1 Samuel 28:7 – “Saul then said to his attendants, ‘Find me a woman who is a medium, so I may go and inquire of her.’ ‘There is one in Endor,’ they said.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, King Saul, desperate and fearful due to the silence of God, decides to seek guidance from a medium, someone who claims to communicate with the dead. This is a significant turning point in Saul’s story, as it shows how far he has fallen from his previous commitment to God. Earlier in his reign, Saul had expelled mediums and spiritists from Israel, in obedience to God’s law (1 Samuel 28:3). Now, however, he is so consumed by fear and desperation that he is willing to violate the very laws he once upheld. His attendants, who should have discouraged him, instead guide him to a medium in Endor, thus aiding in his disobedience.
Historical Context
Saul’s actions here reflect the dire situation he was in. Israel was on the brink of war with the Philistines, and Saul was filled with fear. After years of disobeying God, Saul had distanced himself from divine guidance. In ancient Israel, consulting mediums and spiritists was strictly forbidden (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). These practices were common among the pagan nations surrounding Israel, but God had called His people to avoid such practices and trust in Him alone. The fact that Saul turns to a medium, after God has refused to answer him, highlights the spiritual crisis he faces.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse emphasizes the dangers of turning away from God in times of crisis. Saul’s decision to consult a medium shows the spiritual consequences of rejecting God’s guidance. Instead of repenting and seeking God’s mercy, Saul resorts to forbidden practices. This teaches us that when we move away from God, we can easily fall into deeper rebellion and sin. It also highlights the importance of trusting God even when He seems silent, rather than seeking answers in places that contradict His will.
Literary Analysis
This verse serves as a turning point in Saul’s downward spiral. The tension in the narrative builds as Saul makes the decision to seek out a medium, showing how fear and desperation can lead to poor choices. The phrase “Find me a woman who is a medium” is blunt and direct, indicating Saul’s resolve to disobey God’s commands. The quick response from his attendants—“There is one in Endor”—shows how easily those around him were willing to lead him into further disobedience. The story moves from Saul’s fear to action, propelling the narrative toward the tragic consequences of his choices.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12: God’s command prohibiting mediums and spiritists, which Saul disobeys in this passage.
- 1 Chronicles 10:13-14: A reflection on Saul’s death, which attributes his downfall to his unfaithfulness and seeking guidance from a medium.
- Leviticus 19:31: Another clear prohibition against consulting mediums, reminding the people to be holy as God is holy.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a warning about the dangers of turning to the wrong sources for guidance, especially in moments of fear or desperation. When life feels uncertain, it can be tempting to seek answers in ways that go against God’s Word—whether through superstitions, secular advice, or even practices that God has clearly forbidden. Saul’s story shows us that when we feel distant from God, the solution is to draw closer to Him in repentance and faith, not to seek answers in places that lead us away from Him.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Even in Saul’s rebellion, God’s love and standards remain constant. While Saul chooses to disobey God, we are reminded that God’s commands are meant for our protection and well-being. God’s prohibition against consulting mediums was given out of love, to keep His people from falling into spiritual darkness and deception. Though Saul chose the path of disobedience, God’s love calls us to trust in Him, even when we don’t understand or feel His presence immediately.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the one who fulfills the role of perfect mediator between God and humanity. Where Saul sought out a medium to communicate with the spiritual realm, Jesus provides direct access to God. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus tore down the barriers that separated us from God, allowing us to come directly to the Father through Him (Hebrews 4:14-16). In contrast to Saul’s decision to consult the dead, Jesus gives us life and a relationship with the living God (John 14:6).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve been tempted to seek guidance outside of God’s will? How can you refocus on trusting Him?
- How do you handle moments when it feels like God is silent? What can you do to draw closer to Him during those times?
- How does knowing that Jesus is our direct access to God encourage you when you feel uncertain or afraid?