13: Samuel’s Farewell Message ( 1 Samuel 12:1 – 25)

Samuel was not happy with the situation that a monarchy had started. He warned them that their security and well-being depended on their faithfulness to the Lord, regardless of whether they had a king.

πŸ‘‰ Read 1Samuel 12:1 - 25


Q1. Samuel narrates how he faithfully served as a leader of Israel (1-5). Why do you think Samuel is saying this at this moment? (hint: verses 12 and 19. Also, consider what triggered their request for dynasty in 1 Sam 8:1 – 5.) 

His sons' failure prompted the Israelites to request a king. Samuel saw this request as a rejection not only of his leadership but ultimately of the Lord Himself (1 Sam 8:7). Therefore, he sought to make it clear that he was not responsible for initiating the monarchy. Instead, he wanted them to understand that their demand for a king was a rejection of the Lord’s kingship and, therefore, a sinful act.



Q2. (6 – 11) Samuel said the Lord had provided security in their history. When they were in trouble, even because of their sins, God sent a deliverer to save them. Find related verses.

verse 6, 8, 11. 

Also, the Lord brought trouble for them because of their sins (9). When they confessed their sins and cried for help, the Lord sent a deliverer and saved them. Samuel wants to clarify that their secure living is up to the Lord’s hand, not the king's.

This was the Lord’s way. Though they didn't have a standing and trained army, the Lord raised leaders and soldiers and delivered Israel in times of need. The Lord was their army. But, if you don't believe the Lord, His protection seems to be the 'daily' security that doesn't guarantee tomorrow. 

Thus, they wanted to guarantee their security regardless of their sins. This was against God’s will and not possible.



Q3. According to verses 8–11, what should their prayer have been instead of asking for a king?

They would be better off focusing on repentance, seeking ways to avoid sin, and asking for God's help in doing so.

They thought their king would keep them safe. But it was the opposite. Later, sinful kings expedited the nation's fall.



Q4. In v14 – 15 and v24 – 25, Samuel repeatedly warned them that salvation doesn't come from (              ) but from (            ). They will live securely only when they (               ) the Lord, regardless they have (             ) or not.

King, the Lord, Obey, King


"If you continue to do evil, both you and your king will be swept away." (25)


Q5. What was the purpose of thunder? (v17, 19)

To let them know asking for a king was a sin.

Deuteronomy 17:14-20 even anticipates a monarchy after they enter Canaan. Then, why is it a sin? If it was a sin, why did the Lord grant their request? 

Having a king is not a sin, but their inner motive is sinful. Weary of God's way for security, they sought a human solution instead of repentance. They didn't realize that their reliance on a king stemmed from deep-rooted sin: to guarantee security even in the state of sins. 

The Lord wanted them to understand His displeasure but allowed them a king because banning kingship wouldn’t remove their sinful motive. Instead, He reminded them that trust and obedience—not a king—are the true foundation of security.

God put the spiritual security first, but they sought the material security first. 



Q6. (18 – 25) When the Lord reveals our sins, we would fear the punishment (19). However, we should not turn aside from the Lord because of fear or guilt but serve the Lord faithfully and wholeheartedly. What are the three reasons found in Samuel’s exhortation? (21, 22, 25)

Seeking other sorts of comfort is no use. They were empty.

The Lord will not reject you because you have sinned.

If we keep refusing the Lord, we will be destroyed no matter what.





While they were so excited to enter the era of the kingdom, Samuel's message chilled them down. 'Don't think you would be safer because you have a king. Security is in the Lord's hand. Trust and obey Him, you and your king! Nothing has changed.' 

Our life and security don’t rely on what we possess but on the Lord. If you know this, you will seek the Lord as your highest priority, not empty resorts of this world, nor run away to hide from the Lord.


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