Discuss 1 Samuel 15

Futher insights on prayer in regard to spiritual warfare.

INTERCESSORY prayer is something which frankly I haven't really studied in the Old Testament; but is also an important if not necessary act of spiritual warfare as Ephesians 6 in particular emphasizes. Perhaps it could best be compared to the wars of conquest of Israel for several reasons. First of all; it identifies the enemy and in no uncertain terms. The Lord would call for destruction of Israel's neighbors at the time because of their sinful religious practices; which included child sacrifice and in the case of at least one king; killing babies in the womb ( 1 Samuel 15:33 in regard to killing king Agag). The enemy of our souls comes to "steal; kill and destroy". ( John 10:10). We are called to love our enemies in regard to the sinner; but not the sin. Satan and his hordes are unredeemable and constantly coming against God's people and blinding the unregenerate. Just WHY believers seem so tepid in confronting this menacing enemy is a real conundrum in my mind; and sadly I can't help think it is because their walk is so compromised that they dare not face such a foe and find it easier to put it in the back of their minds as a lesser threat for some reason.

Of course there is no reason to hate sin and not the author of confusion; or vice versa. We can't put all the blame on Satan but not using our one offensive weapon the sword of the Spirit is both; well stupid and detrimental to the mutual well being of the saints. This may be the only time I would use such an offensive approach in terms of a general rebuke; and of course I have to face my own myopic prayer life when saying this to others. David had a sling and a stone to use as his armor was untested; a criminal would have only perhaps a file to whittle at his prison cell bars; we have only one offensive weapon in the Ephesians 6 inventory; that of the sword of the Spirit. NEVER go after Satan in your own strength that is also dumb.

Primary understanding of the Bible (part 2)

Section 1: Primary themes of scripture and primary applications

A child could probably read a section of the Bible and learn fairly easily about David and Goliath; Noah's Ark; and major characters in scripture as well as basic scriptures about Christ. We can make two errors related to this topic; the first finding nothing of meaning to us as 21st Century citizens of the USA or other modern civilizations or the opposite-thinking every verse somehow applies to us. Without disputing the 2 Timothy 3:16 concept; we simply cannot find a way to directly relate to David's story fighting a giant or any other incidents involving the genetically mutated offspring of Nephilim; nor can we relate to a command to destroy all men; women; children and cattle in a wartime situation today. In these cases; of course we can apply principles such as obedience being better than sacrifice ( 1 Samuel 15:22) as well as understanding the spiritual dimension which still exists today; even with certain entities already chained in the abyss ( 2 Peter 2:4) being a past event. Still other passages may discuss ceremonial laws which have no practical moral application but would keep an individual out of being part of Israel in the Old Testament times; when certain other Sabbath rules were strictly enforced to the point of death ( Numbers 15:32-36). We also are forced to deal with certain passages such as Deuteronomy 24 and later commentary by Christ in Matthew 5 and 19 which trumpet what Moses permitted due to hardness of hearts but apparently wasn't God's will in the beginning and therefore not "commanded" as the Pharisees presented their arguments in these passages to permit divorce.

In short; I would say that primary themes help tell the story of God's master plan; or, as Navigator's states in the concept Dawson Trotman states "to know Christ and to make Him known." The exclusivity of Christ in such passages as John 3:16 show how to be saved

1 Samuel 13

Saul's LACK of prayer to God for guidance leads to a foolish decision which would cost him leadership over the Kingdom.

Verses 13-14 show a stern rebuke from Samuel toward Saul after he decided to purposely circumvent instructions and do a sacrifice himself; something only the Priests were authorized to do. Samuel was gone for a spell; no doubt much like the story of Moses when he was gone for a while and Aaron did a pagan sacrifice to satisfy the people. In this case it was an attempt at proper procedure but again obedience is better than sacrifice ( 1 Samuel 15:22).

1 Samuel 14

Verse 37 states Saul's prayer to God.

"And Saul asked counsel of God, Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? But he answered him not that day."

