As Saul's reign as king is formally introduced, his weaknesses begin to show more clearly. Even as he takes credit for the victory won by his son Jonathan, the Philistines remain a formidable enemy who bring fear to Israel. Initially, Saul waits for Samuel as the prophet had instructed. However, as Saul's army dwindles, he takes matters into his own hands and usurps the priestly role. When Samuel arrives, he tells Saul that this disobedience will lead to the kingdom being taken from Saul and being given to a man after God's own heart. Saul's disobedience is all the more troublesome because it doesn't actually improve things for Israel.

Rev. Sean Daenzer, director of worship for The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod and chaplain for the International Center in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study 1 Samuel 13:1-23.

"A Kingdom Unlike All the Nations” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through 1-2 Samuel. This time in Israel's history has its highs and lows, but the LORD's faithfulness never wavers. He provides His Word to be proclaimed faithfully through prophets like Samuel and Nathan. Even as princes like Saul and David sit on an earthly throne, the LORD remains King over His people, even as He does now and forever through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected]