1 Samuel 20:35

In the morning Jonathan went out to the field for the appointment with David, and a small boy was with him.

Study Bible

In the morning
The phrase "in the morning" signifies a new beginning, a fresh start, and often in Scripture, it is a time of revelation or action. In Hebrew, "morning" (בֹּקֶר, boqer) often symbolizes hope and the faithfulness of God, as seen in Lamentations 3:23, "They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." This morning marks a pivotal moment in the relationship between Jonathan and David, highlighting the urgency and importance of their secret meeting.

Jonathan went out
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, is a figure of loyalty and righteousness. His actions are deliberate and courageous, as he chooses to protect David despite the potential consequences from his father, Saul. The Hebrew root for "went out" (יָצָא, yatsa) often implies a purposeful departure, indicating Jonathan's intentional and brave decision to support David, aligning with God's plan for David's future kingship.

to the field
The field serves as a neutral and open space, away from the prying eyes of Saul's court. In biblical times, fields were often places of solitude and reflection, as well as divine encounters, such as with Ruth and Boaz. The Hebrew word for "field" (שָׂדֶה, sadeh) can also imply a place of labor and harvest, symbolizing the work and effort required to maintain their covenant and friendship.

for the appointment
The term "appointment" (מוֹעֵד, moed) in Hebrew can also mean a designated time or meeting, often used in the context of sacred assemblies or festivals. This underscores the solemnity and significance of Jonathan and David's meeting, as it is not just a casual encounter but a divinely orchestrated moment to reaffirm their covenant and ensure David's safety.

with David
David, the anointed future king of Israel, is in a precarious position, fleeing from Saul's wrath. His name (דָּוִד, David) means "beloved," reflecting his status as a man after God's own heart. This meeting with Jonathan is crucial for David's survival and the fulfillment of God's promise to him. It highlights the deep bond and mutual respect between the two men, rooted in their shared faith and trust in God's plan.

and a small boy was with him
The presence of a "small boy" (נַעַר קָטָן, na'ar qatan) serves a practical purpose, as he is unaware of the true nature of the meeting and can innocently assist Jonathan without arousing suspicion. In Scripture, children often symbolize innocence and purity, and the boy's role here underscores the covert and delicate nature of Jonathan's mission to communicate with David. The boy's presence also highlights Jonathan's wisdom in using discretion to protect both himself and David.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Jonathan is known for his loyalty and covenant friendship with David, even in the face of his father Saul's hostility towards David.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. At this point in the account, David is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

3. The Field
The location where Jonathan and David had arranged to meet. It serves as a neutral and secretive place for their communication, away from the prying eyes of Saul's court.

4. The Small Boy
An unnamed servant accompanying Jonathan. He is unaware of the true purpose of the meeting and serves as a cover for Jonathan's communication with David.

5. The Appointment
A pre-arranged meeting between Jonathan and David, where Jonathan would signal to David about Saul's intentions using arrows as a sign.

Teaching Points

Loyalty in Friendship
Jonathan's actions demonstrate the importance of loyalty and faithfulness in friendships, even when it requires personal sacrifice.

Courage to Stand for Righteousness
Jonathan's willingness to defy his father, King Saul, in order to protect David shows the courage required to stand for what is right, even against powerful opposition.

God's Sovereignty in Relationships
The friendship between Jonathan and David is a testament to God's providence in bringing people together for His purposes. It reminds us to value and nurture the relationships God places in our lives.

The Role of Discretion
Jonathan's use of a small boy and a field meeting illustrates the need for discretion and wisdom in handling sensitive situations.

Trust in God's Plan
Despite the danger, both Jonathan and David trust in God's plan for their lives, showing us the importance of faith in God's timing and purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us to evaluate our own friendships and commitments?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage in standing for righteousness in our own lives, as Jonathan did?

3. How can we discern and nurture the relationships that God has placed in our lives for His purposes?

4. What are some practical ways we can exercise discretion and wisdom in our interactions with others, especially in sensitive situations?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's plan for our lives, even when circumstances seem uncertain or dangerous?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the covenant friendship between Jonathan and David, highlighting the deep bond and loyalty that underpins the events of 1 Samuel 20:35.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is exemplified in Jonathan's actions towards David.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, a principle that Jonathan embodies in his willingness to protect David at great personal risk.