The Hidden Danger of Wanting More Than God
Big Idea: When God isn’t enough for you, the consequence may be that you get what you wish for.
1 Samuel 8:1-8
What does rejection of God look like?
Rejection of God:
“God, I don’t need you or want you.”
Rejection of God:
“God, you are not enough for me. I need *this* also.”
1 Samuel 8:9
Everything in life that you decide you need will take from you more than it will give.
1 Samuel 8:10-20
Why do we think we need things other than God?
- Comparison and jealousy
- Instability
- Fear
1 Samuel 8:21-22
Jesus is the only king who gives more than he takes.
Matthew 11:28-30
Philippians 2:6-11
Message Questions
We’re in a year-long journey through the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, tracing the rise, reign, and legacy of Israel’s most famous king. We’ll see the story of how God works through real people with real flaws to accomplish his purposes. This week we are in 1 Samuel 8, and the big idea is: When God isn’t enough for you, the consequence may be that you get what you wish for.
Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do.
- Have someone read 1 Samuel 8:1–8. What reasons do the Israelites give for wanting a king, and what does God say about their request? Which part of this passage stands out to you most?
- Have someone read 1 Samuel 8:9–18. What warnings does Samuel give about what a king will do, and how do you see those warnings reflected in our own culture today?
- Have someone read 1 Samuel 8:19–22. Why do the people insist on having a king even after Samuel’s warnings? How does this reveal what they really believe about God?
- What would it look like to grow in trusting God as your true king instead of turning to other things for security or identity?
- How could you go encourage someone this week to see that Jesus is the only king who gives more than he takes?
