forge true friendship

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GET INTO THE STUDY 5 minutes DISCUSS: Draw attention to the picture on PSG page 26

SESSION 2

FORGE TRUE FRIENDSHIP

and ask Question #1: What do you enjoy most about your lifelong friendships?

The Point

GUIDE: Direct attention to

Strong friendships thrive because of

The Bible Meets Life on

shared commitment.

PSG, page 27 to differentiate between the quantity of

The Bible Meets Life

friends some people have

We are familiar with business

compared with the quality of

contracts and marriage covenants,

the close, personal friendships

but we rarely think of our

a person has.

friendships in terms of a covenant. It’s not likely a formal agreement, but we often recognize a bond between friends that goes beyond just a shared

SAY: “Today we look at the

interest or affinity. In the Book of 1 Samuel, David and Jonathan gave us an

close, personal friendship of

example of what such a covenant looks like.

David and Jonathan.” Reinforce the importance of mutual commitment in

The Passages 1 Samuel 18:1-4; 19:4-7; 20:10-13

relationships by reading The

The Setting

Point (PSG, p. 27): Strong

Following David’s stunning victory over Goliath, Saul promoted him and

friendships thrive because

brought him into the king’s court. Soon Saul gave David command of Israel’s

of shared commitment.

army. With each battle success, David became more of a hero in the minds of

PRAY: Begin the Bible study with prayer. Ask for God to open our eyes to the importance of practicing these principles in our friendships.

28

S e ss i o n 2

the people, becoming more popular than Saul. Saul’s son, Jonathan, developed a strong friendship with David. Jonathan had already commanded the army to win two significant victories (13:1-4; 14:1-46), so David’s courage likely attracted Jonathan to David.

STUDY THE BIBLE

1 Samuel 18:1-4 1 When David had finished speaking with Saul, Jonathan was

bound to David in close friendship, and loved him as much as he loved himself. 2 Saul kept David with him from that day on and did not let

Samuel 18:1-4 . 10 minutes SUMMARIZE: Before reading the passage, set the context by

him return to his father’s house.

summarizing the information

3 Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved

in The Setting on page 28.

him as much as himself. 4 Then Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave

LEADER PACK: Point to

it to David, along with his military tunic, his sword, his bow,

Item 2: 1 & 2 Samuel

and his belt.

Timeline.

KEY WORDS: Loved (18:1)—The Hebrew word covers a range of relationships in the Bible. Here it describes the idea of being knit soul to soul in desire and purpose. Covenant (18:3)—An alliance or pact between two parties representing the strongest bond known to man; included obligations as well as the penalty for breaking the contract. READ: Read or ask a volunteer

Strong friends exhibit selflessness.

to read 1 Samuel 18:1-4.

The stalemate between Israel and the Philistines ended with David’s defeat of Goliath. The Israelite army routed the Philistines. Then the Israelites returned and plundered the Philistine camp (17:52-53). Immediately after the battle settled down, Saul summoned David. Abner, Saul’s chief military officer brought David, still carrying Goliath’s head, to Saul. The king asked David about his family background (vv. 57-58). Verse 1. Apparently Saul’s son, Jonathan, listened as his father interviewed David. David impressed Jonathan, who obviously admired David for his bravery and leadership. Jonathan immediately was bound to David in close friendship. From this point forward, these two men would enjoy a lasting commitment as kindred spirits. The Hebrew word rendered bound to literally meant “to chain or to tie together.” Jonathan pledged his soul to David, which the biblical writer emphasized by stating that Jonathan loved him as much as he loved himself. The relationship between Jonathan and David surpassed the human level.

SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 1 to explain the meaning of the phrase “Jonathan was bound to David in close friendship.”

1

GUIDE: Refer group members to the article “Jonathan: A Forgotten Hero” on page 38 (PSG, p. 36).

S U G G E S T E D U S E | W E E K O F J U N E 11

29

THE POINT

Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.

SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 2 to explain how some have misinterpreted the intimate language the biblical writer used to describe the relationship between Jonathan and David and to clarify that their relationship represented the kind of friendship all believers should experience.

GUIDE: Refer members to Key Words on page 38 (PSG, p. 28) to give further insight into the words love and covenant.

GUIDE: Refer group members to PSG page 29, to the paragraphs that explain the concept of covenant.

SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 3 on this page and page 31 to provide more depth to the pledge of friendship and absolute loyalty between Jonathan and David. Point out the symbolic meaning of Jonathan’s gifts of his robe, military tunic, sword, bow and belt.

30

S e ss i o n 2

Unfortunately, some mistakenly view David and Jonathan as young men who liked each other very much because they shared common interests. Some have even erroneously claimed that because the writer used such intimate language to describe their relationship, they must have had a sexual relationship. Such conclusions are shallow and inaccurate. Since they had much in common, Jonathan’s heart would have been drawn to David with the kind of manly affection that comrades in the military understand. This more accurately describes the love they had for each other, rather than any attempt to twist the biblical description of their relationship into some kind of sordid, ungodly one. Actually, their relationship represented the kind of friendship that all believers should experience. God places certain people in our lives for a reason. Don’t resist this process; let God knit you to people He brings into your life. Concerning the ages of David and Jonathan, the Bible offers some clues. Since he could not serve in the army (v. 33), David had not reached the age of 20 (Num. 1:3). Jonathan served as a commander in the army, and given that he commanded one-third of the army and had won two great victories (1 Sam. 13:1-4; 14:1-14), he had to be a seasoned soldier. Some scholars suggest the age difference between David and Jonathan may have been as many as 20 years. 2

Verse 2. Saul had previously enlisted David to play his lyre for Saul to calm his troubled heart (16:14-23). Apparently, David played for Saul on an “as-needed” basis and would have otherwise lived at home. David’s life changed because Saul decided that this lyre-playing, slingshot-toting shepherd boy should serve in the royal court on a permanent basis. Verses 3-4. Jonathan loved David, and at some point, that love inspired Jonathan to initiate a covenant with David. Though the terms were not stated, at the very least the two men pledged their friendship and absolute loyalty to one another, meaning that they would always look after the needs and welfare of one another. Jonathan sealed the covenant by removing the robe he was wearing and gave it to David. “Robe” in this case denotes a royal robe worn by the crown prince. Therefore, when Jonathan gave this robe to David to wear, it equaled Jonathan renouncing his claim to the throne. Jonathan also gave to David his military tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt, thus symbolizing that the two soldiers had indeed 3

become knit together in a unique relationship. Together, these gifts represented Jonathan’s willingness to relinquish his hopes for his father’s throne, to acknowledge the Lord’s choice, and to express his loyalty to David. Why would Jonathan willingly forfeit to David his right to rule over Israel? Obviously, Jonathan trusted in David’s abilities as a leader. Although the Scriptures do not state it plainly, David and Jonathan seem to have enjoyed the kind of transparency in their relationship where nothing would have been hidden from the other. Just as Jonathan laid aside his right to royalty, Jesus has done the same for His children. Jesus laid aside His own robes of glory to come to the earth in order to die for us (Phil. 2:5-8). Jesus proved His uncommon love for us through the cross. Through the cross and His resurrection, Jesus established a covenant through which we might be clothed in His robes of righteousness. God’s covenant with His followers helps us to understand how we should establish covenant relationships with others. This covenant love causes us to hunger after union with God and His people and binds believers together in life and purpose. Covenant love finds expression in a variety of ways stemming from the willingness to deny self completely.

DISCUSS: Question #2 (PSG, p. 29): What are the benefits of having your “soul knit” to someone else in friendship? (Alternate: What are practical ways to demonstrate selflessness in our friendships?)

TRANSITION: “In the next verses we will observe Jonathan’s expression of commitment and loyalty as he defended his friend David in a conversation with his father, King Saul.”

