Now then, obey their voice; only you shall solemnly warn them and show them the ways of the king who shall reign over them.”
We have here the starting of a matter perfectly new and surprising, which was the setting up of kingly government in Israel. Perhaps the thing had been often talked of among them by those that were given to change and affected that which looked great. But we do not find that it was ever till now publicly proposed and debated.
Commenting on 1 Samuel 8:4-22
Now therefore hearken unto their voice,.... And appoint them a king as they desire: howbeit, yet protest solemnly unto them; not against the thing itself, which was permitted, but against the evil of their request, as to the unseasonable time, ill manner, and unjustifiable reason, in and for which it was made; the Lord would have Samuel lay before them their evil in requesting it...
Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet protest solemnly unto them, and shew them the manner of the king that shall reign over them. (e) To prove if they will forsake their wicked purpose.