Obey people’s voice and perish

It is easier to please people than God. Sadly, many choose to ignore God’s commandments and please people. Some please people out of fear; others to become popular or to receive appreciation and acclamation. Attracted by wealth or inheritance, some please people, including parents and relatives, instead of God. King Saul feared people and obeyed their voice. (I Samuel 15:24)

Historical context God commanded the Nation of Israel to devote the Amalekites to destruction. All of them should be destroyed as God’s judgment on them for their hostility, lack of morality, and ethics. Nevertheless, Saul and his army spared the Amalekite King Agag, and the best of the sheep and cattle. Confronted by Samuel, Saul gave the excuse that he was afraid of his own men, as they wanted the best of the flock and cattle for offering sacrifice.

Fear of people The pressure of people, influence of coterie, and public opinion shaped the decision of Saul. Instead of having reverence for God, he feared people. Also, he blamed people instead of taking responsibility for his decision. He forgot that he was accountable to God, not to people.

Rejected Saul rejected God’s authority; hence, he was rejected as the King of Israel by God. Instead of repenting of his character flaw, he wanted respect from people. He urged Samuel to stay with him for social standing, authority, and reputation in the public perception. (I Samuel 15:30) Even after being rejected as king, he still wanted to be popular with people and not please God.

Pontius Pilate Another example was Pontius Pilate, who wanted to please the Jewish religious leaders and instigated the mob that was braying for the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Luke 23:23) He was afraid of the anger of the Roman Emperor Tiberius, who could dismiss him from his position as governor. By washing his hands, he thought he could be innocent of the sordid deed of the death sentence by crucifixion of the Lord Jesus Christ.