STUDY THE BIBLE

1 Samuel 19:4-7 4 Jonathan spoke well of David to his father Saul. He said to

him: “The king should not sin against his servant David. He hasn’t sinned against you; in fact, his actions have been a

1 Samuel 19:4-7 10 minutes READ: Read or ask a volunteer to read 1 Samuel 19:4-7.

great advantage to you. 5 He took his life in his hands when he struck down the

Philistine, and the Lord brought about a great victory for all

OPTIONAL ACTIVITY: Lead members of the group to

Israel. You saw it and rejoiced, so why would you sin against

create a list of “good friend

innocent blood by killing David for no reason?”

traits.” Then, as a group,

6 Saul listened to Jonathan’s advice and swore an oath: “As

determine the top three most important traits of a friend.

surely as the Lord lives, David will not be killed.”

Compare these three traits

7 So Jonathan summoned David and told him all these

with those we see in Jonathan

words. Then Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he served him as he did before.

and David and how those traits affected their friendship.

31

THE POINT

Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.

GUIDE: Refer group members to PSG page 30 and review what the philosopher Aristotle observed about the three kinds of friendship. 1. Useful friendships. 2. Friendships derived from pleasure. 3. Perfect friendships. Encourage group members to share thoughts that reinforce these observations.

GUIDE: Refer group members to PSG page 31 to the list of times Saul attempted to place David in harms way: • Saul threw his own spear at David twice (18:10-11; 19:9-10). • Saul required that David pass a test to pay the “bride-price” for marrying his daughter Michal. In truth, Saul was setting a trap, expecting David would be killed; however, David passed Saul’s test two times over (18:20-29). • Saul tried to convince his own son Jonathan and his servants to kill David (19:1).

32

S e ss i o n 2

Strong friends serve as advocates for each other. Because of David’s popularity with both the army and the people, Saul considered David a serious threat to his throne. Driven by his insane, paranoid jealousy, Saul continued to plot David’s assassination or to scheme so that the Philistines would kill him in battle (1 Sam. 18:10-29). Saul’s fear consumed him as every attempt on David’s life failed. Saul had acted so wickedly for so long that his heart had hardened beyond repentance. His jealousy and bitter animosity escalated his hatred for David. Jonathan might not have been aware of his father’s previous attempts on David’s life. However, when Saul abandoned his cloak and dagger tactics and ordered his servants, and even Jonathan, to kill David, the king left no reason to doubt his intentions (19:1). So Jonathan warned David of the assassination plot (vv. 2-3). When someone supports us the way Jonathan stood by David, it means a great deal to us. However, the true test of strength in the relationship becomes fully realized only when the person advocates for us when we are not around. Verses 4-5. Jonathan’s covenant commitment was apparent as he shared information with David about Saul’s schemes and when he spoke well of David to his father Saul. Jonathan’s actions did not come without great risk to himself, thus demonstrating the depth of his commitment to David. As David hid in the field, Jonathan modestly yet boldly pointed out to Saul the grievous wickedness involved in his conduct toward David. In declaring, “He hasn’t sinned against you,” Jonathan delivered a needed word of correction to his father. He urged Saul to reverse his conspiracy to kill David by reminding his father about the great service David had performed. Saul knew that David had struck down the Philistine. But in his twisted mind, Saul thought David had done that so he could become famous and take the throne. By pointing out that David’s actions have been a great advantage to Saul, Jonathan underscored David’s loyalty to Saul by attempting to bring his father back to reality. He reminded Saul that David’s actions had always benefited Saul. Furthermore, Jonathan suggested to him that, when David had taken his life in his hands when he struck down Goliath, Saul had rejoiced just like everyone else. David’s defeat of Goliath had motivated the Israelites to rout 4

