1. 1 Samuel 9:1–10:16 (ESV)
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Sermon outline for 1 Samuel 9:1–10:16

1 Samuel 9:1–10:16 (ESV)

1 There was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish, the son of Abiel, son of Zeror, son of Becorath, son of Aphiah, a Benjaminite, a man of wealth.

  • Introduction

    Mention Jesus’ teaching on prayer and what should be done when a child requests something that will hurt them. Explain how the kingship of Saul shows that a good father must give his child what they need rather than what they want.

  • The Lord is merciful

    • Explain: what is the context in which Saul is given to Israel as a king?

    • Explain: how does 1 Samuel 9:1–10:16 testify to the fact that Saul is a decent young man and thus a good candidate for a king?

    • Explain: how does the Lord equip and prepare Saul for his work as king?

    • Explain: how is the kingship of Saul a testimony to God’s mercy?

    • Explain: how is the mercy of God seen in the cross of Jesus Christ?

    • Apply: how should the mercy of God be a comfort to Christian believers who have been united to Christ through faith?

  • The Lord is in complete control of history

    • Explain: how do the events of 1 Samuel 9:1–10:16 confirm that the Lord is in complete control of history?

    • Explain: has the Lord revealed the details of his plan to us? Should we expect revelation from him about the ordinary events of our lives?

    • Explain/Apply: what are some of the challenges, uncertainties, and hardships faced by Christians in the community where you live and work? How can these problems make us think that the Lord is not in control? What should we think instead?

  • Prayer of response

    Heavenly Father, we thank you for your grace and mercy, that you do not treat us as our sins deserve; that you do not give us the things we want but the things we need.

    We know, Lord, that, like Israel, we are foolish children who think that a scorpion or a serpent is what we need to live in this world. We want to walk by sight and not by faith and so we look for security in health, wealth, and possessions. We think that you are in control only when life goes our way.

    On account of Christ we pray that you would forgive us this thinking and help us to trust you in our uncertainty. We do not know what the next day—nevermind the next week—will hold in store for us. May we remember that you remain in control, and that you remain merciful.