◄ 1 Samuel 20:18 ►
Then Jonathan said to David, "Tomorrow is the New Moon, and you will be missed if your seat is empty. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 20:18? 2. How does 1 Samuel 20:18 illustrate the importance of godly friendships in trials? 3. What role does faith play in Jonathan's plan in 1 Samuel 20:18? 4. How can we apply Jonathan's loyalty to our own friendships today? 5. What scriptural connections exist between Jonathan's actions and Jesus' teachings on friendship? 6. How does 1 Samuel 20:18 encourage us to trust God's timing in adversity? 7. What is the significance of the New Moon festival in 1 Samuel 20:18? 8. How does 1 Samuel 20:18 reflect the relationship between David and Jonathan? 9. Why is David's absence at the New Moon feast important in 1 Samuel 20:18? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 1 Samuel 20? 11. Are there any historical or archaeological findings that confirm or challenge the events and relationships mentioned in 1 Samuel 18? 12. 1 Samuel 18:5-7: Did the women's song about David killing 'ten thousands' reflect historical reality or an exaggeration? 13. In 2 Samuel 9:3, how do we reconcile David's swift willingness to help Saul's descendant with the longstanding hostilities described elsewhere in 1 and 2 Samuel? 14. How does 1 Samuel 19 reconcile with accounts in other sections of the Bible where David is portrayed as protected by divine power rather than subterfuge? Discussion Questions 1. How does the friendship between Jonathan and David challenge our understanding of loyalty and sacrifice in our own relationships? 2. In what ways can we incorporate regular spiritual observances, like the New Moon festival, into our modern lives to enhance our worship and community? 3. What are some practical ways we can show courage and integrity in our relationships, even when it might cost us personally? 4. How can we recognize and trust in God's providence in our lives, especially when facing adversity or uncertainty? 5. Reflecting on Saul's jealousy and disobedience, what steps can we take to guard our hearts against similar destructive emotions and actions? 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 20:18 NIV 1 Samuel 20:18 NLT 1 Samuel 20:18 ESV 1 Samuel 20:18 NASB 1 Samuel 20:18 KJV 1 Samuel 20:18 Commentaries Bible Hub