1 Saul reigned one year; and when he had reigned two years over Israel,

2 Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

3 And Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Hebrews hear.

4 And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal.

5 And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from Bethaven.

6 When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits.

7 And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.

8 And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.

9 And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering.

10 And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him.

11 And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash;

12 Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the Lord: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

13 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the Lord thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the Lord have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever.

14 But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the Lord hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded thee.

15 And Samuel arose, and gat him up from Gilgal unto Gibeah of Benjamin. And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about six hundred men.

16 And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were present with them, abode in Gibeah of Benjamin: but the Philistines encamped in Michmash.

17 And the spoilers came out of the camp of the Philistines in three companies: one company turned unto the way that leadeth to Ophrah, unto the land of Shual:

18 And another company turned the way to Bethhoron: and another company turned to the way of the border that looketh to the valley of Zeboim toward the wilderness.

19 Now there was no smith found throughout all the land of Israel: for the Philistines said, Lest the Hebrews make them swords or spears:

20 But all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his share, and his coulter, and his axe, and his mattock.

21 Yet they had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads.

22 So it came to pass in the day of battle, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of any of the people that were with Saul and Jonathan: but with Saul and with Jonathan his son was there found.

23 And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
McArther Bible Commentary
one year … two years. The original numbers have not been preserved in this text. It literally reads, "Saul was one year old when he became king and ruled two years over Israel." Act 13:21 states that Saul ruled Israel forty years, but his age at his accession is recorded nowhere in Scripture. Probably the best reconstruction of verses 1 and 2 is, "Saul was one and (perhaps) thirty years old when he began to reign, and when he had reigned two years over Israel, then Saul chose for himself three thousand men of Israel."
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 12:25 1 Samuel 13:2

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
McArther Bible Commentary
Michmash. This area was located about seven miles northeast of Jerusalem. Jonathan. "The Lord has given." Saul's firstborn son and heir apparent to the throne was evidently old enough to serve as a commander in Israel's army at this time, much like David when he killed Goliath (1Sa 17:32-37). Gibeah of Benjamin. This city was located three miles north of Jerusalem. It was called Gibeah of Saul in 1Sa 11:4.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:5 1 Samuel 10:26 1 Samuel 13:1 1 Samuel 13:5 1 Samuel 13:11 1 Samuel 13:15 1 Samuel 13:16 1 Samuel 14:31 1 Samuel 26:2 2 Samuel 20:1 Isaiah 10:28

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Blew - That is, he sent messengers to tell them all what Jonathan had done, and how the Philistines were enraged at it, and therefore what necessity there was of gathering themselves together for their own defence.
McArther Bible Commentary
Geba. This outpost was located about five miles north-northeast of Jerusalem, one and one-half miles southwest of Michmash. blew the trumpet. Saul used the trumpet to summon additional troops for battle.
Bible Cross References
Judges 3:27 Judges 6:34 1 Samuel 10:5 1 Samuel 13:16 1 Samuel 14:5

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Saul - Perhaps contrary to some treaty.
McArther Bible Commentary
an abomination. Israel could expect retaliation from the Philistines for Jonathan's raid. Gilgal. This is the town of Saul's confirmation as king by Samuel and the people (1Sa 11:14-15). Saul chose Gilgal because of Samuel's word in 1Sa 10:8.
Bible Cross References
Genesis 34:30 Exodus 5:21 2 Samuel 10:6

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Thirty thousand chariots, &c. - Most of them, we may suppose, carriages for their baggage, not chariots of war, tho' all their allies were joined with them.
McArther Bible Commentary
thirty thousand chariots. This is probably a scribal error, since the number is too large for the corresponding horsemen. Three thousand is more reasonable and is found in some OT manuscripts. Michmash. See note on 1Sa 13:2. Beth Aven. Lit. "house of nothingness." It was less than one miles southwest of Michmash.
Bible Cross References
Joshua 7:2 Joshua 11:4 Joshua 18:12 1 Samuel 7:13 1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 13:11 1 Samuel 14:23 1 Samuel 17:1 2 Samuel 17:11 1 Kings 20:27 Isaiah 10:28

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Strait - Notwithstanding their former presumption that if they had a king, they should be free from all such straits. And hereby God intended to teach them the vanity of confidence in men; and that they did not one jot less need the help of God now, than they did when they had no king. And probably they were the more discouraged, because they did not find Samuel with Saul. Sooner or later men will be made to see, that God and his prophets are their best friends.
Bible Cross References
Judges 6:2 1 Samuel 7:7 1 Samuel 13:15 1 Samuel 14:11 1 Samuel 14:22 Jeremiah 41:9 Ezekiel 33:27

