Sermon Central
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"I Played The Fool, " Saul's Epitaph Series
Contributed by Doug Johnston on Oct 19, 2001 (message contributor)
Summary: Instead of being like King Saul, whose life ended with disappointment, we can be like King David, whose life was characterized by hope, even when death was near.
J Sidlow Baxter’s book, Mark These Men, tells us he thinks a man plays the fool when he:
Neglects his godly friends;
Goes on enterprises for God before God sends him;
Disobeys God;
Tries to cover disobedience with religious sounding excuses;
Allows jealousy or hatred to master him;
Knowingly fights against God;
Turns from God...
Just as King Saul did (1 Samuel 26:21).
He began well, but he died:
With an evil spirit from God
Knowing he was being replaced by God
With many in his family
In a final defeat at the hands of his enemies
King Saul’s death contrasts with Christ’s death for us; Saul’s death was one of resignation and defeat for those who watched, Christ’s death brought life and hope to all who would listen
We must prepare for life by preparing to face death.
Psalm 23: David’s Song of Peace
God Satisfies (1)
He treats us like guests in His home
God Calms (2)
He helps us find life’s oases
God Refreshes (3)
He takes us on “vacation”
God Comforts (4)
He chases evil away and clears our path
God Uplifts (5)
He honors and helps us
God Loves (6)
He chases after us with goodness and mercy
Why all this talk of death?
Our death is an inescapable reality