1 Samuel 20:3

But David again vowed, "Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said, 'Jonathan must not know of this, or he will be grieved.' As surely as the LORD lives and as you yourself live, there is but a step between me and death."

Study Bible

But David took an oath
The act of taking an oath in ancient Israel was a solemn and binding commitment, often invoking the name of God as a witness to the truth of one's words. The Hebrew word for "oath" is "שְׁבוּעָה" (shevu'ah), which signifies a promise or a vow made with deep sincerity. In this context, David's oath underscores the gravity of the situation and his earnestness in communicating the peril he faces. It reflects a culture where one's word, especially when sworn before God, was a matter of utmost integrity and seriousness.

and said, 'Your father knows very well
David refers to King Saul, Jonathan's father, who is aware of the close bond between Jonathan and David. The phrase "knows very well" indicates Saul's acute awareness and possibly his strategic thinking. The Hebrew root "יָדַע" (yada) means to know, perceive, or understand deeply. This suggests that Saul is not only aware of the friendship but also perceives it as a threat to his plans against David. Historically, this reflects the tension and political intrigue within Saul's court, where alliances and loyalties were constantly tested.

that I have found favor in your eyes
The phrase "found favor" is derived from the Hebrew "חֵן" (chen), meaning grace or favor. It implies a relationship of goodwill and acceptance. David acknowledges the special regard Jonathan has for him, which is significant given the royal context. This favor is not merely personal affection but also carries political implications, as Jonathan is the heir to the throne. The favor David finds in Jonathan's eyes is a testament to their covenant friendship, which transcends familial and political pressures.

and he has said to himself
This phrase suggests an internal dialogue within Saul, indicating his secretive and possibly deceitful nature. The Hebrew concept of speaking "to oneself" often implies contemplation or plotting. Saul's internal monologue reveals his intent to conceal his true plans from Jonathan, highlighting the duplicity and paranoia that characterize Saul's reign. This internal conflict within Saul is a recurring theme in the narrative, showcasing the tragic decline of a once-great king.

‘Jonathan must not know this, or he will be grieved.’
Saul's concern that Jonathan would be "grieved" if he knew the truth about his intentions towards David reveals the depth of Jonathan's loyalty and love for David. The Hebrew word for "grieved" is "עָצַב" (atsav), which conveys deep emotional pain or distress. This reflects the strong bond between Jonathan and David, a friendship that is both personal and covenantal. Saul's awareness of this bond and his attempt to manipulate it underscores the moral and relational complexities within the royal family.

Yet as surely as the LORD lives and as you live
This phrase is a solemn affirmation, invoking the name of the LORD, "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the covenant God of Israel. It is a common oath formula in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing the truth and seriousness of the statement. By invoking both the life of the LORD and Jonathan, David underscores the immediacy and certainty of his peril. This dual invocation highlights the sacredness of life and the divine witness to human affairs, reinforcing the gravity of David's situation.

there is but a step between me and death
David's expression "a step between me and death" vividly captures the precariousness of his situation. The imagery of a single step suggests imminent danger and the fragility of life. In the Hebrew context, life and death were often seen as being in the hands of God, yet here David acknowledges the human threat posed by Saul. This phrase encapsulates the tension and urgency of David's plight, serving as a poignant reminder of the thin line between life and death in the biblical narrative. It also foreshadows the trials David will face as he navigates the path to kingship under divine providence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is caught between his loyalty to his father and his covenant friendship with David.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, seeing him as a threat to his throne.

4. The Oath
David swears an oath to Jonathan, emphasizing the seriousness of his situation and the imminent danger he faces.

5. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, whom David invokes to affirm the truth of his perilous situation.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Persecution
David's experience reminds us that following God's will can lead to persecution and danger. Believers should be prepared for trials and trust in God's protection.

The Value of Godly Friendships
The bond between David and Jonathan illustrates the importance of having godly friends who support and encourage us in our faith journey.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the threat to his life, David acknowledges God's control over his circumstances. Believers are called to trust in God's sovereignty, even when facing life's uncertainties.

The Power of a Covenant Relationship
The covenant between David and Jonathan is a powerful example of commitment and loyalty. Christians are encouraged to honor their commitments to God and others.

Living with an Eternal Perspective
David's awareness of the brevity of life ("there is but a step between me and death") challenges us to live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing what truly matters.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's situation in 1 Samuel 20:3 reflect the challenges faced by believers today who are committed to following God's will?

2. In what ways can the friendship between David and Jonathan inspire us to cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships within our Christian community?

3. How can we apply David's trust in God's sovereignty to our own lives, especially when facing difficult or dangerous situations?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor our commitments to God and others, as seen in the covenant relationship between David and Jonathan?

5. How does living with the awareness of life's brevity, as David expressed, influence our daily decisions and priorities as Christians?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 23
David's acknowledgment of God's presence and protection, even in the face of death, echoes his trust in God despite the danger he faces from Saul.

Proverbs 18:24
The deep friendship between David and Jonathan exemplifies the proverb about a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Hebrews 11:32-34
David is listed among the heroes of faith, highlighting his trust in God despite the threats to his life.

John 15:13
Jonathan's willingness to protect David at great personal risk reflects the ultimate expression of love described by Jesus.