the Philistines. Jonathan pointed out the undeniable fact that Saul knew: the Lord was with David. Therefore, to act in a hostile manner, Saul would have committed a terrible evil against innocent blood by killing David for no reason. In the covenant relationship that God the Father initiates with His followers through Jesus Christ, we have an advocate (1 John 2:1). Jonathan advocated for David before his father Saul. In an even more powerful way, Jesus advocates for us in the presence of God. When Satan accuses us, he gets nowhere because our Advocate speaks for us. But unlike Jonathan who pointed out David’s good qualities and attributes, Jesus advocates for us by putting our sins under His blood. Having sinned implies that we need forgiveness because only a guilty person can be forgiven. Jesus, our Advocate, not only forgives our sin, but He justifies us before the Father. Therefore, Satan cannot make a case against us at all, because our sins have been eliminated through Jesus’ blood. Verses 6-7. For the moment, Jonathan’s words made at least a temporary impression on Saul as he listened to Jonathan’s advice. This took real humility for Saul. He could have easily said, “I’m king, and I’m right on this. I don’t care what you say.” However, Saul heeded the voice of Jonathan and pledged not to kill David. By swearing an oath, “As surely as the Lord lives,” showed that God had genuinely touched Saul’s heart. God had used Jonathan as the instrument of His work—it was not the work of Jonathan. God had stirred Saul’s heart and Saul recognized it by declaring this oath. Knowing the end of the story, Saul’s promise seems hollow to us. Although Saul soon changed his mind, the promise, “as surely as the Lord lives, David will not be killed,” would remain accurate. Yet it would have nothing to do with Saul because he kept trying to kill David. The heart change in Saul would last only momentarily, for if good thoughts ever came into his wicked heart, they did not last. God Himself would protect David from Saul’s evil intent. So Jonathan had played the major role in interceding and protecting David. Having negotiated the reconciliation, he summoned David and told him of his success. Jonathan then accompanied David back to Saul’s royal household, where he served him as he did before. At least for a little while, Jonathan, the one who had the most to gain from David’s death, had successfully stood in the gap for David, which would spare him from Saul’s attacks. Jonathan’s example of loyalty provides us with a good model for our relationships with our friends. Strong friends will serve as advocates for one another.

SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 4 on page 32 and this page to show how Jonathan took the initiative to be an advocate for David with his father the king.

SAY: “Jonathan’s example of loyalty provides us with a good model for our relationships with our friends. Strong friends will serve as advocates for one another.”

DISCUSS: Question #3 (PSG, p. 32): What are practical ways we can serve as advocates for our friends? (Alternate: How does thinking of Jesus as your Advocate impact the way you view Him?)

TRANSITION: ”While this appeared to resolve the evil intentions of King Saul to kill David, it sadly was not the case. In the next passage, Jonathan once again proved his loyalty to David as he devised a plan to keep David safe before he spoke to his father.”

33

THE POINT

Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.

STUDY THE BIBLE 1 Samuel 20:10-13 15 minutes SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 5 to

1 Samuel 20:10-13 10 So David asked Jonathan, “Who will tell me if your father

answers you harshly?” 11 He answered David, “Come on, let’s go out to the

countryside.” So both of them went out to the countryside.

summarize the background

12 “By the Lord, the God of Israel, I will sound out my father

information that describes

by this time tomorrow or the next day. If I find out that he is

events leading up to this passage and provides the context for this passage.

favorable toward you, will I not send for you and tell you? 13 If my father intends to bring evil on you, may God punish

Jonathan and do so severely if I do not tell you and send you READ: Read or ask a volunteer

away so you may leave safely. May the Lord be with you, just

to read 1 Samuel 20:10-13.

as he was with my father.

GUIDE: Refer group members

Strong friends maintain and fulfill their commitment to each other.

to PSG page 33 to Jonathan’s bold declarations to David: 1. Jonathan prayed that the Lord would punish him if he did not protect David as he had promised. This statement demonstrated his complete integrity toward David. 2. Jonathan prayed that the Lord would be with David as He had been with Saul. This bold declaration affirmed Jonathan’s willingness to sacrifice everything, including his claim to the throne, for his friend.

