Some people have zeal, but do not obey, and even overdo things that should not be done. King Saul is one such example. God commanded to execute God’s judgment on the Amalekites, which he did partially. (I Samuel 15) God did not command to attack the Gibeonites as they were protected by an oath, but he destroyed them. (II Samuel 21) Misguided zeal and half-hearted obedience or obedience of convenience are dangerous. No wonder Saul lost his kingship.
Sacred covenant and Misguided Zeal: The Gibeonites used trickery to escape the attack and destruction of Israel over them. Joshua made a covenant with the Gibeonites to spare their lives, and it was honoured for about 400 years. (Joshua 9:15) With carnal zeal, or to impress the Nation, Saul tried to exterminate them, breaking the treaty made by Joshua. The shedding of innocent blood resulted in famine in Israel during the reign of David. (II Samuel 21:1) David had to do the work of restoration, as a remnant of the Gibeonites demanded the execution of seven sons of Saul.
Sacred commandment and disobedience: God sent King Saul on a mission to destroy the Amalekites, who were against God, His Law, and His people. Saul partially obeyed the command by attacking them, but sparing King Agag, and the best of the cattle. When Samuel confronted him, he gave an excuse, stating the animals were spared for sacrifice as people demanded.
Failure of Saul: King Saul attacked the Gibeonites, who were under God’s protection via a treaty Joshua made with them. It was a breach of covenant justice. God commanded to utterly destroy the Amalekites, but he spares the king and the cattle. He failed to execute God’s divine judgment. Sadly, he did not show mercy to God’s protected people but showed mercy to those who deserved judgment.
Zeal without knowledge: Paul warns believers regarding zeal without knowledge. (Romans 10:2) Those who are driven by passion or zeal without wisdom will miss the mark, that is, sin. (Proverbs 19:2) As the King, Saul should know the history of Israel, but did not.
Is my zeal guided by the wisdom of the Word of God?