This perhaps is the second sign of things getting screwed up in Saul's decisions before he became totally unhinged. In short; he received no answer from God yet when seeking out who was responsible for transgressing the vow he made with God his own son Jonathan came up. God did reveal that; but the vow itself was foolish; that being no one could eat the whole day until the battlefield campaign was completed. His son WOULD have been under the rule of this vow except for the fact that he didn't KNOW about it as everyone else DID. Also the fact that Saul wanted him dead for that shows how ridiculous it was; there was no such ontingency in the vow in the first place as a punishment. God sustained everyone but nonetheless the Lord was no doubt holding him somewhat culpable here; first of all if they hadn't had provisions right at that point something disastrous may have happened while pillaging the camp. Also if he had been right with God and he was against the army the Lord would have told him that was the case.

1 Samuel 15. The verse quoted above in verse 22 shows how Saul's Kingdom was done with after disobeying commands to destroy Anak and not killing all animals.

More on sincere and insincere prayers based on the persistent widow in Luke 8

The THIRD way we can approach the Lord is ostensively request something known to be part of God's will from scripture; or at least neutral and thus within the confines of a penitent heart to ask of the Lord to grant. I will go with the premise on this site that anyone who has embarked to read even a fraction of my loquacious posts is in that category. (Also they probably have sought patience from above to sift through all this material which probably dominates this site from time to time).

As to this type of prayer; I could exit this post if God always gave a clear answer to such prayers; at least immediately. I will gladly surrender my posts once He returns as all things will be established; and we shall see God. (Probably have to leave my laptop behind at the Rapture anyway).

HOW God typically answers as to His timing and methodology as I seem to say all too often I have posted already. Knowing me I'll have something more to say on it anyway...but for here I thought it prudent to examine more closely our initial approach so that we don't as Shakespeare stated evoke "sound and fury signifying nothing" (I think from MacBeth).

I won't pretend it is easy to see verses like Hebrews 12:17 where Esau saught carefully with tears and could NOT obtain the blessing. It seems he was destined to be lost; but this verse is specifically in regard to the family blessing or lineage; perhaps it could be related to our spiritual REWARDS which we can't receive short of true service through obedience as that is better than sacrifice. ( 1 Samuel 15:22). God has His means to all acts of consecration and perhaps reminds us of John 10:1 on those trying to get into the sheepfold by a different way and the fact that they are a thief and robber. These still seem to suggest known transgressions or a bad soul condition; so I will turn once again to what seems genuine in my next post.

Error: In my last post I meant the second wife of MOSES. In questioning this she not only could be said to be discriminating RACIALLY; but also it involved cultural assimilation which she was stubborn about. The big point as well would be Moses and his authority which was questioned in Numbers 12. She felt that herself and Aaron should have more say; and we can remember the verse "rebellion is as witchcraft" in such actions ( 1 Samuel 15:23). It makes one wonder what went down when Aaron was honoring the golden calf when Moses was in the mountains the first 40 days and nights as to the silence of Miriam with such disgraceful condescension; again a warning to women in leadership.

Liars: Final warning of those in hell from Revelation 21:8

Definition: Merriam-Webster defines a liar as someone who tells lies. No comment here on how great that definition is..:(

I will state as I have numerous times that no names need to be given here; just a mere mention of politics whether "donkeys or elephants" should suffice. I have said to people on occasion that a liar is worse than a murderer. The Apostle Paul is my "exhibit A" in that he at least was complicit in murder but did it in ignorance ( 1 Timothy 1:13). What we can't say is that he ever lied about his intentions; everyone knew his impassioned motives in the persecution. Lying is probably the most common methodology for maintaining a lifestyle of sin; if not lying to ourselves as to what we are doing and the consequences it is lying to others for self promotion. There are scriptural instances of lying where the midwives told Pharoah that the babies he wanted to kill were born before they could get to them. ( Exodus 1:19). There are other cases where for instance the full census wasn't given of the Israelites (Levites excluded) because the evil was sensed in King David's request that Satan himself had supplanted his heart to perform. I won't quibble here on that but certainly when we find a lie as the only way to preserve a life it is different than when it is merely self promoting.