34

S e ss i o n 2

5 David had no reason to doubt Saul’s resolve to kill him. He had to leave. However, this meant leaving behind his best friend. David and Jonathan had sworn an oath of friendship that they would always remain friends. In this time of crisis, Jonathan’s loyalty would undergo a severe testing. David went to Jonathan to find out why Saul wanted to kill him (1 Sam. 20:1-3). David knew the truth and suggested Saul had concealed some information from Jonathan because of his close relationship with David. He proposed a passive plan by which Jonathan could learn the truth (vv. 4-8). By not attending the regular monthly dinner engagement with Saul, David knew Saul would notice his absence and ask about it. If Saul responded favorably to Jonathan’s explanation, it would mean Saul was at peace with David and David would have no reason to fear. If, however, Saul reacted in an angry outburst, then Jonathan would know Saul’s resolve to kill David.

Verse 10. Jonathan’s loyalty demanded an unbreakable friendship and a spirit of brotherly love. David further laid out the details of his plans to prove his charge against Saul to Jonathan. David specifically asked Jonathan, “Who will tell me if your father answers you harshly?” concerning David’s absence at the banquet. Verse 11. By now Jonathan appeared to have grasped the possibility that David’s claim might have merit. Rather than immediately answering David’s question, Jonathan said, “Come on. Let’s go out to the countryside.” If Saul truly wanted to kill David, they had to guard their conversation. They went where curious eyes and finely tuned ears could not discern what they said. Should someone have overheard their conversation and reported it to Saul, Jonathan’s life would have been endangered too. Verses 12-13. Jonathan swore an oath promising to report Saul’s state of mind to David. He pledged his loyalty, promising to send word if Saul spoke favorably about David. If Saul intended “to bring evil on” David, Jonathan would bring warning. To affirm his loyalty, Jonathan pronounced a curse on himself if he betrayed David. Then Jonathan offered a blessing upon David, “May the Lord be with you, just as he was with my father,” a blessing that acknowledged David as the future king of Israel. In the spiritual relationship between David and Jonathan, sometimes David seemed stronger spiritually while at other times, Jonathan showed more strength. But no matter what, their bond could not be broken. Strong friends maintain and fulfill their commitment to each other no matter the severity of the circumstances. God loves and cares for His people; therefore, He often places people in our lives who will encourage and assist us during times of difficulty. Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time.” Most of us know about “fair-weather” friends who abandon us when problems arise. True friends stay the course through all of life’s ups and downs, no matter what the situation. When trouble comes, we find out who our true friends are. Regrettably, people often disappoint us. They fail to keep their commitments. However, Jesus will never let us down. He lived a perfect, sinless life. He demonstrated His faithfulness by going to the cross on our behalf to secure a once-for-all covenant. We will never earn right standing with God, but by trusting in the work of Christ done on our behalf, we can enter into a covenant relationship with God that has no end. 6

DISCUSS: Question #4 (PSG, p. 33): What is your reaction to Jonathan choosing loyalty to David over his father?

SUMMARIZE: Use Bible Commentary 6 to show the deep loyalty Jonathan had to David. Conclude the session by highlighting once again the strength of the bond between these two friends. Remind group members that true friends stay the course and are faithful in all circumstances.

DISCUSS: Question #5 (PSG, p. 34): What can we learn about true friendship from the story of David and Jonathan? (Alternate: How did David and Jonathan fulfill their commitments?)

DO: Encourage group members to take a few minutes to complete the activity “Friends Forever” on PSG page 34.

35

THE POINT

Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.

LIVE IT OUT 5 minutes GUIDE: Emphasize The Point: Strong friendships thrive because of shared commitment.

REVIEW: Review Live It Out (PSG, p. 35; see text to the right). Encourage each group member to follow through this week with at least one of the applications.

WRAP IT UP GUIDE: Emphasize that true friendship is a rare and precious gift that should be treasured. True friendship requires commitment and loyalty no matter the circumstances.

PRAY: ”Father, help us to remain faithful as true friends in every situation. Help us to learn from the friendship of Jonathan and David and follow their example of extreme loyalty.”

36

S e ss i o n 2

LIVE IT OUT How will you let the commitment of Jonathan and David influence your friendships this week?

