Saul was the king chosen by Yahweh, knowing he would ultimately be replaced before his death. On the other hand, David was chosen to succeed Saul, with his bloodline destined to rule for eternity. Yahweh removed Saul’s lineage from the kingship due to Saul’s transgressions—assuming an authority reserved for Samuel, rebellion, and consorting with familiar spirits, akin to practicing witchcraft against Yahweh.

David, far from perfect, displayed the qualities of a true king. Despite being a man of blood, which barred him from building the true tabernacle (a task left to his son Solomon), and orchestrating Uriah’s death to claim Bathsheba, Yahweh declared David a man after His own heart. Both Saul and David legitimized Israel as a nation through warfare, relying on Yahweh’s supernatural intervention. However, while both had sins of the flesh, Saul’s sins of the spirit led to his downfall.

Sins of the flesh are punishable, but even in cases of death, the soul can be saved. Sins against the spirit, as Saul’s were, risk complete removal from Yahweh’s kingdom. To understand why Yahweh removed Saul and his lineage from the throne, let’s compare the specific sins of each king.

In 1 Samuel 13:12-14, Saul disobeys Yahweh’s command, offering a burnt offering in Samuel’s absence. Samuel rebukes him, saying, “You have done foolishly. You have not kept the commandment of the LORD your God.” Consequently, Saul’s kingdom would not continue, and Yahweh sought a man after His own heart, appointing David as leader.

In contrast, 2 Samuel 12:13-14 records David’s repentance after his sin with Bathsheba. Nathan tells David, “The LORD has put away your sin; you shall not die.” However, the child born from this sin would die. David’s quick repentance and acceptance of Yahweh’s judgment, despite severe personal losses, highlight his righteousness compared to Saul’s continued disobedience.

Saul’s excuses and blame-shifting, compounded by public disobedience, led to his consultation with the witch of Endor, sealing his and his lineage’s fate. David, despite severe punishment, repented sincerely, accepting Yahweh’s judgments as righteous. His reign, although tumultuous, was marked by genuine repentance and submission to Yahweh’s will.

This contrast extends to the modern church. Apostles and pastors often become political, clinging to their positions through deceit and self-preservation rather than seeking Yahweh’s will. They misuse scripture to insulate themselves, avoiding repentance and perpetuating their sin. True ministry, however, requires a heart of repentance like David’s, trusting Yahweh’s righteous judgment.

Our faith, unlike any other, exposes the sins of our leaders. Seeking a perfect pastor only leads to disappointment. Instead, we should evaluate whether our leaders are like Saul—politicians seeking power—or like David—repentant and seeking to build Yahweh’s kingdom. A king seeks power at all costs; a shepherd king prepares the next generation to take their place.

Choose wisely who you align with and serve under. Recognize that leaders are flawed, but assess whether they hide their sins or openly repent. Yahweh calls deeply flawed individuals for significant tasks—Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, and David all had serious flaws but were used for great things.

Decide whether your leader is a politician king or a shepherd king.

Shalom, covenant keepers and children of Israel.