◄ 1 Samuel 20:27 ►
But on the day after the New Moon, the second day, David's place was still empty, and Saul asked his son Jonathan, "Why hasn't the son of Jesse come to the meal either yesterday or today?" Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 20:27? 2. Why did Saul question Jonathan about David's absence in 1 Samuel 20:27? 3. How does Jonathan's response reflect his loyalty to David and God? 4. What does Saul's reaction reveal about his character and spiritual state? 5. How can we demonstrate loyalty to God's anointed in our daily lives? 6. What other biblical examples show loyalty amidst adversity, like Jonathan's in 1 Samuel 20? 7. Why did Saul question Jonathan about David's absence in 1 Samuel 20:27? 8. What does Saul's reaction reveal about his character in 1 Samuel 20:27? 9. How does 1 Samuel 20:27 illustrate the tension between Saul and David? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 20? 11. What does 'How the mighty have fallen' mean? 12. Are there any historical or archaeological findings that confirm or challenge the events and relationships mentioned in 1 Samuel 18? 13. How do we reconcile the timing of the New Moon feast in 1 Samuel 20:5 with other Old Testament passages referencing similar observances? 14. Why does Saul's sudden rage toward Jonathan in 1 Samuel 20:30-33 seem disproportionate and historically uncontextualized? Discussion Questions 1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us in our own friendships and relationships today? 2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in the midst of adversity, as seen in David's situation? 3. How can we apply the principle of discernment in our daily interactions and decisions? 4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faithfulness in our relationships, following the example of Jonathan and David? 5. How does understanding the cultural and religious significance of the New Moon Festival enhance our comprehension of this passage? 1 Samuel 20 Bible Study Questions 1. How does David communicate his fear and concern to Jonathan at the beginning of the chapter? How can this apply to our communication within friendships today? 2. In what ways does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge societal expectations? What can we learn from his loyalty to a friend over his loyalty to his family? 3. How do Jonathan and David use the New Moon feast to understand Saul's intentions? What does this suggest about their strategic thinking and faith in God? 4. How does the covenant between Jonathan and David reflect their faith and commitment to each other? How can we apply this in modern relationships? 5. Discuss the role of trust in David and Jonathan's relationship. How did it influence their actions? 6. Explore the impact of Saul's anger on his relationships, particularly with his son Jonathan. 7. How does Saul’s reaction to David’s absence confirm his ill intentions towards him? What does this teach us about interpreting actions of others? 8. How does the parting of Jonathan and David reflect the sorrow and pain of their situation? How can we handle such emotional moments in our lives? 9. How is the concept of covenant significant in this chapter? How does it tie into the broader theme of covenants in the Bible? 10. Explore the theme of sacrifice in this chapter. What sacrifices are made and why? 11. Why does David trust Jonathan, despite knowing that he is Saul's son? What does this teach us about trust? 12. How does 1 Samuel 20 challenge the traditional expectations of loyalty to one's family versus friends? 13. Discuss the theme of betrayal in this chapter. How does it manifest and what are the consequences? 14. What can we learn from David's resilience and faith during this difficult period in his life? 15. How does Jonathan balance his loyalty towards his father and his friendship with David? How can we apply this in situations where we have conflicting loyalties? 16. How do David and Jonathan's actions demonstrate their faith in God during this trial? 17. Discuss the symbolic meaning of Saul's thrown spear. What does it represent? 18. How can David and Jonathan's friendship serve as an example for us in present day living? 19. What does the chapter teach about dealing with people who have ill intentions against us? 20. How can the narrative of David, Jonathan, and Saul in 1 Samuel 20 be used as a guide for dealing with conflicts and challenges in our own relationships? Links 1 Samuel 20:27 NIV 1 Samuel 20:27 NLT 1 Samuel 20:27 ESV 1 Samuel 20:27 NASB 1 Samuel 20:27 KJV 1 Samuel 20:27 Commentaries Bible Hub