’s will? How can Saul’s story serve as a reminder to trust God’s guidance?
- How do the consequences of Saul’s actions reflect the importance of obedience to God’s commands? What steps can you take to remain faithful in difficult situations?
- How does Jesus’ perfect obedience encourage you to follow God’s will, even when the path seems unclear or challenging? How can His role as our mediator give you confidence in seeking God’s guidance?