I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as if I were aiming at a target. I will shoot three arrowsJonathan arranged a simple but effective signal to reveal Saul’s decision without exposing David. Arrows were familiar instruments in hunting and warfare, allowing Jonathan to carry out the plan naturally before others. 2Ki 13:17 “Open the east window,” said Elisha. So he opened it.… to the side of it, David would remain concealed in the field while Jonathan’s directions to the boy indicated whether Saul’s anger had turned deadly. The arrangement shows the care Jonathan took to protect David while maintaining secrecy at court. 2Ki 13:18 Then Elisha said, “Take the arrows!” So he took them.… as if I were aiming at a target. Jonathan’s actions would appear to be ordinary archery practice, concealing their communication from anyone who might report it to Saul. Lam 3:12 He bent His bow and set me as the target for His arrow. Persons / Places / Events 1. JonathanThe son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is the one who devises the plan involving the arrows to communicate with David. 2. David The future king of Israel, currently in hiding due to King Saul's jealousy and intent to kill him. He is the recipient of Jonathan's secret message. 3. Saul The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly hostile towards David, perceiving him as a threat to his throne. 4. Field The location where Jonathan and David meet to discuss their plan. It serves as a neutral ground for their secret communication. 5. Arrows Used by Jonathan as a signal to communicate with David about Saul's intentions, without arousing suspicion. Teaching Points The Value of True FriendshipJonathan and David's relationship exemplifies the biblical ideal of friendship, characterized by loyalty, sacrifice, and mutual support. Courage in Adversity Jonathan's actions demonstrate courage and faithfulness, even when faced with potential danger from his own father, King Saul. God's Sovereignty and Protection Despite Saul's intentions, God's plan for David's future kingship is protected through Jonathan's intervention. Communication and Wisdom The use of the arrows as a covert signal highlights the importance of wisdom and discretion in communication, especially in times of danger. Faithfulness to God's Anointed Jonathan's respect and support for David, despite his father's opposition, show a commitment to God's chosen leader. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us in our own friendships and relationships today?2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage and faithfulness in the face of adversity, as Jonathan did? 3. How does the account of Jonathan and David encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and protection in our lives? 4. What are some practical ways we can use wisdom and discretion in our communication, especially in sensitive situations? 5. How can we show respect and support for those whom God has placed in leadership, even when it may be difficult or unpopular? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 18:1-4This passage describes the deep friendship and covenant between Jonathan and David, which sets the stage for the events in 1 Samuel 20. Proverbs 17:17 This verse speaks to the loyalty and love of a true friend, exemplified by Jonathan's actions towards David. John 15:13 Jesus speaks of the greatest love being laying down one's life for friends, which parallels Jonathan's willingness to risk his own safety for David.
People Abner, David, Jesse, Jonathan, SaulPlaces Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Naioth, RamahTopics Arrows, Bow, Mark, Myself, Sending, Shoot, Shooting, Shot, Side-ward, Target, Thereof, Third, ThoughDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 20:1-42Library Jonathan, the Pattern of Friendship'And David fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done? what is mine iniquity? and what is my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life? 2. And he said unto him, God forbid; thou shalt not die: behold, my father will do nothing either great or small, but that he will shew it me: and why should my father hide this thing from me? it is not so. 3. And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine eyes; and he saith, … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture A Word for the Persecuted How to Make Use of Christ for Steadfastness, in a Time when Truth is Oppressed and Borne Down. Samuel Links 1 Samuel 20:20 NIV1 Samuel 20:20 NLT 1 Samuel 20:20 ESV 1 Samuel 20:20 NASB 1 Samuel 20:20 KJV 1 Samuel 20:20 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |