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Cis

Who was Cis?

Cis (also spelled Kish in the Old Testament, Greek: Κίς, Kis) is mentioned briefly in Acts 13:21 as the father of Saul, the first king of Israel. Though the reference in Acts is concise, it links back to a more detailed account in the Old Testament, where Cis is known as Kish, a Benjamite and a man of standing in the tribe of Benjamin. The Hebrew name קִישׁ (Qish) means “bow,” “snare,” or “trap.”

In Acts 13:21, the Apostle Paul recounts Israel’s history before introducing Jesus as the promised Savior. He says:

“Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years.” (NIV)

This reference serves not just as historical background, but as a theological bridge showing the sovereignty of God over Israel‘s leadership and the unfolding plan of redemption that culminates in Christ.

Biblical References and Cross-References

Cross-references that provide greater insight into Cis/Kish and his family line:

Summary of What Happened

Cis, or Kish, is best known as the father of King Saul, Israel’s first monarch. According to 1 Samuel 9:1, Kish was “a man of standing,” indicating wealth, respectability, and prominence in his tribe. His son Saul was described as tall and impressive, and God chose him to rule over His people in response to their demand for a king.

In Acts 13, the Apostle Paul references Cis in the course of preaching in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch. Paul reminds his Jewish audience that after the period of the judges, God gave Israel a king—Saul, son of Cis. But Paul quickly moves on to David, the man “after God’s own heart,” and from there to Jesus, the Savior God had promised.

Meaning for Today’s Christians

The mention of Cis may seem incidental, but it serves as a vital link in the redemptive storyline. Cis represents a pivotal turning point in Israel’s history—the transition from the judges to the monarchy. This period was marked by Israel’s desire to be like other nations, requesting a king to rule over them (1 Samuel 8:5). Though their request was born out of a rejection of God’s direct rule, God allowed it and appointed Saul, son of Cis.

For believers today, this reminds us of:

  • God’s sovereignty even when His people make misguided requests.

  • The imperfection of human rulers and the need for a perfect King—Jesus.

  • The patience and long-suffering of God, who works through flawed people and institutions to accomplish His divine purposes.

How Cis Points to Jesus and the Gospel

Though Cis himself does not appear as a major figure, his son Saul serves as a cautionary tale. Saul started with promise but ended in disobedience, showing that even a king chosen by God can fail without a heart surrendered to Him. This contrast sets the stage for David, whose line would eventually lead to Jesus Christ, the eternal King.

In Acts 13, Paul masterfully uses this progression:

This arc demonstrates the insufficiency of human leadership and the necessity of divine intervention in the form of Jesus, who rules not just over Israel but over all creation.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. God’s Sovereignty

God used even the imperfect desires of His people (wanting a king) to unfold His greater redemptive plan.

2. Leadership and Obedience

Kish‘s son Saul was chosen but failed due to disobedience. God values leaders who follow His heart over mere appearances.

3. Fulfillment in Christ

Even genealogical and historical details serve to show that all of Scripture points forward to the Messiah.

4. God Uses the Ordinary

Cis is not a central figure, yet his role is vital. God often uses people who seem minor to fulfill His purposes.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the story of Saul, son of Cis, remind us of the danger of judging by appearances rather than character?

  2. What can we learn from Israel’s request for a king, and God’s response through Saul and David?

  3. How does God’s use of people like Cis and Saul point to His sovereign control over history?

  4. In what ways does Jesus fulfill what Saul, the son of Cis, could not?

  5. Are there areas in your life where you’ve asked for something that wasn’t God‘s best? How has He still worked through it for His glory?

Though Cis is mentioned only in passing, his name anchors a significant part of biblical history that ultimately magnifies Jesus Christ as the true King.

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