Theological Commentary: Click Here
This chapter
is another perspective of humanity. Human
beings really have a propensity for doing what is right when everyone is
looking but then doing what they want when a need arises or when nobody is
looking. For example, take a look at
Saul here in the chapter.
Saul, under
the guidance of Samuel, had all of the mediums thrown out from the midst of God’s
people. God doesn’t want people consorting
with the dead. He doesn’t want them
relying upon wisdom from anyone but Him.
Saul is willing to publicly follow Samuel’s guidance on this matter.
However, at
this point in the story Samuel is dead.
God has quit responding to Saul and providing guidance to him. There is a large army of Philistines who are
seeking to conquer him and his lands.
Saul is looking for any kind of guidance, and everyone that can produce
true wisdom is gone.
At this
point, Saul turns to a medium at Endor.
Isn’t it interesting how Saul kicked out the mediums when it was
publicly necessary. But when push comes
to shove, Saul decides to consort a medium.
Nobody is looking; nobody will hold him accountable. Saul feels his back against the wall; Saul’s
true colors rise to the surface.
This is what
I meant at the beginning of this reflection.
Saul is willing to give a public face of righteousness. But when nobody is looking, his darker
character comes out. When he feels
cornered, Saul breaks his own rules.
When we aren’t careful, we often live hypocritically and do as we please
when the mood calls for it.
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