◄ 1 Samuel 20 ►
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Summary Jonathan and David Renew Their Covenant 1 Samuel 20 is a moving account of loyalty and love in the face of danger. It teaches the power of friendship, commitment, and the importance of keeping promises, even when it requires sacrifice. Jonathan and David stand as a timeless example of friendship that outlasts adversity. Plot to Uncover Saul's Intentions (Verses 1-10) David seeks answers from Jonathan, Saul's son and his closest friend, on why Saul seeks to kill him. Jonathan initially disbelieves David, but David insists on the truth of the danger. They devise a plan: David will be absent from the New Moon feast, and based on Saul's reaction, they will determine his intentions. Covenant of Friendship (Verses 11-23) Jonathan and David establish a covenant, asking God to be a witness between them and their descendants. Jonathan promises to disclose his father's intentions to David, while David promises to show kindness to Jonathan and his family even after his death. Saul's Fury Unleashed (Verses 24-34) At the feast, Saul notices David's absence but remains silent on the first day. On the second day, upon questioning Jonathan about David's absence, Saul’s anger erupts when he hears David has gone to Bethlehem. He throws a spear at Jonathan, confirming his lethal intent towards David. Parting of Friends (Verses 35-42) Jonathan reveals to David the news of Saul’s intent, and they part ways with a deep sense of sorrow. They reaffirm their covenant before saying goodbye, knowing they may never meet again. 1 Samuel 20 reveals a deep friendship and loyalty between David and Jonathan, who both find themselves in a difficult situation due to King Saul's jealousy and rage towards David. The chapter vividly portrays the depth of their bond, the ploys to uncover Saul's intentions, and the raw emotions that surface as they face a grim reality. Teaching Points Covenantal Friendship Jonathan and David's relationship is marked by a covenant, highlighting the biblical principle of steadfast love and loyalty. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself (1 Samuel 20:17). Divine Providence Despite Saul's intent to kill David, God's providence is evident as He uses Jonathan to protect David. This underscores the theme of God's sovereignty and protection over His anointed. Moral Courage Jonathan displays moral courage by standing up to his father, King Saul, to protect David. This act of bravery is a testament to his integrity and commitment to righteousness. Communication and Trust The secretive communication between Jonathan and David through the use of arrows (1 Samuel 20:20-22) illustrates the importance of trust and clear communication in relationships. Practical Applications Evaluate Your Friendships Reflect on your own friendships. Are they characterized by loyalty and selflessness as seen in Jonathan and David's relationship? Stand for Righteousness Be willing to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or when it involves confronting those in authority. Trust in God's Plan In times of uncertainty or danger, trust in God's providence and His ability to protect and guide you. Communicate Effectively Ensure that your communication with others is clear and trustworthy, especially in critical situations. People 1. David David is the central figure in 1 Samuel 20, a young shepherd who has been anointed by the prophet Samuel to be the future king of Israel. He is a close friend of Jonathan, King Saul's son, and is fleeing from Saul's attempts to kill him. David's name in Hebrew is דָּוִד (Dawid), meaning "beloved." 2. Jonathan Jonathan is the son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is depicted as loyal and protective of David, even at the risk of his own relationship with his father. His name in Hebrew is יְהוֹנָתָן (Yehonatan), meaning "Yahweh has given." 3. Saul King Saul is the first king of Israel and the father of Jonathan. He is increasingly hostile towards David, whom he sees as a threat to his throne. Saul's name in Hebrew is שָׁאוּל (Sha'ul), meaning "asked for" or "prayed for." 4. Ahimelech Although not directly mentioned in 1 Samuel 20, Ahimelech is the priest who later provides David with bread and Goliath's sword in the subsequent chapter. His name in Hebrew is אֲחִימֶלֶךְ (Achimelech), meaning "my brother is king." 5. The boy (unnamed servant) In 1 Samuel 20:35-40, Jonathan uses a young boy to retrieve arrows as part of a prearranged signal to communicate with David. The boy is not named, but he plays a crucial role in the secretive communication between Jonathan and David. Places 1. Naioth in Ramah In 1 Samuel 20, Naioth in Ramah is mentioned as a place where David had previously sought refuge with Samuel. Although it is not directly referenced in the events of this chapter, its significance lies in the preceding narrative where David fled to Naioth to escape Saul's pursuit. The Hebrew root for Naioth (נָוִית) suggests a dwelling or habitation, indicating a place of residence or community within Ramah. 2. Gibeah Gibeah is the location where King Saul resides and holds his court. In 1 Samuel 20:1, David comes from Naioth in Ramah to Gibeah to speak with Jonathan. Gibeah, meaning "hill" in Hebrew (גִּבְעָה), is significant as the royal city of Saul, highlighting the tension and danger David faces in approaching Saul's territory. 