A Contrast in Leadership

Vision - Why do parents do what they do with their kids? Why do we have family traditions for holidays?

Map

Son of the King

You have a choice in who to follow. It’s a matter of discipleship.

Saul's Fear vs Jonathan's Faith

the decline of the people - 3000 to 600

Saul’s seeking of favor out of fear rather than obedience

The raiders leaving

The technological difference

Nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few

God caused a panic

Saul's Vengeance vs Jonathan's Care

Seeking outward signs when you need act

Hard-pressed

Saul’s oath about his vengeance - “Cursed”

Jonathan’s honey

Jonathan’s care of the land

The people’s sin caused by Saul’s oath

Saul’s desire for completing the victory

The wait from God

The condemnation of Jonathan

The redemption of Jonathan

Isaiah 53:7 ESV

7 He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth.

Saul's Victories vs Jonathan's Surrender

outward vs inward victory

Waiting on the cross

Your king went to his trial alone. He also waited on the cross, saying not my will but yours be done.

The king is going to return.

The Battle of Michmash

Hebrews 12:1–6 ESV

1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. 4 In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

Which leader do you choose to emulate? Fearful, direction focused (looking for a guarantee), vengeful or Faith, direction focused (looking for how to obey), care-driven

Take up your cross and follow Jesus.