1 – 13:15 – In 1 Samuel 10:7-8, Samuel tells Saul to attack the Philistines then go down to Gilgal and wait for him to give further directions. A year later, Jonathan attacks and Saul goes to Gilgal. Impatient, Saul offers the sacrifice himself. Does he get direction from Samuel?

2 – Why do the Philistines send out raiding parties? Why doesn't Saul try to stop them?

3 – How does the blacksmith situation keep Israel in subjection to the Philistines?

4 – 13:23 – How is the Philistine detachment at Michmash resemble the Spartans at Thermopylae?

5 – 14:1-15 – Why does Jonathan, on his own, decide to attack the Philistines? What can he hope to accomplish? Why? What is King Saul doing?

6 – Jonathan is motivated by faith. Saul is motivated by fear. What motivates the armor bearer? What does he say? How does this strengthen and encourage Jonathan? What does Jonathan know about God's will and purpose for Israel? What historical examples is he aware of? What does he conclude in verse 6? Is Jonathan convinced of success? ( See Dan 3:18)

7 – What reason do we have to risk big things for God? What results can we expect? Why risk it?