From Theocracy to Monarchy Thru the Bible: 1 Samuel 8-12 This section of scripture is among the most sad. Israel has had a history of rebellion against God. 1st at the mountain in the wilderness, many times in their wanderings by their rejection of God's commands and His appointed leaders, in the Promised Land by failing to obey and trust by taking all God was giving them, idolatry and rejection of Godly leadership and now, they not only reject Samuel's two sons (who were not godly) but in their demand to have a king rule over them instead of God. As we continue in this book we will see both Israel, it's 1st king Saul and even to some degree even Samuel...all struggle with appearance, acceptance and making life all about themselves.