Sermon Questions - May 8, 2016

The Death of Saul

1 Samuel 31:1-13

May 8, 2016

Study Questions

1. Read 1 Samuel 31:1-7 and then skim read 28:3-25. How do these two chapters connect? How do they relate to chapters 26-27 and 29-30? What is the Lord trying to show us in the layout of these chapters?

2. Google “Mount Gilboa” to find where it was and to see actual pictures of it. Stare at the pictures and take in the geographical context.

3. Ultimately, why was Israel so badly defeated in this battle? How exactly did Saul, his sons, and his armor-bearer die? How does this connect to previous chapters? Why did Jonathan, who was faithful to the Lord, have to die along with them?

4. How did the rest of Israel respond to this tragic battle? What was the ultimate outcome?

5. Read 1 Samuel 31:8-13. Why did the Lord allow Saul’s body to be treated in this way? To whom did the Philistines send the news of his death?

6. Who were the people of Jabesh-Gilead? What relationship did they have to Saul and his tribe, Benjamin? What exactly did they do?

7. What’s the most important thing you learned from the sermon and your personal study?

8. How has today’s message helped you to grow in love for God and others?

9. What is the most important thing Jesus would have you do in light of 1 Samuel 29?

10. Take some time to worship Jesus. Thank him, praise him, and ask for his help as you seek to strive with other believers for the faith of the gospel.

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