3. The Field The field is the location where Jonathan and David meet to discuss Saul's intentions and devise a plan to communicate safely. In 1 Samuel 20:11, Jonathan suggests going out into the field to ensure privacy for their conversation. The Hebrew term for field (שָׂדֶה, sadeh) indicates an open area, which in this context provides a secluded setting away from potential eavesdroppers. Events 1. David Flees from Naioth David escapes from Naioth in Ramah and goes to Jonathan, seeking to understand why Saul is trying to kill him. He asks, “What have I done? What is my iniquity, and what is my sin before your father, that he seeks my life?” (1 Samuel 20:1). 2. Jonathan's Assurance Jonathan reassures David that he will not die, stating, “Far from it! You will not die. Behold, my father does nothing great or small without disclosing it to me. So why would my father hide this matter from me? It is not so!” (1 Samuel 20:2). 3. David's Oath David insists that Saul is aware of Jonathan’s favor towards him and has hidden his intentions from Jonathan. David swears, “As surely as the LORD lives and as you live, there is but a step between me and death” (1 Samuel 20:3). 4. Jonathan's Proposal Jonathan offers to help David, saying, “Whatever you desire, I will do for you” (1 Samuel 20:4). 5. The New Moon Feast Plan David proposes a plan to test Saul’s intentions during the New Moon feast. He asks Jonathan to observe Saul’s reaction when David is absent, explaining, “If your father misses me at all, then say, ‘David earnestly asked my permission to hurry to Bethlehem, his hometown, because there is an annual sacrifice for his whole clan’” (1 Samuel 20:6). 6. Jonathan's Covenant with David Jonathan makes a covenant with David, affirming his loyalty and love, “May the LORD be with you as He was with my father. And if I remain alive, may you show me the loving devotion of the LORD, that I may not die” (1 Samuel 20:13-14). 7. The Signal Plan Jonathan devises a signal involving shooting arrows to communicate Saul’s intentions to David. He instructs David to hide in the field and says, “I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I were aiming at a target” (1 Samuel 20:20). 8. Saul's Anger at the Feast On the second day of the feast, Saul notices David’s absence and becomes angry with Jonathan, accusing him of siding with David. Saul says, “You son of a perverse and rebellious woman! Do I not know that you have sided with the son of Jesse to your own shame and to the shame of your mother who bore you?” (1 Samuel 20:30). 9. Jonathan Defends David Jonathan defends David, questioning Saul’s intent to kill him. Saul’s anger escalates, and he throws a spear at Jonathan, confirming his intent to harm David (1 Samuel 20:32-33). 10. The Arrow Signal Jonathan goes to the field and uses the prearranged signal with the arrows to inform David that it is not safe. He calls out to the boy retrieving the arrows, “Is not the arrow beyond you?” (1 Samuel 20:37). 11. The Farewell After the boy leaves, David and Jonathan meet, weep together, and say their goodbyes. Jonathan tells David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, ‘The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever’” (1 Samuel 20:42). Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. This verse echoes the loyalty and support seen in Jonathan and David's friendship. John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. Jonathan's willingness to risk his life for David foreshadows the ultimate act of love demonstrated by Jesus. Psalm 91:2 I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' This psalm reflects the trust in God's protection that David experienced. Prayer Points Pray for the strength to be a loyal and faithful friend, reflecting the love of Christ in your relationships. Ask God for courage to stand up for righteousness, even when it is challenging. Seek God's guidance and protection in times of uncertainty, trusting in His divine plan for your life. Pray for wisdom in communication, that it may be clear, honest, and edifying. Bible Study Questions 1. How does David communicate his fear and concern to Jonathan at the beginning of the chapter? How can this apply to our communication within friendships today? 2. In what ways does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge societal expectations? What can we learn from his loyalty to a friend over his loyalty to his family? 3. How do Jonathan and David use the New Moon feast to understand Saul's intentions? What does this suggest about their strategic thinking and faith in God? 4. How does the covenant between Jonathan and David reflect their faith and commitment to each other? How can we apply this in modern relationships? 5. Discuss the role of trust in David and Jonathan's relationship. How did it influence their actions? 6. Explore the impact of Saul's anger on his relationships, particularly with his son Jonathan. 7. How does Saul’s reaction to David’s absence confirm his ill intentions towards him? What does this teach us about interpreting actions of others? 8. How does the parting of Jonathan and David reflect the sorrow and pain of their situation? How can we handle such emotional moments in our lives? 9. How is the concept of covenant significant in this chapter? How does it tie into the broader theme of covenants in the Bible? 10. Explore the theme of sacrifice in this chapter. What sacrifices are made and why? 11. Why does David trust Jonathan, despite knowing that he is Saul's son? What does this teach us about trust? 12. How does 1 Samuel 20 challenge the traditional expectations of loyalty to one's family versus friends? 