In 1 Samuel 8 the people were told that their desire for a king was a rejection of the Lord (1 Samuel 8:6–10). The same accusation is repeated, most likely because there has not yet been any recognition of sin or repentance from the people of Israel.1 Additionally, the words of Samuel suggest that the Lord’s act of providing a king is an act of discipline/judgment. The instruction to present themselves for the selection of a king is inserted at the very point where one would normally expect an announcement of judgment (see Hosea 13:9–11).2 Even though the Lord displays mercy in giving them a king that is better than they deserve, there is still a measure of discipline.3
19 Et aujourd'hui, vous rejetez votre Dieu, qui vous a délivrés de tous vos maux et de toutes vos souffrances, et vous lui dites: Etablis un roi sur nous! Présentez-vous maintenant devant l'Eternel, selon vos tribus et selon vos milliers.