Samuel Anoints Saul Sunday School Lesson
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In this Samuel Anoints Saul Sunday School lesson, children learn about an important turning point in Israel’s history. For many years, God had led His people through judges like Samuel. But the Israelites began asking for something different. They wanted a king so they could be like the nations around them.
Even though God had always been their true King, He allowed the people to choose an earthly ruler. God chose a man named Saul to become the first king of Israel. This lesson helps children understand how the Israelites’ desire to be like other nations changed their leadership—and reminds them that even when people make poor choices, God is still working out His plan.
Scripture Reference
Memory Verse
- “The Lord is our king.” Isaiah 33:22 (ESV)
Visual Aids
- Life of Samuel Flash-a-Card Set (optional)
Samuel Anoints Saul Key Points
- Israel asked for a king so they could be like other nations.
- Samuel warned the people that kings would take their sons, daughters, and possessions.
- The people insisted that they wanted a king anyway.
- God told Samuel to give them a king.
- God led Samuel to Saul from the tribe of Benjamin.
- Samuel anointed Saul with oil to show he had been chosen as king.
- Saul was tall and looked like a king, but he was also nervous about leading.
- Saul became the first king of Israel.
Opening Activity
- Review Old Testament books of the Bible through the book of 2 Samuel
Samuel Anoints Saul Lesson Overview for Teachers
The people of Israel asked Samuel to appoint a king so they could be like the nations around them. Samuel warned them that having a king would bring challenges, but the people insisted. God told Samuel to give them what they wanted.
God then led Samuel to a man named Saul from the tribe of Benjamin. Saul was tall and looked like a king, but he did not see himself as a leader. Samuel anointed Saul with oil to show that God had chosen him to be the first king of Israel.
This lesson introduces the beginning of Israel’s kings and helps students understand that while the people wanted to follow their own way, God was still guiding events according to His plan.
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Samuel Anoints Saul Craft Activity for Kids
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Samuel Anoints Saul Take-Home Activity
Final Thoughts + Free Lesson Download
God had always been the true King of Israel, but the people chose to follow their own way and ask for an earthly king. Even though their request was not part of God’s original plan, He still worked through it and chose Saul to lead His people. This lesson reminds us that God is always in control, even when people make choices that are not best.
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Happy Teaching!
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