Wednesday 4 December 2024
“Give us a king to govern us.” (v. 6)
Background
History repeats itself. We have learned from earlier chapters of 1 Samuel how the wickedness of Eli’s sons and the failure of their father to restrain them formed the background for Samuel’s assumption of authority as prophet, priest and judge. Now Samuel himself has grown old, and his sons, to whom he has delegated some of the administration of justice, are abusing their positions (see 8:3). Samuel, it seems, still commands the respect of the people (this is later made clear in 12:3-5 when the people agree that Samuel has maintained his integrity), but his designated successors have already proved themselves unworthy of their office.
Samuel receives a delegation of ‘the elders of Israel’. (v. 4) It is unclear whether this is a particular party or a body that is representative of the whole people, but either way they have a plan. Since the time of Joshua, God has raised up for the people Judges who have held them to the Law and led them in times of conflict. The system, however, seems peculiarly prone to succession crises and the elders want a more stable and predictable approach to government. Other nations have kings. Why should Israel not be like other nations?
Samuel does not react well to this but his response is not immediately to argue back. He prays and the answer to his prayer is surprising. God tells Samuel not to take the elders’ approach personally. It is the Lord whom the people have rejected. The rule of the Judges was a way in which Israel lived under the government of God. Nevertheless, God instructs Samuel to grant the people’s request to have a king. The only condition is that if Israel is to become a monarchy, the people must go into the transition with their eyes open.
To Ponder:
- Throughout human history, societies have experimented with different forms of government including theocracy (where ministers of religion have a dominating voice). What form or forms (if any) do you think best reflect God’s will for God’s people?
- Central to this story is the question of the administration of justice. The Methodist Church claims to be a ‘justice-seeking Church’. What does that mean for our approach to different forms of government?
- The writer of today's text sees the demand for a king as a rejection of the monarchy of God. What does it mean to call God ‘King’? Is it language that you find helpful or not? Why?
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Jonathan Hustler
Jonathan Hustler is a presbyter who currently serves as the Secretary of the Conference.