So David told him, "Look, tomorrow is the New Moon, and I am supposed to dine with the king. Instead, let me go and hide in the field until the third evening from now. So David told him,David spoke openly with Jonathan because their covenant friendship had made Jonathan a trusted protector rather than an ally of Saul’s murderous plans. 1Sa 23:16-18 And Saul’s son Jonathan came to David in Horesh… “Look, tomorrow is the New Moon, The New Moon began the new month and was marked by sacrifices and worship before the LORD (Numbers 28:11–15). Saul’s royal household also observed the occasion with a formal meal. 2Ki 4:23 “Why would you go to him today?” he replied.… and I am supposed to dine with the king. David’s place at Saul’s table reflected his former honor in the king’s court, yet Saul’s jealousy had turned that privileged setting into a place of danger. David could not safely appear unless Jonathan first learned Saul’s true intention. 2Sa 9:7 “Do not be afraid,” said David, “for surely”… Instead, let me go and hide in the field David withdrew to the field near the stone Ezel, where Jonathan could later bring him word. His hiding was prudent action in the face of real danger, while his life remained under the LORD’s preserving hand. 1Sa 19:2 My father Saul intends to kill you. Be on guard… until the third evening from now. The three-day absence would give Jonathan sufficient opportunity to observe Saul’s response at the feast. Saul’s reaction to David’s empty place would reveal whether his hostility had become settled purpose. Jos 1:11 Go through the camp and tell the people,… Persons / Places / Events 1. DavidThe anointed future king of Israel, currently serving in King Saul's court. He is in a precarious position due to Saul's jealousy and attempts on his life. 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. King Saul The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly hostile towards David due to jealousy and fear of losing his throne. 4. New Moon Festival A significant religious and social event in ancient Israel, marking the beginning of the month. It involved sacrifices and communal meals. 5. Field The place where David plans to hide, symbolizing his need for safety and the precariousness of his situation. Teaching Points The Importance of Godly FriendshipsJonathan and David's relationship exemplifies the strength and support found in friendships rooted in faith and mutual respect. Believers should seek and cultivate friendships that encourage spiritual growth and provide support in times of trial. Trusting God's Timing David's decision to hide rather than confront Saul shows his reliance on God's timing and protection. In our lives, we should trust God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem dire. The Role of Tradition and Community The New Moon festival highlights the importance of communal worship and tradition. Engaging in regular fellowship and worship with other believers strengthens our faith and community bonds. Courage in Adversity David's situation required courage and wisdom. As believers, we are called to face challenges with faith and courage, trusting in God's provision and guidance. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the friendship between David and Jonathan challenge or inspire your own relationships? What qualities of their friendship can you apply to your life?2. In what ways can you trust God's timing in your current circumstances, as David did when he chose to hide? 3. How do you participate in communal worship and traditions, and how do these practices strengthen your faith? 4. What steps can you take to show courage and wisdom in a challenging situation you are currently facing? 5. How can the account of David and Jonathan inform your understanding of loyalty and faithfulness in your relationships with others and with God? Connections to Other Scriptures 1 Samuel 18:1-4This passage describes the covenant friendship between David and Jonathan, highlighting the depth of their bond and Jonathan's willingness to protect David. Psalm 55:12-14 David's lament about betrayal by a close friend can be seen as reflective of the tension and potential betrayal he faces from Saul, despite Saul's earlier favor. Proverbs 17:17 This verse speaks to the loyalty of a friend, which is exemplified in Jonathan's actions towards David. Hebrews 10:25 The importance of gathering together, as seen in the New Moon festival, is echoed in the New Testament's encouragement for believers to meet regularly.
People Abner, David, Jesse, Jonathan, SaulPlaces Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Naioth, RamahTopics Behold, David, Dine, Evening, Fail, Festival, Field, Hide, Jonathan, Moon, Myself, Supposed, Third, TomorrowDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Samuel 20:5Library 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 20:5 NIV1 Samuel 20:5 NLT 1 Samuel 20:5 ESV 1 Samuel 20:5 NASB 1 Samuel 20:5 KJV 1 Samuel 20:5 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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