1 Samuel 19:6

Saul listened to the voice of Jonathan and swore an oath: "As surely as the LORD lives, David will not be put to death."

Study Bible

Saul listened
The Hebrew root for "listened" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just hearing but also understanding and obeying. In the context of Saul's tumultuous reign, this moment of listening is significant. It reflects a temporary openness to counsel, particularly from his son Jonathan, who is a voice of reason and righteousness. This act of listening is a rare moment of clarity for Saul, who is often depicted as being driven by jealousy and paranoia. It serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding wise counsel, especially when it aligns with God's will.

to the voice of Jonathan
Jonathan, whose name means "Yahweh has given," is a pivotal figure in this narrative. His voice represents truth and loyalty, not only to his father, Saul, but also to David, whom he loves as a brother. Jonathan's advocacy for David is a testament to his integrity and his understanding of God's anointing on David. In a broader sense, Jonathan's voice can be seen as the voice of conscience and divine truth, urging Saul to act justly.

and swore an oath
The act of swearing an oath in ancient Israel was a solemn and binding commitment, often invoking the name of the LORD as a witness. The Hebrew word for "oath" is "שָׁבַע" (shava), which is related to the word for seven, symbolizing completeness and perfection. Saul's oath here is significant because it publicly commits him to a course of action that aligns with God's will, despite his personal animosity towards David. It highlights the gravity of making promises before God and the expectation of faithfulness to those promises.

As surely as the LORD lives
This phrase is a common oath formula in the Old Testament, emphasizing the certainty and seriousness of the statement. It acknowledges the eternal and unchanging nature of God, who is the ultimate witness to all human actions. By invoking the living LORD, Saul is reminded of the divine authority and the moral order established by God. This acknowledgment serves as a powerful reminder of the accountability that comes with leadership and the need to align one's actions with God's eternal truth.

David will not be put to death
David, whose name means "beloved," is central to God's redemptive plan for Israel. Saul's declaration here is a momentary alignment with God's purpose, recognizing David's anointing and future kingship. Historically, this statement is significant because it temporarily halts Saul's pursuit of David, allowing God's plan to unfold. It underscores the theme of divine protection over those whom God has chosen and the futility of opposing God's will. This assurance of life for David is a foreshadowing of the ultimate protection and deliverance found in God's sovereign plan for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Saul
The first king of Israel, who was anointed by the prophet Samuel. At this point in the account, Saul is struggling with jealousy and fear regarding David's rising popularity and success.

2. Jonathan
Saul's son, who has formed a deep friendship with David. Jonathan acts as a mediator between Saul and David, advocating for David's safety and well-being.

3. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. He is a man after God's own heart and is currently serving in Saul's court. His success and favor with God have made Saul envious.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, who is the ultimate authority and witness to Saul's oath.

5. Oath
Saul makes a solemn promise, invoking the name of the LORD, to spare David's life. This reflects the seriousness of his commitment at that moment.

Teaching Points

The Power of Advocacy
Jonathan's role as an advocate for David demonstrates the power of standing up for others, especially when they are unjustly threatened. As Christians, we are called to be advocates for justice and truth.

The Weight of an Oath
Saul's oath, made in the name of the LORD, reminds us of the seriousness of our words and promises. We should be mindful of the commitments we make, especially when invoking God's name.

The Influence of Godly Relationships
The friendship between Jonathan and David shows the impact of godly relationships. Surrounding ourselves with people who encourage us in our faith can help us navigate difficult situations.

The Sovereignty of God
Despite Saul's fluctuating intentions, God's sovereign plan for David's life prevails. This reassures us that God's purposes will stand, even amidst human opposition.

The Importance of Listening
Saul's decision to listen to Jonathan highlights the importance of being open to wise counsel. We should seek and heed godly advice in our decision-making processes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's advocacy for David inspire you to stand up for others in your own life?

2. Reflect on a time when you made a promise or commitment. How did you ensure that you honored it, especially if it involved invoking God's name?

3. In what ways can you cultivate godly relationships that encourage and strengthen your faith, similar to the friendship between Jonathan and David?

4. How does the sovereignty of God, as seen in David's life, provide comfort and assurance in your current circumstances?

5. What steps can you take to be more receptive to wise counsel and advice from others, especially when facing difficult decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the covenant friendship between Jonathan and David, highlighting Jonathan's loyalty and love for David, which plays a crucial role in the events of 1 Samuel 19:6.

Exodus 20:7
The commandment against taking the LORD's name in vain underscores the seriousness of Saul's oath, as invoking God's name in a promise is a solemn act.

Matthew 5:33-37
Jesus' teaching on oaths in the Sermon on the Mount provides a New Testament perspective on the importance of integrity and truthfulness in our commitments.