1 Samuel 15

Theme of chapter: Through Samuel God commands Saul to utterly destroy the Amalekites, not leaving anything or anyone alive. Saul disobeys and leaves the king alive and the best animals. Samuel rebukes him and tells him that because of his disobedience he is finished as king.

Most important verse: 1 Samuel 15:28 And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou.

Most prominent word: Amalekites (a nation of idolators who were bitter foes of Israel)

Teaching about Christ: The Lord is holy. He can love you and still discipline you.

Command to obey: Do not rebel against the Lord or be stubborn in your ways.

Promise to claim: Judgement always comes to unrepentant sin.

New truth learned: Saul just can't help himself. He just keeps on and on disobeying God and making up all kinds of excuses and pious reasoning to try to cover his tracks. Unfortunately for him, Samuel is in direct communication with God and sees through all these politician-like maneuvers. Saul is finally given the boot.