1 Samuel 28:8 – “So Saul disguised himself, putting on other clothes, and at night he and two men went to the woman. ‘Consult a spirit for me,’ he said, ‘and bring up for me the one I name.’”
Extended Explanation
This verse describes Saul, the king of Israel, in a moment of profound spiritual crisis. Disguised and operating under the cover of darkness, Saul seeks out a medium to summon the spirit of someone who has died. Despite having banned such practices earlier in his reign, Saul is now willing to break his own law in a desperate attempt to receive guidance. The use of a disguise and the act of consulting a medium highlight Saul’s internal struggle and the depth of his spiritual and moral decline. He is so desperate for answers, especially after God’s silence, that he is willing to turn to forbidden practices, further distancing himself from God.
Historical Context
In ancient Israel, consulting mediums and spiritists was strictly prohibited by God (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). These practices were common among pagan nations, but God had set His people apart, commanding them not to engage in such activities. Earlier in Saul’s reign, he had followed this command, driving out mediums from the land (1 Samuel 28:3). However, by this point in his life, Saul was spiritually disconnected. God had rejected him as king due to his disobedience (1 Samuel 15:23), and with the Philistines threatening Israel, Saul found himself in desperate need of guidance. But rather than repenting and seeking God’s mercy, Saul turns to forbidden means, further revealing his spiritual downfall.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse demonstrates the dangers of turning away from God in moments of crisis. Saul’s decision to consult a medium reflects a lack of faith and an unwillingness to trust God, even when God seems silent. This disobedience shows that when we reject God’s guidance, we open ourselves up to destructive and sinful paths. Saul’s desperation reveals how far he has drifted from God, choosing darkness and secrecy over repentance and faith. The verse also underscores the seriousness of engaging in occult practices, which God strictly forbids because they lead us away from Him.
Literary Analysis
Literarily, this verse heightens the tension in Saul’s narrative. The imagery of Saul disguising himself and traveling at night reflects his moral and spiritual darkness. He is not only hiding from people but also attempting to hide from God. The darkness of night and the secrecy of his actions symbolize Saul’s alienation from God’s light. His request to “bring up for me the one I name” demonstrates his desperation for control and answers, even if they come from an illicit source. The verse is a turning point in the story, showing Saul’s final descent into disobedience.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 18:10-12: God’s command against consulting mediums and engaging in occult practices, which Saul violates in this passage.
- Isaiah 8:19: A warning against seeking guidance from mediums and spiritists, urging people to seek God instead.
- 1 Samuel 15:23: Saul’s rebellion and disobedience led to God rejecting him as king, setting the stage for his continued downfall in this chapter.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a powerful warning about where desperation and fear can lead when we turn away from God. Saul’s actions remind us that seeking answers in forbidden places, whether through occult practices or other forms of disobedience, only leads to deeper spiritual destruction. In times of uncertainty, rather than turning to sources outside of God’s will, we are called to trust Him, even when it seems like He is silent. This verse encourages us to remain faithful, seeking God’s guidance through prayer, Scripture, and obedience rather than resorting to worldly or sinful means.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love remains constant, even in Saul’s rebellion. Although Saul turns to forbidden practices, this verse highlights the contrast between human disobedience and God’s unwavering standards. God’s love is reflected in His desire to protect His people from the dangers of spiritual deception. His commandments, including the prohibition against consulting mediums, are given out of love to guide us toward life and truth. Even when Saul chose the wrong path, God’s love was still available to those who sought Him with humble hearts.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the true and final mediator between humanity and God. Where Saul sought out a medium to contact the dead, Jesus offers us direct access to God through His life, death, and resurrection. In Hebrews 4:16, we are invited to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence because of what Jesus has done for us. Unlike Saul, who sought answers in a place of darkness, Christians are called to find truth and guidance in Jesus, the Light of the World (John 8:12). Jesus fulfills the role of mediator that Saul misguidedly sought through forbidden means.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve been tempted to seek guidance or answers outside of God’s will? How can you refocus on trusting Him?
- How do you respond when God seems silent in your life? What can you do to remain faithful and seek His guidance in those moments?
- How does knowing that Jesus is our direct access to God give you confidence when you face difficult or uncertain times?