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The invasion of the Philistines.
Saul reigned one year, and nothing particular happened; but in his second year the events recorded in this chapter took place. For above a year he gave the Philistine time to prepare for war, and to weaken and to disarm the Israelites. When men are lifted up in self-sufficiency, they are often led into folly. The chief advantages of the enemies of the church are derived from the misconduct of its professed friends. When Saul at length sounded an alarm, the people, dissatisfied with his management, or terrified by the power of the enemy, did not come to him, or speedily deserted him.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
All the people - That is, all that were left.
McArther Bible Commentary
Gad and Gilead. Areas east of the Jordan River. all the people followed him trembling. The people were in fear over probable Philistine retaliation.
Bible Cross References
Numbers 32:33 1 Samuel 13:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Was Revealing Saul's True Character
—In detaining Samuel, it was the purpose of God that the heart of Saul should be revealed, that others might know what he would do in an emergency. It was a trying position in which to be placed, but Saul did not obey orders. He felt that it would make no difference who approached God, or in what way; and, full of energy and self-complacency, he put himself forward into the sacred office.The Lord has His appointed agencies; and if these are not discerned and respected by those who are connected with His work, if men feel free to disregard God's requirements, they must not be kept in positions of trust. They would not listen to counsel, nor to the commands of God through His appointed agencies. Like Saul, they would rush into a work that was never appointed them, and the mistakes they would make in following their human judgment would place the Israel of God where their Leader could not reveal Himself to them. Sacred things would become mingled with the common (The Youth's Instructor, November 17, 1898).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Seven days - Not seven compleat days; for the last day was not finished.
McArther Bible Commentary
seven days … the time set by Samuel. This is a direct reference to Samuel's word in 1Sa 10:8. Saul was commanded to wait seven days to meet Samuel in Gilgal. the people were scattered. Saul's men were deserting him because of anxiety and fear over the coming battle.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 10:8 2 Samuel 20:5

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Was Revealing Saul's True Character
—In detaining Samuel, it was the purpose of God that the heart of Saul should be revealed, that others might know what he would do in an emergency. It was a trying position in which to be placed, but Saul did not obey orders. He felt that it would make no difference who approached God, or in what way; and, full of energy and self-complacency, he put himself forward into the sacred office.The Lord has His appointed agencies; and if these are not discerned and respected by those who are connected with His work, if men feel free to disregard God's requirements, they must not be kept in positions of trust. They would not listen to counsel, nor to the commands of God through His appointed agencies. Like Saul, they would rush into a work that was never appointed them, and the mistakes they would make in following their human judgment would place the Israel of God where their Leader could not reveal Himself to them. Sacred things would become mingled with the common (The Youth's Instructor, November 17, 1898).
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Saul Could Have Offered Prayer
—He [Saul] could have offered humble prayer to God without the sacrifice; for the Lord will accept even the silent petition of a burdened heart; but instead of this, he forced himself into the priesthood (The Youth's Instructor, November 17, 1898).
McArther Bible Commentary
he offered the burnt offering. Saul's sin was not specifically that he made a sacrifice (cf. 2Sa 24:25; 1Ki 8:62-64), but that he did not wait for priestly assistance from Samuel. See 1Sa 10:8. He wished to rule as an autocrat who possessed absolute power in civil and sacred matters. Samuel had wanted the seven days as a test of Saul's character and obedience to God, but Saul failed it by invading the priestly office himself.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 12:5 2 Samuel 24:25 1 Kings 3:4

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
God Was Revealing Saul's True Character
—In detaining Samuel, it was the purpose of God that the heart of Saul should be revealed, that others might know what he would do in an emergency. It was a trying position in which to be placed, but Saul did not obey orders. He felt that it would make no difference who approached God, or in what way; and, full of energy and self-complacency, he put himself forward into the sacred office.The Lord has His appointed agencies; and if these are not discerned and respected by those who are connected with His work, if men feel free to disregard God's requirements, they must not be kept in positions of trust. They would not listen to counsel, nor to the commands of God through His appointed agencies. Like Saul, they would rush into a work that was never appointed them, and the mistakes they would make in following their human judgment would place the Israel of God where their Leader could not reveal Himself to them. Sacred things would become mingled with the common (The Youth's Instructor, November 17, 1898).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 15:13 1 Samuel 25:14

