1 Samuel 19:2

so he warned David, saying, "My father Saul intends to kill you. Be on your guard in the morning; find a secret place and hide there.

Study Bible

so he warned David, saying
Jonathan, Saul's son, demonstrates loyalty to David, his friend, despite his father's intentions. This act of warning highlights the covenantal friendship between Jonathan and David, which is a recurring theme in 1 Samuel. Jonathan's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who intercedes on behalf of others. The warning also reflects the biblical principle of speaking truth and protecting the innocent, as seen in Proverbs 31:8-9.

My father Saul intends to kill you
Saul's intent to kill David stems from jealousy and fear, as David's popularity and success in battle threaten Saul's kingship. This reflects the broader biblical theme of the struggle between God's anointed and those who oppose God's will. Saul's actions are a fulfillment of the warning given by Samuel about the behavior of a king (1 Samuel 8:11-18). This phrase also foreshadows the persecution of Christ by those in authority.

Be on your guard in the morning
The morning is often a time of new beginnings in the Bible, but here it is a time of danger. David is advised to be vigilant, reflecting the biblical call to be watchful and prayerful (1 Peter 5:8). This vigilance is necessary because Saul's actions are unpredictable and driven by his unstable mental state, as seen in previous chapters.

find a secret place and hide there
David is instructed to find a place of refuge, which is a recurring motif in his life and writings, particularly in the Psalms (e.g., Psalm 32:7). This act of hiding is not cowardice but a strategic move to preserve his life, as David is aware of his anointing and future role as king. The concept of God as a refuge is a central theme in Scripture, pointing to the ultimate refuge found in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his loyalty and righteousness, Jonathan plays a crucial role in protecting David from Saul's wrath.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is a servant in Saul's court and a target of Saul's jealousy and anger.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly unstable and envious of David's success and popularity. His intent to kill David marks a significant turning point in his reign.

4. The Secret Place
While not a specific location, it represents a place of safety and refuge for David, highlighting the need for wisdom and caution in the face of danger.

5. The Warning
Jonathan's warning to David is an act of loyalty and friendship, demonstrating his commitment to God's chosen future king despite his father's intentions.

Teaching Points

The Value of Godly Friendship
Jonathan's loyalty to David exemplifies the importance of having friends who encourage and protect us in our walk with God.

Wisdom in Times of Danger
David's response to Jonathan's warning shows the necessity of being prudent and seeking refuge when faced with threats.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the danger, David's life is in God's hands. This teaches us to trust in God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem dire.

Courage to Stand for Righteousness
Jonathan's willingness to go against his father's wishes for the sake of righteousness challenges us to stand firm in our convictions.

The Role of Divine Providence
God's providence is evident in the protection of David, reminding us that God orchestrates events for His purposes and our good.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's warning to David demonstrate the characteristics of a true friend, and how can we apply this in our own friendships?

2. In what ways does David's response to the threat on his life reflect his faith and trust in God? How can we cultivate a similar trust in our own lives?

3. How does the relationship between Jonathan and David challenge us to prioritize God's will over familial or societal expectations?

4. What can we learn from David's need to find a "secret place" in terms of seeking refuge and safety in God during our own times of trouble?

5. How does the account of Jonathan and David encourage us to act with integrity and courage, even when it may come at a personal cost?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the loyalty and love of a true friend, which is exemplified in Jonathan's actions toward David.

Psalm 59
David wrote this psalm when Saul sent men to watch his house in order to kill him. It reflects David's trust in God as his refuge and deliverer.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving your enemies can be seen in Jonathan's actions, as he seeks to protect David despite his father's hostility.