1 Samuel 20:28

Jonathan answered, "David urgently requested my permission to go to Bethlehem,

Study Bible

Jonathan answered
The name "Jonathan" means "Yahweh has given" in Hebrew, reflecting his role as a God-given friend and ally to David. Jonathan's response here is significant as it demonstrates his loyalty to David over his own father, King Saul. In the context of ancient Israel, familial loyalty was paramount, yet Jonathan's actions underscore a higher allegiance to God's anointed, David. This highlights the biblical principle of prioritizing divine relationships over earthly ones.

David urgently requested
The Hebrew root for "requested" (שָׁאַל, sha'al) implies a strong, earnest plea. David's urgency reflects the dire circumstances he faced, being pursued by Saul. This urgency is not just a matter of personal safety but also a reflection of the spiritual warfare at play. David, as God's chosen king, is under threat, and his request underscores the need for divine intervention and protection. This phrase reminds believers of the importance of earnest prayer and seeking God's guidance in times of distress.

my permission
The concept of "permission" here indicates the social and hierarchical structures in place. Jonathan, as the king's son, held a position of authority, and David's request for permission shows respect for these structures. It also highlights the theme of submission to authority, a recurring biblical principle. However, Jonathan's willingness to grant this permission, even against his father's wishes, illustrates the biblical tension between obeying earthly authority and following God's will.

to go to Bethlehem
Bethlehem, meaning "house of bread" in Hebrew, is significant as David's hometown and later as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. This reference to Bethlehem is not just geographical but also theological, pointing to God's providential plan throughout history. David's return to Bethlehem symbolizes a return to his roots and a place of safety. For Christians, Bethlehem holds messianic significance, reminding us of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises through Christ. This phrase encourages believers to trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his loyalty and integrity, Jonathan plays a crucial role in protecting David from Saul's wrath.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. At this point in the account, David is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who becomes increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, seeing him as a threat to his reign.

4. Bethlehem
The hometown of David, located in the territory of Judah. It is significant as the birthplace of David and later, Jesus Christ.

5. The New Moon Festival
A religious observance in ancient Israel, marking the beginning of a new month. It was a time for sacrifices and communal meals, during which David's absence is noted.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Friendship
Jonathan's actions demonstrate the importance of loyalty and selfless friendship. True friends support and protect each other, even at personal risk.

Courage in Adversity
David's situation teaches us about courage and reliance on God when facing unjust persecution. Trusting in God's plan is crucial, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Role of Providence
God's providence is evident in the unfolding events. Despite Saul's intentions, God's plan for David's future kingship remains unthwarted, reminding us of God's sovereignty.

The Importance of Honesty
Jonathan's honest communication with Saul, despite the potential consequences, underscores the value of truthfulness in our relationships.

Family and Faith
The tension between Jonathan's loyalty to David and his relationship with Saul highlights the challenges of balancing family obligations with faithfulness to God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us to evaluate our own friendships and commitments? What qualities make a friendship godly and enduring?

2. In what ways can we find courage and strength in God when facing opposition or persecution, as David did?

3. How does the account of David and Jonathan illustrate the concept of divine providence, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jonathan's honesty and integrity, especially when dealing with difficult family dynamics or authority figures?

5. How does the significance of Bethlehem in David's account foreshadow its importance in the New Testament, and what does this teach us about God's unfolding plan of redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18-19
These chapters provide context for Saul's growing animosity towards David and Jonathan's covenant with David, highlighting the depth of their friendship and Jonathan's commitment to David's safety.

Psalm 59
Traditionally attributed to David during his time of fleeing from Saul, this psalm reflects David's trust in God's deliverance amidst persecution.

Matthew 2:1-6
Bethlehem is mentioned as the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah, connecting David's lineage to Jesus Christ.