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Blaming Samuel Led to Further Sin
—Saul endeavored to vindicate his own course, and blamed the prophet, instead of condemning himself.There are today many who pursue a similar course. Like Saul, they are blinded to their errors. When the Lord seeks to correct them, they receive reproof as insult, and find fault with the one who brings the divine message.Had Saul been willing to see and confess his error, this bitter experience would have proved a safeguard for the future. He would afterward have avoided the mistakes which called forth divine reproof. But feeling that he was unjustly condemned, he would, of course, be likely again to commit the same sin.The Lord would have His people, under all circumstances, manifest implicit trust in Him. Although we cannot always understand the workings of His providence, we should wait with patience and humility until He sees fit to enlighten us. We should beware of taking upon ourselves responsibilities which God has not authorized us to bear. Men frequently have too high an estimate of their own character or abilities. They may feel competent to undertake the most important work, when God sees that they are not prepared to perform aright the smallest and humblest duty (The Signs of the Times, August 10, 1882).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Camest not - That is, when the seventh day was come, and a good part of it past, whence I concluded thou wouldst not come that day.
McArther Bible Commentary
When I saw. Saul reacted disobediently based upon what he saw and not by faith. He feared losing his men and did not properly consider what God would have him do.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 13:5 1 Samuel 13:12

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Supplication - Thence it appears, that sacrifices were accompanied with solemn prayers. Forced myself - I did it against my own mind and inclination.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:11 1 Samuel 13:13 1 Samuel 15:12

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Saul's Folly Leads to Rejection
—Saul's transgression proved him unworthy to be intrusted with sacred responsibilities. One who had himself so little reverence for God's requirements, could not be a wise or safe leader for the nation. Had he patiently endured the divine test, the crown would have been confirmed to him and to his house. In fact, Samuel had come to Gilgal for this very purpose. But Saul had been weighed in the balance, and found wanting. He must be removed to make way for one who would sacredly regard the divine honor and authority (The Signs of the Times, August 3, 1882).After Whose Heart?—Saul had been after the heart of Israel, but David is a man after God's own heart (The Signs of the Times, June 15, 1888).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For ever - The phrase, for ever, in scripture often signifies only a long time. So this had been abundantly verified, if the kingdom had been enjoyed by Saul, and by his son, and by his son's son; after whom the kingdom might have come to Judah.
McArther Bible Commentary
You have not kept the commandment. Saul's disobedience was a direct violation of the command from Samuel in 1Sa 10:8. your kingdom … forever. How could this be in light of God's promise that the king would descend from Judah (Gen 49:10)? This pronouncement would correct the potential contradiction of Saul being from Benjamin, not Judah (cf. 1Sa 13:14).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 1:22 1 Samuel 13:12 1 Samuel 15:11 1 Samuel 15:22 1 Samuel 16:1 2 Samuel 24:10 1 Chronicles 10:13 2 Chronicles 16:9 Isaiah 39:5 Jeremiah 18:10

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
Saul sacrifices, He is reproved by Samuel.
Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see (1 Samuel 10:8), as to what should be done in cases of extremity. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. He would have this act of disobedience pass for an instance of his prudence, and as a proof of his piety. Men destitute of inward piety, often lay great stress on the outward performances of religion. Samuel charges Saul with being an enemy to himself. Those that disobey the commandments of God, do foolishly for themselves. Sin is folly, and the greatest sinners are the greatest fools. Our disposition to obey or disobey God, will often be proved by our behaviour in things which appear small. Men see nothing but Saul's outward act, which seems small; but God saw that he did this with unbelief and distrust of his providence, with contempt of his authority and justice, and with rebellion against the light of his own conscience. Blessed Saviour, may we never, like Saul, bring our poor offerings, or fancied peace-offerings, without looking to thy precious, thy all-sufficient sacrifice! Thou only, O Lord, canst make, or hast made, our peace in the blood of the cross.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
Saul's Folly Leads to Rejection
—Saul's transgression proved him unworthy to be intrusted with sacred responsibilities. One who had himself so little reverence for God's requirements, could not be a wise or safe leader for the nation. Had he patiently endured the divine test, the crown would have been confirmed to him and to his house. In fact, Samuel had come to Gilgal for this very purpose. But Saul had been weighed in the balance, and found wanting. He must be removed to make way for one who would sacredly regard the divine honor and authority (The Signs of the Times, August 3, 1882).After Whose Heart?—Saul had been after the heart of Israel, but David is a man after God's own heart (The Signs of the Times, June 15, 1888).
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
A man - That is, such a man as will fulfil all the desires of his heart, and not oppose them, as thou dost. Commanded - That is, hath appointed, as the word command is sometimes used: but though God threatened but Saul with the loss of his kingdom for his sin; yet it is not improbable, there was a tacit condition implied, to wit, if he did not repent of this; and of all his sins; for the full, and final, and peremptory sentence of Saul's rejection, is plainly ascribed to another cause, (1 Samuel 15:11) , (1 Samuel 15:23) , (1 Samuel 15:26) , (1 Samuel 15:28-29) , and 'till that second offence, neither the spirit of the Lord departed from him, nor was David anointed in his stead. "But was it not hard, to punish so little a sin so severely?" It was not little: disobedience to an express command, tho' in a small matter, is a great provocation. And indeed, there is no little sin, because there is no little god to sin against. In general, what to men seems a small offence, to him who knows the heart may appear a heinous crime. We are taught hereby, how necessary it is, that we wait on our God continually. For Saul is sentenced to lose his kingdom for want of two or three hours patience.
McArther Bible Commentary
a man after His own heart. Instead of Saul, God was going to choose one whose heart was like His own, i.e., one who had a will to obey God. Paul quotes this passage in Act 13:22 of David (cf. 1Sa 16:7). commander. Someone else, namely David, had already been chosen to be God's leader over His people.
Bible Cross References
Acts 7:46 Acts 13:22 1 Samuel 15:23 1 Samuel 15:26 1 Samuel 15:28 1 Samuel 16:1 1 Samuel 24:20 1 Samuel 25:30 2 Samuel 6:21 1 Chronicles 10:13 Psalm 89:20 Isaiah 39:5