13. Discuss the theme of betrayal in this chapter. How does it manifest and what are the consequences? 14. What can we learn from David's resilience and faith during this difficult period in his life? 15. How does Jonathan balance his loyalty towards his father and his friendship with David? How can we apply this in situations where we have conflicting loyalties? 16. How do David and Jonathan's actions demonstrate their faith in God during this trial? 17. Discuss the symbolic meaning of Saul's thrown spear. What does it represent? 18. How can David and Jonathan's friendship serve as an example for us in present day living? 19. What does the chapter teach about dealing with people who have ill intentions against us? 20. How can the narrative of David, Jonathan, and Saul in 1 Samuel 20 be used as a guide for dealing with conflicts and challenges in our own relationships? Topics 1. David and Jonathan's Covenant In 1 Samuel 20, David seeks refuge with Jonathan, expressing his fear that Saul intends to kill him. Jonathan reassures David of his loyalty, and they renew their covenant of friendship. The Hebrew word for covenant, "בְּרִית" (berit), signifies a solemn and binding agreement, highlighting the deep commitment between David and Jonathan. 2. Jonathan's Loyalty Tested Jonathan devises a plan to discern Saul's intentions towards David. He promises to inform David of his father's disposition, demonstrating his loyalty to David over his own father, King Saul. This loyalty is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "חֶסֶד" (chesed), often translated as "loving-kindness" or "faithful love." 3. The New Moon Feast The chapter describes the New Moon feast, a significant event in the Hebrew calendar. David's absence from the feast is a critical part of Jonathan's plan to gauge Saul's reaction. The New Moon, or "חֹדֶשׁ" (chodesh), was a time of religious observance and communal gathering. 4. Saul's Anger and Hostility Saul's anger is kindled when David is absent from the feast, and he lashes out at Jonathan, revealing his intent to kill David. Saul's hostility underscores the Hebrew concept of "רָעָה" (ra'ah), meaning evil or harm, which contrasts with the righteousness of David and Jonathan's actions. 5. The Secret Signal Jonathan uses a prearranged signal involving arrows to communicate Saul's intentions to David. This covert method reflects the danger and tension of the situation, as well as the ingenuity and trust between the two friends. 6. The Emotional Farewell After confirming Saul's intent, Jonathan and David meet for an emotional farewell. They reaffirm their covenant, with Jonathan asking David to show kindness to his family in the future. The Hebrew word "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), meaning peace or completeness, encapsulates their hope for future reconciliation and safety. 7. The Perpetual Covenant The chapter concludes with Jonathan and David parting ways, but not before they reiterate their covenant, which extends to their descendants. This enduring promise is a testament to their faithfulness and the divine oversight of their relationship, as seen in the Hebrew understanding of "עוֹלָם" (olam), meaning everlasting or perpetual. Themes 1. Covenant Friendship The chapter highlights the deep bond and covenant between David and Jonathan. In 1 Samuel 20:16-17, Jonathan makes a covenant with the house of David, emphasizing loyalty and love. The Hebrew word for covenant, "בְּרִית" (berit), signifies a solemn agreement, underscoring the sacredness of their friendship. 2. Loyalty and Betrayal Jonathan's loyalty to David contrasts with Saul's betrayal. Despite his father's intentions, Jonathan remains faithful to David, as seen in 1 Samuel 20:9, where he assures David that he will inform him of any harm planned by Saul. This theme explores the tension between familial loyalty and moral integrity. 3. Divine Providence The narrative demonstrates God's providence in protecting David through Jonathan's actions. In 1 Samuel 20:23, Jonathan refers to the LORD as a witness between them, indicating trust in God's oversight. The Hebrew term "יְהוָה" (YHWH) reflects the covenantal name of God, emphasizing His role in guiding events. 4. Fear and Anxiety David's fear of Saul's wrath is palpable throughout the chapter. In 1 Samuel 20:3, David expresses his fear, saying, "There is but a step between me and death." The Hebrew word "מָוֶת" (mavet) for death highlights the imminent danger David perceives, illustrating the theme of human vulnerability. 5. Communication and Misunderstanding The chapter underscores the importance of clear communication and the potential for misunderstanding. Jonathan and David devise a plan to communicate Saul's intentions in 1 Samuel 20:18-22, using a coded message involving arrows. This theme reflects the need for wisdom and discernment in relationships. 6. Sacrificial Love Jonathan's willingness to risk his life for David exemplifies sacrificial love. In 1 Samuel 20:34, Jonathan leaves the table in fierce anger, grieving his father's shameful treatment of David. The Hebrew word "חָרָה" (charah) for anger conveys a deep emotional response, highlighting Jonathan's commitment to David over his own safety. 7. Divine Justice The chapter hints at the theme of divine justice, as Jonathan acknowledges that the LORD will hold them accountable for their covenant. In 1 Samuel 20:42, Jonathan says, "The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever." This reflects the belief in God's ultimate justice and faithfulness. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions