I Introduction
Introduce the passage, emphasising its tragic and mysterious nature. Briefly mention some of the questions that have been raised regarding the actions of the medium and the appearance of Samuel.
II A king who refuses to listen
A Explain: What is the focus of 1 Samuel 28? What were the privileges that Saul enjoyed? What did he refuse to do?
B Explain: How is the presence of the Philistine army an indictment against Saul?
C Explain: Why was the LORD silent? Consider the practical and the theological reasons.
D Explain: Why does Saul go to the medium? What does he hope to achieve? What does he hear from Samuel?
E Explain: Is the news about his coming death a mercy?
III A king who listened in all things
A Explain: How do the actions of Saul contrast with those of David? Where is the narrative of 1 Samuel 28 leading us?
B Explain: How is Jesus superior to both David and Saul? What did he do for God’s people?
C Apply: What will listening to God mean for our engagement with the spiritual world/those who have died? What are some of the creative ways that we try to close our ears to what God has said?
IV Prayer of response
Heavenly Father,
Thank you that Jesus is the King who always listened and obeyed. Thank you that he was content with what you revealed, content with your provision, content to do your will. Thank you that he lived the perfect life of obedience in our place, and that he died the death we deserve because of our failure to listen and our discontentment with what you have provided and revealed.
Please change us by your Spirit and conform us more and more into the image of your Son. We recognise that it is a wonderful mercy and privilege to hear your Gospel proclaimed to us—help us to listen to and do all that you command. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
1 In those days the Philistines gathered their forces for war, to fight against Israel. And Achish said to David, “Understand that you and your men are to go out with me in the army.”