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TURNING A BLIND EYE (9)

by Robert Dawson

Scripture: 1 Samuel 15
This content is part of a series.


Turning a Blind Eye (9)
Series: 1 Samuel
Robert Dawson
1 Samuel 15


Most of us have heard the phrase ''to turn a blind eye.'' It means to deliberately ignore something, whether it is orders to be followed, something bad going on or overlooking someone's mistake. While most of us know the phrase few of us probably know its origin.

Its origin is attributed to an incident ''in the life of British Admiral Horatio Nelson who had been blinded in one eye early in his naval career. Nelson, who was known to be aggressive and throw caution to the wind, served under a rather cautious Admiral, Admiral Sir Hyde Parker, who was in command of all the British naval forces.

During the Battle of Copenhagen in 1801 the cautious Admiral Sir Hyde Parker sent a signal to Nelson's forces ordering them to discontinue the advance and pull back. At that time, Naval orders were transmitted through a system of signal flags. When this order was brought Nelson's attention, he lifted his telescope up to his blind eye, saying, ''I have a right to be blind sometimes. I really do not see the signal,'' and most of his forces continued to press home the attack. (Wikipedia)

Today we will look at someone who willfully turned a blind eye to the Lord's commands and to their own sin. We will also encounter someone who cannot and will not turn a blind eye to sin but is bound by the very nature of His character to punish sin.

In 1 Samuel 15, we find Saul's life once again spiraling downward. Despite his failures and disregard for God, Saul is still king in Israel. God has an assignment for Saul, so He sends the trusted old prophet Samuel to deliver it.

1 Samuel 15.1 says, ''Then Samuel said to Saul, ''The Lord sent me to anoint you as king over His people, over Israel; now therefore, listen to the words of the Lord.'' That opening statement serves a purpose. Its intent is to remind Saul that he was not like every other king.

- His position and kingship were unique.

- Saul, u ...

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