1 Chronicles 10:13
So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to enquire of it;
1 Chronicles 10:13 (KJV)
Context
This verse is the Chronicler’s summary of why King Saul died. It names two specific sins: Saul did not keep the word of the Lord, and he asked counsel from a woman with a familiar spirit. The writer looks back over Saul’s life and shows that his death was not an accident but a judgment from God.
Saul’s disobedience was not a single mistake. Earlier, he offered a burnt offering without waiting for the prophet Samuel, who alone was appointed to do this (1 Samuel 13:8-14). That act showed distrust in God’s timing and disregard for clear instruction. Later, God commanded Saul to destroy the Amalekites completely, but Saul spared King Agag and the best livestock (1 Samuel 15:1-3). These repeated failures revealed a heart that would not fully submit to God’s authority.
Meaning
The phrase “transgression against the Lord” means a deliberate breaking of God’s command. Saul knew what God required, yet he chose his own way. The second sin, consulting a medium, was strictly forbidden in the law (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Saul went to the witch of Endor to seek guidance from the dead (1 Samuel 28). This was not a small error; it was a direct rejection of God as the only true source of wisdom.
The verse teaches that God’s word is authoritative. Saul “kept not” the word of the Lord, meaning he did not guard it or obey it. His death was the consequence of persistent unfaithfulness. The Chronicler does not excuse Saul or soften the judgment. He presents the facts plainly so that readers will understand the seriousness of rebellion.
Biblical connections
The New Testament reinforces this principle. In Acts 16:16-18, Paul casts out a spirit of divination from a slave girl, showing that such practices remain opposed to God’s will. The connection is direct: God’s people must never seek guidance from forbidden sources, whether in the Old Testament or the New.
Application
This verse calls us to examine our own obedience. Do we treat God’s commands as optional when they are inconvenient? Do we turn to ungodly sources for direction when we feel desperate? Saul’s example warns us that partial obedience is still disobedience. God expects complete loyalty and trust.
We must also be careful about where we seek counsel. Some people today consult horoscopes, mediums, or other occult practices, just as Saul did. Others rely only on their own reasoning. This verse reminds us to go first to God through prayer and His word, and to seek wisdom from those who honor Him.
Reflection
Saul’s life is a sober reminder that God holds leaders and all believers accountable for their actions. His downfall did not happen suddenly; it grew from small compromises that became habits of disobedience. Yet the gospel offers hope. Where Saul failed, Christ succeeded in perfect obedience, and through Him we can receive forgiveness and the Holy Spirit’s help to follow God faithfully.
