1 Samuel 19:1

Then Saul ordered his son Jonathan and all his servants to kill David. But Jonathan delighted greatly in David,

Study Bible

Now Saul
The phrase "Now Saul" introduces a pivotal moment in the narrative of 1 Samuel. Saul, the first king of Israel, was chosen by God but later rejected due to his disobedience (1 Samuel 15:26). This moment marks a significant decline in Saul's reign, as he transitions from a king chosen by God to one who acts out of jealousy and fear. The Hebrew root for Saul, "Sha'ul," means "asked for" or "prayed for," reflecting Israel's initial desire for a king. This highlights the tragic irony of Saul's kingship, as the one who was once the answer to Israel's prayers becomes a source of turmoil.

told his son Jonathan
Jonathan, Saul's son, is a key figure in the narrative, known for his deep friendship with David. The Hebrew name "Yehonatan" means "Yahweh has given," indicating Jonathan's role as a divine gift in David's life. Despite his father's command, Jonathan's loyalty to David is unwavering, showcasing a profound example of covenant friendship and integrity. This phrase sets the stage for the tension between familial loyalty and divine purpose, as Jonathan must navigate his allegiance to his father and his friendship with David.

and all his servants
The inclusion of "all his servants" indicates the extent of Saul's paranoia and the widespread nature of his command. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a king's servants were expected to carry out his orders without question. However, this command to kill David, who had been a loyal servant and hero in Israel, reveals Saul's irrationality and the moral dilemma faced by those in his court. This phrase underscores the pervasive impact of Saul's jealousy, affecting not only his family but his entire administration.

to kill David
The command "to kill David" is a direct result of Saul's growing fear and jealousy of David, who had been anointed by Samuel as the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13). The Hebrew verb "harag" means "to kill" or "to slay," and its use here highlights the severity of Saul's intentions. David, whose name in Hebrew means "beloved," is a type of Christ, foreshadowing the ultimate anointed one who would face persecution. This phrase encapsulates the spiritual battle between God's chosen servant and the forces of opposition, reminding believers of the cost of following God's call.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, anointed by the prophet Samuel. At this point in the account, Saul is increasingly consumed by jealousy and fear of David, whom he perceives as a threat to his throne.

2. Jonathan
Saul's son, who has formed a deep friendship with David. Despite his father's intentions, Jonathan remains loyal to David, valuing their covenant and friendship over his father's commands.

3. David
Anointed by Samuel to be the next king of Israel, David is a young warrior who has gained favor with the people and with God. His success and popularity have incited Saul's jealousy.

4. Servants of Saul
These are the individuals in Saul's court who are commanded to carry out the king's orders. Their role highlights the tension between obedience to the king and moral integrity.

5. The Royal Court
The setting of this event, where political and personal dynamics play out, reflecting the broader conflict between Saul and David.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Jealousy
Saul's jealousy leads him to irrational and sinful actions. Believers are warned against allowing jealousy to take root in their hearts, as it can lead to destructive behavior.

The Value of Godly Friendship
Jonathan's loyalty to David exemplifies the importance of friendships grounded in faith and integrity. Believers are encouraged to cultivate relationships that honor God and support one another in righteousness.

Obedience to God Over Man
The servants of Saul face a moral dilemma. This highlights the principle that obedience to God should take precedence over human authority when the two are in conflict.

Trusting God's Plan
Despite the threat to his life, David's account reminds believers to trust in God's sovereignty and timing, even when circumstances seem dire.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Saul's command to kill David reflect the consequences of unchecked jealousy and fear in a leader's heart?

2. In what ways does Jonathan's relationship with David challenge us to evaluate the quality and depth of our own friendships?

3. How can we apply the principle of obeying God over human authority in our daily lives, especially when faced with ethical dilemmas?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to trust God's plan despite difficult circumstances. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

5. How do the events in 1 Samuel 19:1 encourage us to respond to those who may oppose or persecute us, in light of Jesus' teachings in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18
Provides context for Saul's growing jealousy and fear of David, setting the stage for his command to kill David.

Proverbs 17:17
Highlights the value of true friendship, as seen in Jonathan's loyalty to David.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies can be contrasted with Saul's actions and David's later responses to Saul's aggression.

Psalm 59
A psalm attributed to David during this period, expressing his trust in God amidst persecution.