The answer is: Samuel

1 Samuel 15:32-33 - Samuel completed the job that Saul failed to do

In 1 Samuel 15, an intense drama unfolds that illustrates not just the kingly failures but also prophetic authority. King Saul is ordered by God to completely eliminate the Amalekites, including their king, Agag. However, Saul falters; while he saves Agag and the best livestock to offer as sacrifices, God’s command was clear—no survivors. This misstep leads to his rejection as king.

Enter Samuel, the prophet. When Saul doesn’t follow through, God puts the onus back on Samuel. Playing the role of divine executioner, he decisively completes Saul's mission. This moment inherently speaks volumes about both leadership and accountability. Samuel's brutal act of slaughtering Agag shows that prophetic authority could override kingly decisions, pointing to the belief that divine will ultimately must prevail over human flaws.

Fun fact: The name “Agag” could mean “I will prevail,” which, in a sense, is tragically ironic since he ultimately met his fate at Samuel’s hand. This narrative also echoes throughout biblical history; generations later, Agagites, like Haman from the book of Esther, become direct descendants of the ancient conflict initiated here, illustrating how unresolved issues can ripple across time.

Such stories remind us of the foundational understanding that leadership comes with not just power but immense responsibility. It challenges leaders to abide faithfully by the ethical guidelines set forth, echoing even in today's discussions about accountability in positions of authority!