Second Verse, Somewhat Like the First

This is the study page for the Thursday Night Bible Study Group meeting August 8 to study 1 Samuel 11.  This is a short chapter, but still full of interesting stuff.  It continues the establishment account of the monarchy of Israel.  There's one more chapter of this then the narrative of the monarchy begins.  This narrative (from chapter 8 through 12) seems to be made up of two or more different accounts blended together.  It's not all that important to determine where they were blended, but if you keep that in mind, it helps to follow the storyline and account for oddities.

Read the chapter through a lot (hopefully you have been, it's very short).  Look for pieces that seem to be at odds with other parts we've already covered.  Jot down notes and questions.  Please ask these questions at the group, we really need your perspective to get a better view of our Master's character.

After a few passes through and your own notes/questions, review the chapter again with these questions:

• Read the article on the Ammonites.  Why do you think this leader wanted to embarrass Israel?
• What "role" does Nahash play in Ammon? Who is this guy?
• Why do you think Nahash would let the elders of the city send messengers throughout Israel?
• The Spirit of God causes Saul to be angry.  What do you think about that?
• What do you think is the significance of the threat of slaughtered oxen?  Why would that work?
• Think about the response of the people.  What sort of "fear" is this?  
• This is probably one of the largest armies fielded by Israel.  But why do you think they were numbered separately for Judah?
• Why do you think the men of Jabesh would tell Nahash what they did?  
• Why do the people want to kill the "naysayers" against Saul now?
• What sort of character do you see in Saul that he doesn't want to kill them?
• Now where do they establish the kingdom?  Is this where Saul waits seven days?
• What differences do you see between this establishment and the prior one at Mizpah?

Consider these along with your own notes and questions.  Between us, I'm sure some interesting qualities of God will emerge.  I look forward to seeing you all Thursday!