1 Samuel 12 Commentary.
God has been Israel’s king all this time. He has been a very good king. He has rescued the nation from many troubles.
But why has Israel asked for a king? The great prophet cannot understand.
He looks into the history books. He finds nothing but generosity and care. Yes, deliverances for Israel even when Israel didn’t deserve them!
Indeed, nothing faulty with God’s leadership! Flawless!
He then turns his attention to his own leadership. He hasn’t misrepresented the LORD’s righteous rule by either cheating, corruption, or oppression. So, this vote of no confidence in God’s leadership, where is it coming from? What is the basis?
Of course, the prophet knows why the people have asked for a king. It is because of Nahash, the Ammonite king. He is mercilessly brutal against Israel.
We can fill the blank spaces. Samuel’s sons don’t measure up. But who says Samuel’s children, or indeed Samuel himself is Israel’s deliverer?
Samuel points to the many human tools that God has used, including himself. They are simply tools. God is behind it all. But can Israel see this point?
The summary of Israel’s reaction is that of dethroning God. They want their own king – a human king. Israel has forgotten the King of kings!
Then Samuel calls upon the name of the LORD for a heavy downpour in midst of the dry season. The miracle is cementing the point that the LORD can do things that appear impossible. The king that the nation no longer cares about is well able.
The chapter closes with the following statement: “But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.”
It’s all about the presence of wickedness, not the absence of the King of kings! Disobedience is the factor!
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