Saul was rejected as king. Not salvation
- 1 Samuel 26:20-24: During a confrontation with David, Saul acknowledges his wrongdoings and seeks forgiveness from God. He states, "Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and return with me, that I may worship the Lord" (v. 21).
- Acts 13:22: In this passage, Luke recounts Saul's reign as king, followed by the introduction of David as God's chosen ruler. Verse 22 reads, "After removing Saul, he made David their king." However, this verse does not imply that Saul ceased following God during his tenure as king. Instead, it indicates that God chose another leader to replace Saul.
- Psalms 51:10-12: Written by David, this psalm contains a prayer for forgiveness and restoration. Verses 10-12 read, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, And do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, And sustain me with a willing spirit." These verses demonstrate Saul's desire to remain in a personal relationship with God.