Commentary on 1 Samuel 10:12

1 Samuel 10:12 reads: “And one of the same place answered and said, But who is their father? Therefore it became a proverb, Is Saul also among the prophets?” This verse encapsulates a remarkable moment in Saul's early reign and provides rich theological insights.

Contextual Background

The context of 1 Samuel 10 is pivotal in understanding Saul's anointing as king and the unfolding of Israel's monarchy. The nation of Israel, desiring a king to govern them like other nations, finds itself in a unique situation with God appointing Saul through the prophet Samuel.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the transformational nature of Saul's encounter with the Spirit of God. He mentions that Saul, a man from humble beginnings, was chosen not for his lineage but for God's sovereign purpose. This remark about being among the prophets speaks to the unexpected and often ironic twists in God’s selection of leaders. Henry notes:

• Humility of Saul's Calling: Saul was from the smallest tribe, Benjamin, and even among that tribe, he was of the least family, demonstrating that God's choice is beyond human comprehension.
• Prophetic Endowment: The occurrence of a change in Saul's heart (1 Samuel 10:9) and his prophesying signifies the enabling power of the Holy Spirit upon him, setting precedence for God's interaction with His chosen leaders.
• The Proverb's Significance: The saying “Is Saul also among the prophets?” serves to highlight the miraculous work of God in placing Saul among those who bear prophetic authority.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes strikes at the heart of Saul's anointing, delightedly questioning the nature of the transition from a mere man to a prophet. He notes that this transformation reflects divine intervention and serves as a testament to God's power. Barnes remarks:

• Divine Sovereignty: The rhetorical question posed in the verse implies a surprise at Saul's ability to prophesy, contrasting God’s workings with human expectations.
• Social Insights: The fact that someone questioned Saul’s prophetic role based on his lineage attests to the societal norms concerning authority and leadership, challenging us to rethink how God equips and empowers leaders.
• Faith and Obedience: Barnes invites reflection on the importance of faith and obedience in accepting God’s call regardless of personal qualifications, emphasizing that the Lord equips those He calls.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a critical analysis of the phrase, pointing to the implications of the proverb in the historical and cultural setting of Israel. Clarke writes:

• Cultural Context: The phrase reflects the astonishment of the people who see Saul, a man of low birth, engaged in prophetic activity, thus challenging societal norms which typically associate prophecy with the pious or the noble.
• Theology of Prophecy: Clarke emphasizes that prophecy is not tied to one’s lineage but rather to one’s relationship with God, serving as a reminder of God’s capacity to uplift the humble for His divine purposes.
• Significance of the Proverb: The proverb serves both as a point of ridicule and recognition, acknowledging Saul's unlikely experience which subsequently provokes thoughts about God’s ability to use anyone for His will.

Theological Implications

This verse invites readers to explore profound theological themes:

• The Nature of God's Calling: The divine calling reflects an inversion of societal expectations. God often chooses the weak and lowly to fulfill His purposes, thus reminding us that leadership in God’s kingdom transcends human standards.
• The Role of the Holy Spirit: Saul’s ability to prophesy indicates the active involvement of the Holy Spirit in equipping leaders. It underscores the importance of divine empowerment for effective service.
• Impressions of Modern Leadership: The verse challenges current notions of authority and capability in contemporary ministry, advocating that God’s criteria for leadership are rooted in spiritual authenticity rather than social status.

Conclusion

In summary, 1 Samuel 10:12 serves as a significant touchstone for understanding God’s sovereignty, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the radical way God upends societal norms through His chosen leaders. As pastors, students, and theologians reflect on this verse, they are reminded of the profound truth that in God's kingdom, the least are often made the greatest, and the humble are raised to positions of honor for His glory.