Collective Church Podcast

Guest Preacher, Pastor Mike Doyle, kicks off our Draw Near series, in helping us seek a wholehearted pursuit of revival.

In 1 Samuel 16, God rejects Saul and secretly anoints David, the overlooked shepherd boy, as Israel’s next king. This chapter shows how God chooses differently than man, looking not at outward appearance but at the heart, and begins weaving David into Saul’s story through the surprising power of Spirit-filled music.

In 1 Samuel 15:16–35, Samuel confronts Saul with the truth: obedience matters more than sacrifice, and Saul’s excuses can’t cover his rebellion. It’s the tragic turning point where God rejects Saul as king, showing us the cost of disobedience and the ache of a leader who will not submit.

1 Samuel 15:1–15 tells the story of Saul’s partial obedience to God’s command against the Amalekites—sparing Agag and the best of the livestock while claiming to obey. It’s a sobering reminder that partial obedience is still disobedience, and that God desires our hearts more than our excuses.

1 Samuel 14:24-52 In this episode, we dive into 1 Samuel 14:24–52, where Saul’s rash oath drains his army’s strength and exposes the emptiness of leadership driven by pride instead of trust. Jonathan’s quiet faith and Israel’s eventual deliverance stand in stark contrast, reminding us that God’s salvation comes not through human foolishness but through His own power and wisdom.

1 Samuel 14:1-23 Jonathan steps out in bold, humble faith while Saul sits paralyzed, and God turns Jonathan’s risky ‘perhaps’ into a stunning victory that reminds us real faith moves even without guarantees.

1 Samuel 13 finds Saul facing the first test of his anointed vocation as king over Israel, raising the question: What kind of posture from us will God use to accomplish His purposes?

1 Samuel 12:13-25 We finish Samuel's final speech to the nation of Israel. This is a defining moment on the hinge of biblical history.

Pastor Ryan Smith, preparing to plant Alabaster Church in Asheville, shares insights from 1 Samuel. He discusses the church as a 'school of prophets,' emphasizing the importance of community in discerning God's voice today. Ryan reflects on Samuel’s leadership transition to Saul, highlighting the values of self-examination and accountability. He stresses integrity as essential for prophets, linking authenticity in faith to meaningful influence. The conversation also explores the unique role of prophets in engaging the community and shaping spiritual understanding.

In this episode, we explore 1 Samuel 11, where Saul rallies a nation to rescue Jabesh-gilead, revealing how God often confirms His calling on our lives through moments of Spirit-empowered fury.