Sermon: The Demand for a King

Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 8

Quotes for Reflection

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Ethics
Do and dare what is right, not swayed by the whim of the moment. Bravely take hold of the real, not dallying now with what might be. Not in the flight of ideas but only in action is freedom. Make up your mind and come out into the tempest of living. God’s command is enough and your faith in him to sustain you. Then at last freedom will welcome your spirit amid great rejoicing.

Tim Keller, Reason for God
Jesus is the only Lord who, if you receive him, will fulfill you completely, and, if you fail him, will forgive you eternally.

J.D. Greear, Exalting Jesus in 1 & 2 Samuel
All earthly kings disappoint. But God is an altogether different King. He showed Israel time and time again that He had been faithful to them, even when they were not. They were unbelieving in the wilderness, but God gave them manna. They served idols, which led to other nations afflicting them; but when they called out to God in repentance, He immediately came to their aid and delivered them. Here is a King who not only supplies the needs of His own but also forgives and has mercy on those who fail Him. Why would anyone desire another king than Him?

Application Questions

1. What is your typical response to seasons of confusion? How might that be happening right now?

2. Israel wanted a king. What was the difference between how they imagined kingship and the reality of it?

3. Why does God tell Samuel, “listen to their voice”? How have you seen God work in this way in your own life?