Life Group Questions

1. If you were not able to hear this week’s sermon, consider going to the church website and listening to it. What are some main ideas that you gathered from the sermon? Do you have any questions?

2. What are some of the qualities that made Saul appear to be a good candidate for Israel’s kingship? Why do you think we are so apt to look at outward appearances when judging someone’s qualifications for leadership?

3. Based on the writer’s story, how would you describe Saul? Can you detect any traits depicted in the story that would make us question his ability to lead others? Explain.

4. Was Saul chosen by the people or God (vvs. 15-17 and 20)? Do you ever struggle with the ideas of God’s providence and man’s free will? Can we find a balance between these theological concepts? Explain.

5. Read the following passages and describe some of the dangers associated with outward appearance: 1 Samuel 16:7; 17:42; Matthews 21:18-19; 2 Corinthians 5:11-12; 11:13-15; Colossians 2:23; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; Luke 18:10-14.

6. Read Psalm 119:33-37 and note at least three requests of the Psalmist that we should likewise desire.

7. Why do you think God chose Saul to be the king of Israel? Why do you think God has allowed some of the questionable leaders of our time to be in position?

by Terry Beatty /  Lead Teacher and Ministry Vision