In concealing a matter; as a case study we aren't helping ourselves ( Prov. 28:13). Hiding our sins is only going to be destructive. We will in time be found out. Lying of course can attempt to distract from any sort of transgression so again it seems that it may be most dangerous and deliberately at the end of sins leading to damnation. We need to heed carefully David's reaction when Nathan said "YOU ARE THE MAN" ( 2 Samuel 12:7). Saul wasn't ever able to repent; even though he said that he sinned ( 1 Samuel 15:24). This is like Pharaoh in Exodus 9:27 or Judas in Matthew 27:4. Worldly sorrow.

1 Corinthians 11:4 discusses a woman praying or prophesying with a head covering; hence the concept of silence is only perhaps in a formal service. It also may suggest that asking questions as a distraction isn't to happen rather than the concept of always remaining silent.

These verses also show the limit of a woman in regard to expression in worship settings since they are not to have authority over a man ( 1 Timothy 2:12). This fairly well mirrors the Old Testament where at least in the Book of Judges and a few other instances there were women acting as a Prophetess. There were no female priests at least with Judaism; these occurred with pagan rights quite often; however. It will be noted the consistency in messages at that time with God's overall plan in other texts as well as overall history. Judges 4:9 is an interesting passage with Deborah predicting victory in Sisera at the hands of a woman; perhaps that is one reason God used her. It is also said the lack of visions and available male prophets at the time may have necessitated God using her in this occasion.

There are cases where women would praise God in a prophetic manner; in Exodus 15 Moses started off with a victory song; and Miriam joined in later in verses 20-21. This shows they were in one accord.

If we survey what are the fruits or results of women who take on roles forbidden in scripture usually we see spurious doctrine manifest. 1 Samuel 15:23 reminds us that rebellion is as witchcraft. We see quite often the other half of the problem; namely men that are unwilling to take on the role as head of the household and the responsibilities in worship services. Thus we have a major part of the breakdown of society.

Women also need to fully take on teaching their children; guiding younger women as well as evangelizing to women in this generation; albeit perhaps leaving some more dangerous assignments to men. A woman with more intellegence can help men behind the scenes.

Aaron was given to Moses as his "mouthpiece" so to speak after his many protests on not being a man of learned speech and such in Exodus 4:10. Moses tested God quite a bit with his trepidation which was a side affect of being the most humble man alive (See Numbers 12:3). This caused Aaron to be a thorn in his side. There were two ways to approach the masses; with dogged determination to God's will as Moses demonstrated; and to acquiesce to their pleas. We see a similar pattern with the sacrifice made the wrong way by Saul in 1 Samuel 13:9. Ultimately; Saul was shown to have a rebellious self seeking life that went away from true worship of God; in this verse he was also trying to placate people ignoring God's methodology to his own peril. That was one step away from idolotry.

Aaron's sin was basically equivalent to a death penalty; breaking the 1st commandment; and with the sexual things implied many other things deserving such an end such as is indicated in verses 6 and 25. Poor Moses had to go another 40 days fasting after his first fast; and acted as intercessor then and several other times when God wanted to destroy the whole lot of the exiles and start anew. In the end only Caleb and Joshua from that generation survived; all the rest that made it into the Promised Land were the children of the original families that came out of Egypt.

Moses also had to deal with Miriam when she made a fuss about his Ethiopian wife in Numbers 12:10. Aaron could have been more proactive in dealing with it before her leprosy came as punishment.

This should serve as a warning to all; especially when a great spiritual victory has just happened such as a genuine move of God. Rebellion is as witchcraft ( 1 Samuel 15:23); and stems from the same root of corruption. This is why we can't just proclaim we are Christians without evidence of trust in God; fear of the Lord and other such good fruit being evident. We also must choose God over popular opinions.

Hi Adam

You asked,

Why can't both verses be true?

I do believe both verses are true.

I appreciate very much your input.

I am struggling to understand,

Are you saying we are saved by both works and grace?

I did say I do believe we are saved by both.

But as far as Bible contradictions, they do exist.

And to say Paul and James contradict would not be an issue.

The Bible contradicts itself quite often.

It is not uncommon.

Nevertheless, it does not shake my faith in the Bible.

For example,

Matthew records Christ came through David's son Solomon ( Matthew 1:6)

But Luke records Christ came through David's son Nathan ( Luke 3:31)

Exodus 33:20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.

Exodus 33:11 And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend.

