The King Beneath the Tangled Crown (Part 1)
Shepherd. Outcast. Giant-killer. Warrior. Poet. Fugitive. King. Sinner. Man after God’s own heart. Welcome to our new series, an in-depth exploration of the life—and many hats—of David.
Ice Breaker: At the beginning of this week’s sermon and podcast, Pete talks about our tendency towards “black and white” thinking, dividing the world into “good guys and bad guys”. In what areas are you most tempted towards this way of thinking?
Read 1 Samuel 8:4-22 to set up today’s discussion.
1.Why do you think the Israelite people were so insistent on having a king? Why did they want to be like the other nations, despite being set apart by God and having Him fight their previous battles?
2. Why do you think God allowed the people to have a king?
Read 1 Samuel 9:1-2.
3. What features of Saul give him the appearance of a leader? Discuss how appearance often differs from reality with leadership is involved.
4. Why do we often value appearance over substance?
Read 1 Samuel 15:1-3.
5. How do you read this passage in the light of a loving God?
6. Pete told us that the Hebrew word translated here as “totally destroy” is herem, which means to eradicate a way of life and dedicating it to God. How does this give a different context to the passage?
Read 1 Samuel 15:7-9.
7. How is Saul’s lack of obedience to God’s instructions is similar to Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden?
Close by reading 1 Samuel 16:10-12.
8. What is the significance of God choosing David, the shepherd and youngest son of Jesse?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
