1 Samuel 11: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 1 Samuel 11 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Nahash the Ammonite threatens Jabesh Gilead, demanding that they surrender under the condition of gouging out their right eyes (vv. 1-2). The elders seek help from Israel, requesting seven days to find someone to save them (vv.

Key verse

“God’s Spirit came mightily on Saul when he heard those words, and his anger burned hot.”
1 Samuel 11:6 (WEB)

Outline

1 Samuel 11:1–2 Nahash Threatens Jabesh-gilead
1 Samuel 11:3–4 Elders Seek Help from Israel
1 Samuel 11:5–6 Saul's Anger and God's Spirit
1 Samuel 11:7–8 Saul Mobilizes an Army
1 Samuel 11:9–10 Hope for Jabesh-gilead
1 Samuel 11:11–12 Victory over the Ammonites
1 Samuel 11:13–15 Saul's Kingship Affirmed

Discussion questions

In v2, what does Nahash demand as a condition for making a covenant with Jabesh Gilead?
What does Saul do with the yoke of oxen in v7, and what message does he send throughout Israel?
Saul's anger in v6: how does this emotional response shape his leadership and actions?
In v14, why does Samuel suggest renewing the kingdom at Gilgal after Saul's victory?
When have you felt compelled to act decisively in a situation like Saul did in v6?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Samuel 11: 1 Samuel 10, Judges 21, 1 Samuel 12.

Before next time: read 1 Samuel 12.