>> Say thanks to a friend. If you have a friend who has

stuck by you through everything you’ve faced, thank that person. Thank God for this friend, and let your friend know of your prayers.

>> Seek to be a friend to others. Follow the example

of Jonathan and David—and even more of Christ—to demonstrate a sacrificial kind of friendship to others. Seek to be this kind of friend to those God has placed in your life.

>> Renew a friendship. If you have a friend you have

let down in past years or did not stand with during a difficult period, seek to restore that friendship. Let Christ be seen and honored as you return to being the kind of friend He calls you to be.

Jonathan’s faithfulness and loyalty as a friend are evident in four encounters between ILLUSTRATOR PHOTO/ LOUISE KOHL SMITH (33/26/18)

Jonathan and David described in Scripture. In 1 Samuel 18:1-4, Jonathan established his friendship with David by demonstrating a spirit of generosity by giving David his robe, armor, sword, bow, and belt. Jonathan’s

SHARING THE GOOD NEWS “No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Jesus laid down His for us. He died for us and will bring us into a full relationship with God when we place our faith and trust in Him.

successful intervention between

Each week, make yourself

Beth-shan lies some four miles west of the Jordan River. To further humiliate King Saul and his sons, the Philistines displayed their bodies by hanging them on the city walls at the city of Beth-shan, where a temple to the Ashtaroth was located.

Saul and David, resulting in David’s

available either before or after

return to Saul’s house, showed not

the session to speak privately

only Jonathan’s commitment to

with anyone in your group

David but also Jonathan’s wisdom

who wants to know more

in recognizing the benefits David

about becoming a Christian.

Jonathan was the oldest son of

brought to Saul.

See the article, “Leading Someone to the Greatest

Israel’s King Saul, heir apparent to

Jonathan’s submission and

the throne. He commanded one

obedience to the will of God is the

Decision of All,“ on page 2 for

third of Israel’s standing army at

final character trait demonstrated

guidance in leading a person

the beginning of his father’s reign.

in Scripture. In 1 Samuel 23:15-18,

to Christ.

His name means “Yahweh gave.”

Jonathan encouraged David by

Jonathan’s actions revealed

assuring him he (David) would be

his character and temperament

king over Israel, and he pledged to

(1 Sam. 13–31). Jonathan displayed

David his allegiance by making a

courage and bravery when he

covenant before the Lord.

attacked Philistine outposts in Geba (13:3) and Micmash (14:1-14), resulting in a great victory.

The excerpt above is from the article “Jonathan: All We Know” (Summer 2016), which relates to this session. More Biblical Illustrator articles are available that relate to this session. See page 7 about Biblical Illustrator.

Remind group members that page 2 in the PSG offers guidance in how to become a Christian. Encourage believers to consider using this article as they have opportunities to lead others to Christ.

Grow with other group leaders at the Groups Ministry blog. LifeWay.com/GroupMinistry 37

JONATHAN: A FORGOTTEN HERO BY JOSEPH BECKLER

Jonathan is a hero whom we tend to forget in the midst of Israel’s unfolding history. First Samuel, the Old Testament record that captures Jonathan’s story, brilliantly tells about Samuel, Saul, and David. Yet, woven into the story line of these prominent leaders, we find Jonathan, the son of King Saul. Readers might describe his life with terms such as courage, loyalty, military skill, submission, and bravery. At other times, though, he appeared frustrated, hurt, and angry. Although his story is not the main theme of 1 Samuel, Jonathan was a crucial and strategic part of God’s plan for Israel.

