1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 8:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Why was Samuel troubled when the people requested a king? This request went against God's divine order. The Lord Almighty was intended to be both God and King to them, with the Prophet serving as His primary minister, akin to a lieutenant or leader of the community. God made this evident when He instructed Samuel, “Hear the voice of the people, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them, in accordance with all their deeds, which they have performed against Me: from the day I brought them up from Egypt until this day,” etc.

Therefore, you are called to be obedient to your bishop and refrain from opposing him in any matter. To go against such an individual is a serious matter. A person may think they are misleading this visible leader, but in reality, they are attempting to deceive the unseen One, who cannot be deceived. This action is not merely directed towards a human being, but pertains to the Lord. Indeed, God spoke to Samuel, saying, "They have not deceived you, but Me."

In the Book of Kings, when the priest Samuel was cast aside by the Israelites due to his old age, the Lord expressed His fury, declaring: They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them. In retribution for this, He appointed King Saul, who inflicted severe hardships upon them, oppressing the haughty nation with various wrongs and punishments. This exemplifies God's response to the arrogance that scorns His servant.