Constitutional Monarchy

In the first part of 1 Samuel 10:25, we are told that Samuel “explained to the people the behavior of royalty.” At first glance, it seems that Samuel is simply repeating for the people the warnings he delivered to the elders in 8:11–18, telling them what to expect now that they have their king. Actually, however, he is doing something much more profound and important here. In chapter 8, Samuel explained the typical behavior of monarchs, behavior exemplified by most if not all of the kings of other nations. But here, the prophet is stating publicly how die kings of Israel are to rule. That is why the New International Version says that Samuel here gives the people “the regulations of kingship.” These regulations, undoubtedly based on God’s dictates in Deuteronomy 17:14–20, place limits on the powers of Saul and his successors. Matthew Henry writes: “He had before told them the manner of the king (8:11), how he would abuse his power; now he tells them the manner of the kingdom, or rather the law, or judgment, or constitution, of it, what power the prince might challenge and the utmost of the property the subject might claim. He fixed the land-marks between them, that neither might encroach upon the other.” When he has finished speaking, Samuel writes his words in a book and places it “before the Lord,” probably with the ark of the covenant in Kirjath Jearim (7:1). There it serves as a “testimony” (Deut. 31:26), a standard by which Israel’s kings might be judged.

When Samuel dismisses the people from the assembly at Mizpah, everyone goes home, including Saul, a fact that Henry attributes to the king’s humility. It appears that the majority of the people are unconcerned about the change of government, believing that they will see little change in their day-to-day lives. But the author of 1 Samuel reports at least two other reactions. First, some “valiant men” decide to join Saul’s retinue. God touches their hearts, causing them to commit to royal service. But others, “rebels” (or “sons of Belial”; see 2:12), are contemptuous of Saul’s ability to lead the nation. It may be that they are jealous of him, but their real sin is unbelief, for they refuse to accept the clearly demonstrated truth that God has chosen Saul. For his part, Saul hears of their contempt but says nothing. He leaves it to the God who has chosen him to vindicate his fitness for the kingship.