With what ceremonies did Samuel proceed to confer the royal office upon Saul?
What was the vessel from which Samuel afterwards anointed David? ch. 16. 13. N. B. This may emblematically represent the more firm and lasting character of David's kingdom, while that of Saul was brittle and soon broken.
What, beside affectionate good wishes, was intimated by the kiss? Ps. 2. 10—12. J Kings, 19. 18.
On what occasion was the ceremony of anointing made use of, and what was typically signified by it? Ex. 28. 41. 2. 2' Kings 9. 6. N. B. The rite pointed to the great Messiah, the Anointed One, especially to his being anointed with kingly rule over his church, and to the plenary effusion of the Holy Spirit upon them according to John 3.34.
What signs does the prophet give Saul for his further satisfaction? v. 2—6.
With what directions did he accompany them?
What happened as he turned away from Samuel to pursue his journey?
Is it to be understood by this that Saul now experienced a real work of regeneration ? N.B. Saul henceforth no doubt became the subject of frequent serious impressions, but his life gives us no good reason to believe him to have been a pious man. When it is said therefore, that " God gave him another heart"—it is merely meant that he conferred upon him those special endowments or gifts of government which would qualify him for the able discharge of the duties of his new office.
What happened to him according to the word of Samuel as he passed on his way, and what enquiries did it give rise to?
What answer was returned ? N. B. The expression—"But who is their father"—is generally understood as being equivalent to—" Who but God is the father of prophets— and as he puts the spirit of prophecy upon whom he pleases, is it any wonder to find even Saul among them." It is possible however that it may be intended to insinuate a doubt of the source of the inspiration in his and similar cases, and that they could not judge whether it was genuine till time and other circumstances should disclose the author and father of it. Viewed in this light it suggests a proper enquiry to be made in all ages concerning such as we often see brought under sudden and powerful religious excitement :—" But who is their father?"—Where do their raptures come from?
What proverb originated from this circumstance?
What questions were asked Saul when he returned home, and how did he answer them?
Where did Samuel after this convoke a general assembly of the people and for what purpose? Ans. To confirm and ratify in a formal manner the election of a king which God had previously made.
How did he address the people and what order did he give them?
What was the issue of the lot?
Where did Saul conceal himself and what may we suppose to have been his motive?
What was his personal appearance when produced and presented to the people?
Was this any commendation to him in the eyes of the Lord? Ps. 147.10.
How was he received by the people?
Does this circumstance throw light upon an expression in the prophecy of Balaam? Num. 23. 21.
What did Samuel leave on record before dismissing the assembly ? N. B. This means that he clearly pointed out the terms of the compact between the prince and the people—-defining the rights, prerogatives,and rules of government of the one, together with the duties and privileges of the other.
Whither did Saul return, and how attended?
How was he regarded by the men of Belial, or the baser class?
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