When the boy reached the place where Jonathan's arrow had fallen, Jonathan called to him, "Isn't the arrow beyond you?" When the boy reached the place where Jonathan’s arrow had fallen,Jonathan’s young attendant had no knowledge of the covenant or the danger hidden within the archery exercise. The field outside Gibeah gave Jonathan a means to meet David without drawing Saul’s attention. David remained concealed, waiting for the signal that would determine whether he could return safely to Saul’s court or must flee for his life. 2Ki 13:17-19 “Open the east window,” said Elisha. So he opened it.… Jonathan called to him, Jonathan carried out the plan made with David, placing faithfulness to God’s righteous purpose above loyalty to his father’s sinful hatred. His care for David reflected their covenant friendship and preserved the life of the man God had chosen to become king. Gen 22:11-12 Just then the angel of the LORD called out to him… “Isn’t the arrow beyond you?” The words announced that Saul’s hostility was certain and that David must escape. Jonathan used the arrow—a weapon associated with Saul’s violence—as a warning that protected David from that violence. God’s providence worked through Jonathan’s courage and wisdom, guiding David into the difficult years of exile while preserving him for the kingdom promised to him. Deu 30:11-14 For this commandment I give you today is not too difficult… Persons / Places / Events 1. JonathanThe son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is known for his loyalty and covenant friendship with David, despite his father Saul's animosity towards David. 2. David The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. At this point in the account, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him. 3. The Boy A young servant of Jonathan, used as a messenger in the covert communication between Jonathan and David. 4. The Field The location where Jonathan and David arranged to communicate secretly about Saul's intentions. It serves as a neutral ground away from the palace intrigue. 5. The Arrow A symbol used by Jonathan to communicate with David. The direction and distance of the arrow were prearranged signals to convey whether David was safe or in danger. Teaching Points The Value of True FriendshipJonathan and David's relationship exemplifies the biblical ideal of friendship, characterized by loyalty, sacrifice, and mutual support. In a world where relationships can be transactional, their friendship challenges us to seek and cultivate deeper, covenantal bonds. Courage in Adversity Jonathan's actions demonstrate courage and integrity. Despite the risk to his own position and safety, he chooses to protect David. This teaches us the importance of standing by our convictions and supporting others, even when it is costly. God's Sovereignty and Protection The use of the arrow as a signal shows God's providence in providing a way for David to be warned and protected. It reminds us that God often works through ordinary means and people to accomplish His purposes. Communication and Trust The covert communication between Jonathan and David underscores the importance of trust and clear communication in relationships. It encourages us to be intentional and wise in how we communicate, especially in difficult situations. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge our understanding of friendship and loyalty in our own lives?2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage and integrity in our relationships, as Jonathan did with David? 3. How does the account of Jonathan and David encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty and protection in our own lives? 4. What practical steps can we take to ensure clear and effective communication in our relationships, especially during times of conflict or misunderstanding? 5. How can the example of Jonathan and David's friendship inspire us to build and maintain covenantal relationships in our own communities? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 18This chapter details the covenant between Jonathan and David, highlighting their deep friendship and mutual loyalty, which sets the stage for the events in chapter 20. Proverbs 17:17 This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is exemplified in Jonathan and David's relationship. 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 actions towards David.
People Abner, David, Jesse, Jonathan, SaulPlaces Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Naioth, RamahTopics Arrow, Beyond, Boy, Calleth, Cried, Crying, Fallen, Isn't, Jonathan, Jonathan's, Lad, Past, Reached, Shot, YouthDictionary 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 20:37 NIV1 Samuel 20:37 NLT 1 Samuel 20:37 ESV 1 Samuel 20:37 NASB 1 Samuel 20:37 KJV 1 Samuel 20:37 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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