Why did Samuel anoint Saul in private before presenting him to all Israel?+
Samuel anointed Saul privately first to confirm God's choice through the specific signs and the Spirit's coming upon him. This private anointing was the divine consecration, while the public presentation at Mizpah was the official acknowledgment before Israel. The private anointing allowed Saul to experience the transformation the Spirit brings before facing the public and any potential opposition.
What is the significance of Saul prophesying with the band of prophets?+
When the Spirit of the Lord came upon Saul, he prophesied with the prophets, demonstrating that God's Spirit had indeed come upon him as Samuel predicted. This miraculous sign confirmed to observers that Saul had been divinely chosen and transformed. The fact that Saul—a young man who had been unknown—suddenly prophesied was so surprising that people asked, 'Is Saul among the prophets?' This event showed that kingship in Israel came with God's enabling power, not just human selection.
Why did some of the Israelites despise Saul even after he was presented as king?+
Some people questioned whether Saul could save Israel and doubted his ability as a leader, so they despised him and brought him no gifts. This skepticism likely stemmed from Saul's humble background—he was a young man from a small clan—and perhaps from the people's general reluctance about having a human king. This initial opposition was overcome later when Saul proved himself militarily in battle, particularly against the Ammonites in 1 Samuel 11.