The execution of Agag

In today’s passage, Samuel carries out the command of utter destruction that Saul had neglected. It was done in the form of executing King Agag of the Amalekites. (1) Agag was brought before Samuel. There are textual variations, describing how he was brought forth. NASB2020 records that “Agag came to him cheerfully,” while other translations such as NIV says that he came in “chains.” NKJV says that he came “cautiously.” Judging from the context, the translation “cheerfully” seems most accurate. The battle had ended, and there were no signs that Saul intended to carry out any further executions. Agag likely thought his life was spared for now and came cheerfully. (2) However, Samuel did not overlook Agag’s sins. Agag had taken children away from many Jewish women. Now, Agag’s mother was to lose her child. (3) Samuel cut Agag to pieces. With this, the Lord’s command to utterly destroy the Amalekites was fulfilled. Agag had a wishful thinking, but in the end, he reaped what he had sown. This aligns with what is written in Galatians 6:7. “Do not be deceived, God cannot be mocked; for whatever a person sows, this he will also reap.”

Samuel’s grief

Afterward, Samuel returned to Ramah, and Saul went back to Gibeah. This was the last time they saw each other. However, just because Samuel did not see Saul again, it does not mean that he no longer cared for him. Samuel mourned for Saul day and night. Thus, Saul’s reign effectively came to an end. Although Saul started well, his reign ended in failure. God does not change His mind or regret. It was Saul’s change in attitude towards God that led God to alter the plan He had entrusted to Saul. Let’s learn from Saul’s mistake and let’s pray that may all that God has planned for us be fulfilled.