38

BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE

Who Was Jonathan? Jonathan’s name literally means “The Lord gave.” He was Saul’s oldest son. His mother’s name was Ahinoam. His brothers were Abinadab, Malchishua, and Ishbosheth. His sisters were Merab and Michal. His son was Mephibosheth.1 What we know about Jonathan starts with descriptions of military courage in 1 Samuel 13. Being the king’s eldest son, Jonathan received leadership responsibility for half of the military troops, with Saul keeping the other half under his leadership. Jonathan took his troops to attack a Philistine garrison (or governor2). This attack initiated a showdown between Israel and the Philistines. First Samuel 13–14 records Saul mustering the Israelites for war and then waiting with a sense of hesitancy. Jonathan, however, appeared anxious and ready to attack. Despite the military weakness of Israel’s troops, Jonathan saw God as the giver and taker of military victory. While contemplating a two-man assault on a Philistine outpost, Jonathan proclaimed to his armor bearer, “Perhaps the Lord will help us. Nothing can keep the Lord from saving, whether by many or by few” (1 Sam. 14:6).3 Scripture reveals that Jonathan exhibited trust and confidence in his God. This was in contrast to his father Saul, who seemed uncertain and insecure toward God, especially on the battlefield.4

ILLUSTRATOR PHOTO/ BOB SCHATZ (9/21/7)

Jonathan, being a courageous warrior, was likely an underlying reason for much of Saul’s military success.5 Jonathan’s military skill and courage certainly influenced his approval of David. Jonathan was impressed with the warrior stamina of this young man, who defeated Goliath with faith in God and a sling. David, unlike Saul understood that God was the conqueror of Israel’s enemies. This, no doubt, resonated with Jonathan, who knew that the Israelites’ battles hinged on the Lord’s power.6

Jonathan led 1,000 soldiers to defeat the Philistines at Gibeah (1 Sam. 13:2-3)

BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE

39

Why Didn’t Jonathan Assert His Right to Be the Future King of Israel? Jonathan’s role was complicated by the fact he maintained loyalty to Saul, his father and Israel’s king. At the same time, he loved and protected David, whom Saul perceived to be his chief political threat. King Saul tragically lost God’s blessing (see 15:26), and he certainly worried that David threatened Jonathan’s succession of kingship. Saul confirmed this fear when he cried out, “Every day Jesse’s son [meaning David] lives on earth you [meaning Jonathan] and your kingship are not secure” (20:31). Jonathan saw things differently. He appeared to be at peace with David’s destiny as the next king. To understand this, one must reach back to the battle scene at Michmash (see 1  Sam.  14). After Jonathan and his armor bearer successfully raided a Philistine outpost at Michmash, Israel’s enemies were thrown into confusion. Saul, zealous for a victory, called down a rash oath on his soldiers, saying, “The man who eats food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies is cursed” (v. 24). Unaware of this oath, Jonathan ate some honey as he pursued the Philistines. Later, when one of Israel’s soldiers revealed that an Israelite had violated the oath, Saul vowed to keep his promise—namely to kill the man who had violated the oath . . . even if it were his own son! When the king discovered that Jonathan had unknowingly broken the oath, Saul intended to kill him; but the Israelite soldiers protested, preventing Jonathan’s death. But the curse of Saul was, nonetheless, never lifted from his son. This curse, in Jonathan’s mind, was an indicator of his father’s lack of credibility as king. As well, this curse affected Jonathan’s capacity to envision himself as a future king.7

Bronze arrowhead; cast; similar to weapons used at the time of David; for example, when David and Jonathan planned meeting in a field they used arrows as a signal: “And I will shoot three arrows to the side …” (1 Sam. 20:20).

40

BIBLE STUDIES FOR LIFE

Marked by the curse, Jonathan knew that another was destined to be king. This is evident in the scene of 1 Samuel 18:3‑4 where Jonathan gave David his robe, belt, bow, and sword. These gifts were markers of Jonathan’s status as a prince.8 Giving them to David was a sign of Jonathan bestowing the political right of kingship on David.9 In Jonathan’s story we see an increase in his loyalty and love for David. At the same time, the level of estrangement between himself and his father also increased. Jonathan, on two distinct occasions, pleaded for David. At one point, his petition succeeded (see 19:1‑7). But on the second occasion, Jonathan angered his father to such a degree that Saul not only tried to kill him but also issued a second curse on Jonathan: “You son of a perverse and rebellious woman! Don’t I know that you are siding with Jesse’s son to your own shame and to the disgrace of your mother?” (20:30). In so many words, Saul humiliated and hurt Jonathan, saying he was a “bastard”!10 Ironically, Saul, who desperately wanted Jonathan to be king, was the very one who consistently cursed his son and pushed him away from kingship.

