The Prophets. Samuel was not only both judge and priest and prophet,
but as prophet he performed conspicuous services in several
directions. Probably the most notable of all his work was the
establishment of schools of prophets, which greatly dignified the work
of the prophets. After this time, the prophet and not the priest was
the medium of communication between God and his people.

Saul. As king, Saul began well and under favorable circumstances. He
gave himself to military exploits and neglected the finer spiritual
matters and soon made a complete break with Samuel, who represented
the religious-national class-and thereby lost the support of
the best elements of the nation. He then became morose and melancholy
and insanely jealous in conduct and could not, therefore, understand
the higher religious experiences that were necessary as a
representative of Jehovah on the throne of Israel.

Analysis.

I. Career of Samuel, Chs. 1-7.

1. His birth and call, Chs. 1-3.

2. His conflict with the Philistines, Chs. 4-7.

II. Career of Saul to his rejection, Chs. 8-15.

1. Chosen as King, Chs. 8-10.

2. Wars with Philistines, Chs. 11-14.