Comments on 1 Samuel 11 v1-4 Ammonites take it upon themselves to oppress Israelites along the borders in Jabesh-gilead and they attempt diplomacy (v. 1). The Israelites aren't thrilled with the terms of servitude the Ammonites offer (v. 2) so, taking advantage of this new king, attempt to get military protection (v. 3-4). v5 Saul, who was out plowing his fields, hears of the commotion and wants to know what is going on. The purpose of this verse is to show us that despite his being called king, he is still laboring with his own hands, and therefore humble (cp. Mosiah 2:14). And secondly, he is interested and cares about his people. v6-11 Saul is enraged by the oppression his fellow Israelites face and impelled by the Spirit to take action (v. 6). He summons all of Israel to war and performs a retributive token (cp. Gen. 15:9-10, Jer. 34:17-20) telling them that if they don't come out to aid their brothers they will be cut up like the oxen he has cut up, so the people fear him and God and come out to battle (v. 7). The people of Jabesh-gilead are informed by messenger that the army is on the way (v. 9) with 330,000 men (v. 8) to spare them. So, the people of Jabesh-gilead send word to the Ammonites saying that they will come out to meet them tomorrow, and they can try and do whatever they like to them (v. 10), an act of defiance to say the least. The following day the Israelites under Saul's leadership smash the Ammonites and cause the few survivors to flee. v12-13 After the victory, those who doubted Saul's capacity as leader (cp. 10:11-12, 27) are threatened with death. However, Saul magnanimously spares them and states such an act would mar a day in which the Lord has delivered Israel. Saul is still acknowledging and deferring to the Lord. The act of sparing those who questioned his capacity is again a mark of his humility, as well as sure to curry good will with Israel. v14-15 Rejoicing in this great victory, all the people again accept Saul as king at Samuel's behest. Saul has now proven himself. Note this time the acceptance is presented as universal, unlike the first time in ch. 10. Here, we have the turning point in Saul's career. Saul has gained popularity and public approval by becoming a physical deliverer, and he and the people rejoice in that. No longer is Saul the obscure, unknown farm boy from the smallest of tribes. No longer is he avoiding his public, he is now rejoicing along with them. Copyright © 2002 by S. Kurt Neumiller . All rights reserved. No part of this text may be reproduced in any form or by any means for commercial gain without the express written consent of the author. Digital or printed copies may be freely made and distributed for personal and public non-commercial use.