And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah. ( 2 Samuel 24:1)

And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. ( 1 Chronicles 21:1)

Who provoked David, God or Satan?

Is Judah or Dan are a lion's whelp?

And of Dan he said, Dan is a lion's whelp: he shall leap from Bashan. ( Deuteronomy 33:22)

Judah is a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a lion, and as an old lion; who shall rouse him up? ( Genesis 49:9)

And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people. ( Exodus 32:14)

And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent. ( 1 Samuel 15:9)

Concluding thoughts

This reminds us of Gideon when he asked the angel whose side are you on and he said "the Lord's side." ( Joshua 5:13-15). As with anything else the attitudes of the heart are more important than a surface level of the law. Or; in order to do what was expected "obedience is better than sacrifice." ( 1 Samuel 15:22). This is why certain functions were only done by priests. Christ Himself; of course was fully God and fully man; certainly the Creator could do as He wished. Mercy and compassion were used over and over to the obstinate Pharisees who Christ would frequently bother doing miracles on the Sabbath. Luke 14:5 shows that compassion to an animal is a "work" that someone with compassion would do if an animal fell in a pit. ( Proverbs 12:10-12).

The law until the church was established was still in effect; and people were told to do what was required but not the way the Pharisees did as they were full of hypocrisy. ( Matthew 23:23). The law now was summarized by Christ by loving God with all your heart; soul; mind and strength and loving your neighbor as yourself ( Luke 10:27). We are asked now in the N.T. NOT to follow "holy days" and such ( Galatians 4:9-10). Some say there is controversy there; but it is clear that Paul did meet on the first day of the week ( Acts 20:7); and collections were to be prepared that day ( 1 Cor. 16:2). At the very least; the Son of man being lord of the Sabbath trumps any earlier Sabbath laws since we are under a New Covenant as to having to meet Saturdays.

It would appear that Sunday worship was established; although I will not argue that it is to be substituted for what was Saturday worship; or it is wrong any day to gather for corporate worship. The effect of the law certainly doesn't bring a death penalty. However; many laws that did (the clearest being murder) hasn't helped society today with it's lawlessness; clearly.

Once He comes in the Millennium; He will rule with a rod of iron and enforce law.

This is a very interesting section; and I have never heard anything preached on the subject of an edict mandating the respect of wives for husbands that is given here by the King after he is "dissed" so to speak from his wife Queen Vashti. Jut discovered it myself. It is questionable; of course thenecessity of showing her "beauty" to all (v. 11); not to mention the whole show of opulence and feasts showing off the king's glory . The decree in verse 20 basically commanding honor of wives to husbands would be broadcast throughout the entire empire (from Ethiopia to India). It is noteworthy that this is the single largest territorial expanse mentioned in all scripture.

Once again; a transgression that surely would have incurred a death penalty with the likes of characters such as Henry VIII did NOT result in a divorce. Keep in mind; this is a secular King. It seems fairly certain that divorce; if it did occur was quite rare and certainly didn't become widespread until some time at least in the Intertestamental era. It would seem that in a secular society such as Rome; it was vastly promulgated as apparently it wasn't all that unusual from historical accounts. It only was addressed (other than Deut. 24); once we got to the N.T.

There are questions that have been raised as to Esther's morality or lack thereof in the later chapters in the "beauty contest". Nevertheless; she became his wife. As to women with multiple husbands; it doesn't seem to be in the Bible either. It is likely that if the Queen was allowed to live; there were no longer relations; and she would be shut up in her residence as a sort of prisoner. I am not judging the validity of what went down here as to what he did to his wife but the verse in 1 Samuel 15:23 comes to mind. It is truly sad to see today how a desire for superiority has robbed much of a generation or two of women of true inner beauty; and godliness. In turn; men are more wimpy; and children rebellious.

It is important to remember the admonition in Luke "help me with my unbelief" ( Mark 9:24). There is too much emphasis these days as I am sure you are aware of emotion in regard to worship. That being said; there needs at some point in are walk a recognition that the Spirit is living inside us. Hebrews 12:6 indicates that "He chastises all He loves". Recognition of the BENEFITS of this makes us live as Peter did rather than Judas Iscariot who Christ never took the time to rebuke. Iron sharpens iron ( Prov. 27:17). Exhortation; along with encouragement among the saints seems to be a forgotten trait; but nonetheless is helpful in building up the church.

