The Philistines come to attack Israel and David and his men are with the Philistines (v1-2). Saul is frightened and God will not answer him (v3-6).

Even though he had outlawed mediums Saul in his desperation turns to one in disguise to seek guidance from Samuel who had died (v7-11).

Mediums cannot communicate with the dead as the dead go to heaven or hell and they can’t leave there (see Luke 16 v26). People who consult mediums are deceived as through evil spirits they can at tell otherwise unknown facts.

This incident though seems different; the medium is terrified as God appears to enable Samuel to communicate (v12-14). What happens here was exceptional and not the normal deceptive practice of mediums.

Samuel reminds Saul of the frightening news that God has become his enemy (v16) and judgment is coming (v17-19).

We see due to sin what a terribly frightened and pathetic person Saul has become (v20-21). He gets some temporary help in regards to food (v22-25) but he is without God and without hope in this world. Let us fear God and fear what sin can do!