What Was Jonathan’s Legacy for Israel?

Ultimately, Jonathan’s

To the very end, Jonathan lived a complicated life. He loved David, God’s anointed one, who was destined for kingship. At the same time, he stood loyal to his father, who hated David! This allegiance to family and Israel ultimately carried Jonathan to the battlefield one last time, along with his father and brothers. At Mount Gilboa, Jonathan was slain in a battle he probably knew, like his father, would be his last (see 1 Sam. 31; 2 Sam. 1).

legacy was his willingness to pursue what was right for the future of Israel.

David’s very own lament for Jonathan shows a deep sense of gratitude for his lost friend (2 Sam. 1:17‑27). David sang a lament for both King Saul and Jonathan, called “The Song of the Bow.” Though the lament is for both men, the song clearly concludes in honoring Jonathan.11 David sang: How the mighty have fallen in the thick of battle! Jonathan lies slain on your heights. I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother. You were such a friend to me. Your love for me was more wondrous than the love of women. (vv. 25‑26) Ultimately, Jonathan’s legacy was his willingness to pursue what was right for the future of Israel. He was wise enough to recognize that self-preservation was not his chief aim. Instead, he saw David as God’s anointed and wanted God’s best for Israel’s future. Indeed, such heroes are easily lost in the story as larger, more important characters outshine them. But we must not forget Jonathan. His love, courage, and loyalty helped Israel come into its own golden age, as David took the throne. I

1. Omer J. Hancock, “Jonathan” in Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary, gen. ed. Chad Brand, Charles Draper, and Archie England (Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 2003), 1505-1506. 2. See 1 Samuel 13:4 footnote on use of “garrison” in Holman Christian Standard Bible. 3. All Scripture quotations are taken from the Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. 4. P. Kyle McCarter, The Anchor Bible: 1 Samuel (New York: Doubleday, 1980), 242; Ronald F. Youngblood, “1 and 2 Samuel” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 3 (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1992), 662. 5. Youngblood, “1 and 2 Samuel,” 660. 6. Observe the similarity between Jonathan’s words to his armor bearer in 1 Samuel 14:6 with David’s words in 1 Samuel 17:37. 7. McCarter, The Anchor Bible: 1 Samuel, 252. 8. Youngblood, “1 and 2 Samuel,” 707; See also McCarter, The Anchor Bible: 1 Samuel, 305. 9. This was in contrast to an earlier scene where King Saul offered armor to David (see 1 Sam. 17:38-39). David refused Saul’s armor, but he didn’t refuse the gifts from Jonathan. Jonathan, slated in his family line for kingship, knew he was not the future king. The prince’s robe belonged to David. Jonathan affirmed through his gifts an understanding that David would rightfully be the next king. See Youngblood, “1 and 2 Samuel,” 707. 10. Ibid., 724. 11. David would show honor to Jonathan long after his death. In one way, he kept his word to his deceased friend by protecting and caring for Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth. As well, David had the bones of Saul and Jonathan moved to the land of Benjamin, the land of Saul’s father Kish. Such an act was to honor the former king and as well as to honor Jonathan. “Jonathan” in Nelson’s Illustrated Bible Dictionary, ed. F. F. Bruce, R. K. Harrison, Ronald Youngblood, and Kermit Ecklebarger (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1986), 591.

This is an edited version of the article by Joseph Beckler that originally appeared in the Spring 2008 issue of Biblical Illustrator magazine. Each quarter Biblical Illustrator offers in-depth articles and information that support our weekly Bible study lessons. You can subscribe to Biblical Illustrator by going to www.lifeway. com/biblicalillustrator, by using your church’s quarterly literature order form, or by calling 1-800-458-2772.

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