It is certain from the Prophets and their encounters with the Living God that when we stand before our judge; there is no lack of sensing His Holiness. Another problem today is the lack of fear of God. Numerous verses indicate that the "fear of God is the beginning of understanding ( Prov. 9:10).

Clearly there are two things that stand in the way of sensing the Spirit of God if we are truly saved. Before this; the "god of this world" has blinded man to the truth. ( 2 Cor. 4:4). The first issue is the old nature; which is continually contending with the Spirit; and vice versa. Our minds are saturated with all sorts of imaginations due to our fallen nature; and the way it has been marred with past patterns of sin. In tandem with this; of course is Satan and his minions which work with the world system to keep men in subjection. There is certainly the issue of spiritual oppression even if a believer can't be possessed directly (a debatable issue). We need to evaluate if there is any wicked way in us; and realize that "obedience is better than sacrifice". ( 1 Samuel 15:22). Other N.T. verses indicate that before offering a sacrifice; forgiveness with an estranged brother is needed. We are also commanded to love the brethren; and esteem others as higher than ourselves. I hope this helps somewhat.

Chris as I've been studying prophecy I've realized it was given in times when it was needed, either for correction or for hope, direction, protection. If things were obvious it wouldn't be needed. I am referring to all prophetic here. Matthew 2:12,13, Matthew 16:22-27, Luke 13:33,34, Luke 2:26, Daniel 10:1-3, 1 Samuel 3-1,9,10,11,12,13,14, it's also for revelation, exposure: when a person thinks they've hidden something from others or GOD= 1 Samuel 15:10-29, 2 Samuel 11 & 12, 2 Chronicles 20:20, There are many examples in scripture.

Those two examples you've given wouldn't seem to me prophetic but foresight if it didn't edify the Church, encouraged, give direction, revelation etc., In line with GOD & HIS Words we could reflect on. Ezekiel is an example of very strange exhibited behavior probably to get the attention of "a stubborn people" so even if someone seems weird that might not be a reason not to listen. So, in the examples you gave on the surface it seems irrelevant to us.

Let me give an example. Yesterday we were discussing Australia. Amanda Grace has given prophetic 'Words' regarding Australia saying things like "GOD hasn't forgotten you Australia" she said several things about leadership & GOD knowing the wrong that some leadership were doing. I think she said an earthquake would be a sign, there was a large earthquake very soon after then a few political things happened with people stepping down. Then just recently a Pro.Life Premier was elected. Looks to reflect in line with GOD's will. Her blog has her written prophectic Words Amanda Grace Ark of Grace.

Even with accurate 'Words' 1 Kings 13:11-34, Deuteronomy 13:1-5, serve GOD only. Hopefully this helps

Hi T. Lewis Sauls error was out of a heart issue of pride which goeth before a fall read 1 Samuel 15:9-26 first he blamed the people that he ruled over then lies to the man of God Samuel then sacrifices to God for show which is worse the end result is disobedience or rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft up until that time God was with him after that the true God was not talking to him at all. He became sick in the head and full of fear to the point of trying to kill the next appointed King David. Spiritually he was done.

Do you think the final decision was when Saul killed the priests of the LORD & their children, cattle, wives? Psalm 105:14-15

1 Samuel 22:12-23 or the hypocrisy in not obeying GOD to kill the enemy's cattle, & leaving the enemy king alive yet not sparing GOD's priests? 1 Samuel 15:18-35 Was Sauls fear of losing his power greater than his fear of GOD?

Did you notice? David feared GOD & would not lay his hand on GOD's anointted & felt remorseful for cutting Saul's garment.

1 Samuel 24:4,5,6 , 1 Samuel 24:10,

Saul also ripped Samuel's garment 1 Samuel 15:27 however 1 Samuel 15:28-29. Even after remorseful repentance 1 Samuel 15:29,30,35

Do think the significance of the clothing was a factor? 1 Samuel 2:19, His mother's sacrifice 1 Samuel 1:28

Saul pursued David to kill him: 1 Samuel 19:1,10,11,15,

& Saul ordered the prophets of GOD killed, possibly unarmed, their families, livestock & nursing babies included.; 1 Samuel 22:17,18,19 Same Saul that left the enemy King & livestock alive in disobedience to GOD's orders. 1 Samuel 15:1,2,3,8,9,

Psalms 105:15

David's mercy 2 Samuel 9:3-7,

David's sin & judgement: 2 Samuel 12:7,9,11,12,14,18, 2 Samuel 13:1,6,7,8,12,13,14,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,28,29,30,31,32, after years 2 Samuel 14:25,30,31,32, 2 Samuel 15:6,10,12,13,14,16,23,30,31, 2 Samuel 16:3,5,6,7,8,11,13,22, 2 Samuel 17:21,23,29, 2 Samuel 18:5,7,9,10,12,14,15,17,20,27,32,33, 2 Samuel 19:1-4, "the sword did not depart from his house" etc. There were more scriptures about his consequences _.

Queen Vashti, consequence Ester 1:19, Ester 2:4

Saul then 1 Samuel 28:3,7,18,19

David has Psalms of remorseful repentance, gives glory to GOD ALMIGHTY, shows mercy & humility at times. With Saul he shows remorse but didn't read much of repentance, etc.

However the Bible says: 1 Colossians 1:20,

Job 12:16

Hopefully these are helpful in your study.

Indeed Lighton, a verse with those words would be difficult to find. The only ones that could come a little close are found in: Numbers 23:19 (where the word 'repent', would be 'a change of mind or relent'); 1 Samuel 15:29 (the same Hebrew word is used here as well); Isaiah 49:15 (where the "woman" signifies humankind (of the flesh) who might even forget their nursing children, but God would never). I realize that none of these fit perfectly to what you're seeking - maybe you'll get some other suggestions.

1 Samuel 15:23

For rebellion IS AS the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness IS AS iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

Jeremiah 28:16

Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will cast thee from off the face of the earth: this year thou shalt die, because thou hast taught REBELLION against the LORD.

Mishael

Hello,

Unfortunately, I think your missing the point. The point that I was making is that the persons of the Old Testament who did God's will, had God's favor and acceptance. Those who did not do God's will or stopped doing God's will, lost God's favor and acceptance.

Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Joseph, David, and many others did what God told them to do and had God's favor. Cain, Korah, King Saul, and many others disobeyed God and lost God's favor.

Would Noah have retained God's favor had he stopped building the ark? (No.)

Would Korah have avoided being destroyed by God, had he stopped opposing Moses? (Yes.)

1 Samuel 15:22-23 "And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in OBEYING THE VOICE OF THE LORD? Behold, TO OBEY is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also REJECTED THEE from being king.

1 Chronicles 28:9 "And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but IF THOU FORSAKE HIM, HE WILL CAST THEE OFF FOR EVER."

The Apostles, writing to the Christians, warned them time and time again to obey God and not to disobey God.

See 1 Corinthians 10:1-12.

Kindly.

I don't think that Bible teachers avoid such passages; maybe those passages just don't come up in their course of studies or preaching. If you look at a commentaries, I'm sure you will find detailed comments about such issues.

When I consider them (such as 1 Samuel 15:3), or when God commands that the heathen be driven out of their lands, or to kill the males & save the women & children, I understand that God is exercising His Authority & right to do what He wants with His creation. Do we feel the same way when only 8 souls were saved in the Great Flood & many thousands of men, women, children & animals were destroyed? Or, when tragedy strikes us today (e.g. a Tsunami, earthquake, virus) & again an innumerable number destroyed?

Jeremiah 18:1-10 teaches us that God, the Potter, has the full right to do as He pleases with His creation. If God decides to strike me down today, does anyone have the right to ask Him, 'Why'. The problem then arises, when referring to those OT Scriptures, is in regards to whether any of God's appointed leaders, such as Joshua, Saul, etc., did actually receive God's Commands or were prompted by their own lust for war & destruction. I'm in no way suggesting this as I believe that God did speak & directed His servants in how they should deal with the heathen, but I only suggest this because people will query the authenticity of the Divine Command & therefore the issue needs to be dealt with them.

In this vein, I think of the Islamic prophet, Muhammed, who too claimed to be called by God to destroy the heathen idolators living in the cities of Mecca & Medina. Did He call him to do so, or was it done of his own volition? In the NT, we're never told to go out & slaughter anyone, but sadly it has been done in the name of Christianity (e.g. the Crusades, etc.). Ours is always the Gospel of love to all people. Yet, God hasn't finished with the World: millions more will yet be struck down by God through various means for their sins.

In 1 Sam 15:11,God regretted that he made Saul king. In Genesis, He regretted that He made man. Man says God is omniscient which suggests He knows tomorrow which is preached as such from the pulpit. We sometimes know in advance we are about to move wrong but we move anyway and invoke that old idiom, "I know I'm gonna regret this."

Why we do it is because; we decide the possible gain is worth the risk, we throw caution to the wind, we are wanton and careless by nature or we have an obsessive/compulsive urge or disorder. Is it our fumbling of language that causes us from the Hebrew translation forward to cause a sentence to say that God, though seeing a negative outcome, proceeded regardless? The wording subsequent to the act "...for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments...." is indicative of a fresh observation and not words recognizing an anticipated failure. I pray, believe, am born again and I like witnessing to unbelievers with confidence. Several instances exist of God appearing to be surprised though it's preached that it can't be. In Gen. 11, 5-7, God sees and reacts to an unwelcomed situation in the plain English reading of KJV. Doctrine seems esteemed over literal Bible with many preachers. Discrepancies and contradictions exist which are denied with many seeming to believe God dictated the Bible rather than inspired the writing (except in a couple places). Most never mention that Constantine influenced powerful doctrinal elements yet create narratives embracing those elements as if they are scripture or stretch certain Bible verses and scriptures or interpret them to complement their narrative. Do you think God intended the Bible exactly as is? Why so many versions, doctrines, denominations? Do you see a distinction between liberality and evil that led 50% of the nation to vote for one opposing life for babies, defense of Israel, Christian right of speech over pervert laws claiming it to be hate speech, less law?

Richard, you are correct that sacrifices were conducted at the Temple court, however in this era, they would have normally been conducted at the Tabernacle or at a dedicated Altar. Yet, if you read that portion carefully, when the people saved the best of the cattle of the enemy (the Amalekites), Saul was severely chastised by God through Samuel the prophet for not destroying all living creatures even though Saul had assumed that the cattle would come in handy for sacrificial purposes.

But Saul was rejected because of his disobedience (rebellion) in this matter, his sin being likened to the evil of witchcraft & idolatry. Saul then realized his error but his disobedience even meant that "God repented that He made Saul a king over Israel". So, I understand that the cattle saved as part of the booty, were probably meant for sacrifice at Gilgal, which was a special (sacred) place (Joshua chap 4) where Joshua erected the 12 stones (representing the 12 tribes). Then they sacrificed at Shiloh, a short distance away, where the Tabernacle was set up ( Joshua 18:1).

in 1 samuel 15;21 i thought sacrifices were to be made at the temple

On 1 SAMUEL 15:29

The Word of God is God ( John 1:1) and is not of any private interpretation ( 2 Peter 1:20).

The word 'Repent' in different forms (repent, repentance, repented, repentest, repenteth, repenting, repentings) is mentioned 110 times in the KJV, and means a lot more than what people by nature have been conditioned to believe. The word 'repent' used in the New Testament was translated from the Greek word "metanoeo", and means to change, transform, to think differently or reconsider.

It is the key principle of all the teachings of Jesus Christ and the axiom (basis) of the Word of God and a prerequisite and primary requirement for the salvation of mankind. It actually means the changing of spirits - to turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God ( Acts 26:18).

For a better understanding and the 'spiritual truth' of what it means to repent, and learn how and by whom mankind has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9) and what people must do to be reunited with the true and living God, we invite you to seek Him according to the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive ( Matthew 7:7; John 14:17).

You need not that any man teach you ( Isaiah 54:13; 6:45; 1 John 2:27), as mankind follows after an image of a false god and a false Christ ( Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22; Gal. 4:8; 2 Cor. 11:13-15; Rev. 12:9).

It is only by revelation of God that people will come to know the true Christ ( Daniel 12:4,9; Amos 3:7; Matthew 16:17; Luke 2:26; Romans 16:25; 1 Cor. 2:10; Gal. 1:16; Eph. 3:3,5; Rev. 1:1), and only then will you be able to overcome the spirit of this world ( 1 John 5:4; Rev. 3:21) and learn what 'True Repentance' means, and how this whole world has been deceived ( Rev. 12:9). It should also be remembered that it is a narrow way that leadeth unto 'Life', and few there be that find it ( Matthew 7:14).

LUKE 15:10. LIKEWISE, I SAY UNTO YOU, THERE IS JOY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ANGELS OF GOD OVER ONE SINNER THAT REPENTETH.

Praise the Lord,

The five smooth stones are part of a Rock ( 1 Corinthians 10:4) i.e. Jesus Christ . So Jesus Christ is nothing but word of God ( John 1:1 & 14). Matthew 21:44 Its a weapon and Lord has given us spiritual weapon to fight against all demonic powers against us. They are 1. Faith : Hebrew 11:1,6 Hebrews 12:2, Galatians 5:22(F.O.S), 1 Corinthians 12:9(G.O.S) Ephesians 6:16(A.O.G), Matthew 17:20 2.Word of God: John 1:1, Psalms 107:20, Isaiah 55:11, Hebrews 4:12 3. Prayer : Jeremiah 33:3, Matthew 17:21 4. Anointing : Isaiah 10:27, 5. Obedience : 1 Samuel 15:22. If we have this five spiritual smooth stones which formed from Jesus , we can overcome this world. ( 1 John 5:4). David had faith in the Lord and put it into action, also had the special horn anointing to break all the yolks by obeying to the voice of the God. David was a man of prayer. Big things comes in small packages. Victory is ours.

Praise the Lord,

The five smooth stones are part of a Rock ( 1 Corinthians 10:4) i.e. Jesus Christ . So Jesus Christ is nothing but word of God ( John 1:1 & 14). Matthew 21:44 Its a weapon and Lord has given us spiritual weapon to fight against all demonic powers against us. They are 1. Faith : Hebrew 11:1,6 Hebrews 12:2, Galatians 5:22(F.O.S), 1 Corinthians 12:9(G.O.S) Ephesians 6:16(A.O.G), Matthew 17:20 2.Word of God: John 1:1, Psalms 107:20, Isaiah 55:11, Hebrews 4:12 3. Prayer : Jeremiah 33:3, Matthew 17:21 4. Anointing : Isaiah 10:27, 5. Obedience : 1 Samuel 15:22. If we have this five spiritual smooth stones which formed from Jesus , we can overcome this world. ( 1 John 5:4). David had faith in the Lord and put it into action, also had the special horn anointing to break all the yolks by obeying to the voice of the God. David was a man of prayer. Big things comes in small packages. Victory is ours. Let God's name alone glorified,

Amen.

Adam, I think that the verses you have cited reflect that while God acts freely, His purpose, His promises and His Plan do not change. He destroyed the world, but kept Noah. God is in control of everything, and as Romans 9 says, Who can say to Him, why did you make me this way?

While Jonah 3:10 and 1 Samuel 15:29 might seem contradictory, they are not. For a better understanding of these verses, we have to take them in context. The things said in the Bible are presented in human terms, so we can understand them better.

But I agree, on the surface, they may seem problematic.

Hi Carlos, I agree. God allows himself to change his mind, like Genesis 18:32, Jonah 3:10, Amos 7:3. It's a little confusing to reconcile this with 1 Samuel 15:29.

Yes April JESUS,s blood is sufficient for all sins 1John 1:7 The blood of JESUS CHRIST cleanseth us from all sin.HE had not yet shed HIS blood in Manasseh's day. Hebrews 9:12-14.But if we reject HIS blood then judgement comes. Hebrews 10:28-29.

April; there's a Scripture about that in 2 Kings 24:4; which says that for the place being filled with innocent blood, the Lord does not forgive! Speaking of Manasseh, the son of Hezekiah, "And also for the innocent blood that he shed: for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the LORD would not pardon." This Country is full of innocent blood, and the Rulers refuse to judge righteously!