GRADE 8 CRE THE BIBLE – LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL:SAUL Notes
LEADERSHIP IN ISRAEL: SAUL
Subject: CRE (Christian Religious Education) — Topic: The Bible
For: Kenyan learners (age 13)
Saul was the first king of Israel. He was tall, from the tribe of Benjamin, and chosen by God through the prophet Samuel. (See 1 Samuel chapters 9–10.)
How Saul became king
- Samuel anointed Saul as king after God told Samuel to choose a leader (1 Sam 9–10).
- There were signs to show Saul would be king — God’s Spirit came on him and people accepted him.
Good qualities and successes ⚔️🛡️
- Brave and strong — led army campaigns and rescued Israel from enemies (for example, the victory at Jabesh-gilead, 1 Sam 11).
- Brought unity to Israel for a time by having a central king.
Major mistakes and failures ✖️
- Disobedience in worship: Saul offered a sacrifice himself instead of waiting for Samuel (1 Sam 13:8–14). This showed he did not wait on God.
- Failed to follow God’s command: He spared King Agag and the best animals instead of destroying everything as God commanded (1 Sam 15). Samuel told him, “To obey is better than sacrifice.”
- Pride and jealousy: Saul became jealous of David and made wrong choices that hurt himself and others.
Consequences
Because of disobedience, God rejected Saul as king. Samuel told Saul the kingdom would be taken away, and God later chose David (1 Sam 15–16). Saul’s life ended in battle (1 Sam 31).
"To obey is better than sacrifice." — 1 Samuel 15:22 (simple paraphrase)
Saul was chosen because the people wanted a king like other nations (1 Sam 8), but God’s plan for leadership includes obedience and a humble heart.
Lessons for Kenyan youths
- Obedience to God matters more than appearing religious.
- Leaders must listen to wise advice — talk to elders, teachers and prophets (advisers).
- Pride and jealousy can destroy a leader’s life. Humility keeps relationships strong.
- Good leadership serves others and follows God’s instructions.
Class activities (short)
- Role‑play: One student acts as Saul, another as Samuel. Act the scene where Samuel tells Saul to obey God. Discuss feelings and choices.
- Group discussion: Why is obeying teachers and parents important in school and at home? Link to obedience to God.
- Write a short paragraph: "If I were a leader in my school, how would I lead like a good servant of God?"
Reflection questions (think or discuss)
- Why do you think Saul disobeyed God even after being chosen as king?
- How can a leader in your school show humility?
- Which part of Saul’s story warns you the most? Why?
Lord, help us to be humble, to obey You and to lead others with love and wisdom. Give our leaders hearts that listen. Amen.
References: 1 Samuel chapters 8–31 for the story of Saul; key events: anointing (1 Sam 9–10), victory (1 Sam 11), disobedience (1 Sam 13, 15), rejection and David chosen (1 Sam 15–16).