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
from Gilgal to Gibeah. This was about a ten-mile trip westward. Samuel left Saul, realizing that Saul's kingship was doomed. six hundred men. This indicates the mass departure of the Israelites (1Sa 13:6) and gives a perspective on what Saul saw (1Sa 13:5).
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 13:6 1 Samuel 14:2 1 Samuel 15:12

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:2 1 Samuel 13:3 1 Samuel 14:2 Isaiah 10:29

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
raiders … in three companies. Lit. these were "destroyers" in the Philistine army, divided into three groups.
Bible Cross References
Joshua 18:23 1 Samuel 14:15

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
Bible Cross References
Joshua 16:3 Joshua 18:13 Joshua 18:14 1 Samuel 14:15 Nehemiah 11:34

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
no blacksmith. The Philistines had superior iron and metal-working craftsmen until David's time (cf. 1Ch 22:3), accounting for their formidable military force.
Bible Cross References
Judges 5:8 1 Samuel 13:20 2 Kings 24:14 Jeremiah 24:1 Jeremiah 29:2

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Philistines - Not to the land of the Philistines, but to the stations and garrisons which the Philistines retained in several parts of Israel's land, though Samuel's authority had so far over - awed them, that they durst not give the Israelites much disturbance. In these, therefore, the Philistines kept all the smiths; and here they allowed them the exercise of their art for the uses following.
McArther Bible Commentary
mattock. A pickax to work the ground by hand.
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 32:41 1 Samuel 13:19 1 Samuel 13:21 2 Chronicles 34:6

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
The Philistines charged a high price to sharpen instruments that potentially could be used against them.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 13:20 1 Samuel 13:22 Zechariah 13:8

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Sword - It seems restrained to the six hundred that were with Saul and Jonathan; for there were no doubt a considerable number of swords and spears among the Israelites, but they generally hid them, as now they did their persons, from the Philistines. And the Philistines had not yet attained to so great a power over them, as wholly to disarm them, but thought it sufficient to prevent the making of new arms; knowing that the old ones would shortly be decayed, and useless. There were likewise other arms more common in those times and places, than swords and spears; to wit, bows and arrows, and slings and stones.
McArther Bible Commentary
neither sword nor spear. The Philistines had a distinct military advantage over Israel since they had a monopoly on iron weapons.
Bible Cross References
Judges 5:8 1 Samuel 13:21

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The policy of the Philistines.
See how politic the Philistines were when they had power; they not only prevented the people of Israel from making weapons of war, but obliged them to depend upon their enemies, even for instruments of husbandry. How impolitic Saul was, who did not, in the beginning of his reign, set himself to redress this. Want of true sense always accompanies want of grace. Sins which appear to us very little, have dangerous consequences. Miserable is a guilty, defenceless nation; much more those who are destitute of the whole armour of God.
McArther Bible Commentary
the pass of Michmash. Some of the Philistines had moved out to a pass leading to Michmash.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 14:1 1 Samuel 14:4 1 Samuel 14:5 2 Samuel 23:14 Isaiah 10:28 Isaiah 10:29