1 Samuel 19:7

So Jonathan summoned David and told him all these things. Then Jonathan brought David to Saul to serve him as he had before.

Study Bible

So Jonathan summoned David
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, plays a crucial role as a mediator between his father and David. His actions demonstrate loyalty and friendship, reflecting the covenant made between Jonathan and David in 1 Samuel 18:3. This summoning indicates Jonathan's commitment to protect David, despite the risk to his own position and relationship with Saul. Jonathan's actions can be seen as a type of Christ, who mediates on behalf of humanity.

and told him all these things
Jonathan informs David of Saul's intentions, showing transparency and trust. This communication is vital for David's survival, as Saul's jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and God's favor have led him to plot against David. The phrase highlights the importance of truth and honesty in relationships, a theme echoed in Proverbs 27:5-6, which values open rebuke over hidden love.

Then Jonathan brought David to Saul
Jonathan's role as an intermediary is further emphasized as he attempts to reconcile David with Saul. This act of bringing David to Saul signifies a temporary restoration of peace and order. It reflects the biblical principle of peacemaking, as seen in Matthew 5:9, where peacemakers are called blessed. Jonathan's actions also foreshadow Christ's work of reconciliation between God and humanity.

and David was with Saul as before
This phrase indicates a return to the previous state of affairs, where David served in Saul's court. It suggests a temporary resolution to the conflict, though underlying tensions remain. David's presence with Saul "as before" highlights the cyclical nature of their relationship, marked by moments of peace and conflict. This situation parallels the recurring theme of God's faithfulness and the testing of His servants, as seen throughout the narratives of the Old Testament.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He plays a crucial role as a mediator between Saul and David, demonstrating loyalty and righteousness.

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

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly unstable and envious of David, seeing him as a threat to his throne.

4. The Reconciliation
Jonathan's successful attempt to reconcile Saul and David, allowing David to return to Saul's service temporarily.

5. The Court of Saul
The setting where these events unfold, highlighting the political and personal tensions within the royal household.

Teaching Points

The Role of a Peacemaker
Jonathan exemplifies the role of a peacemaker, showing that true friendship often involves mediating and advocating for others, even at personal risk.

Loyalty and Righteousness
Jonathan's loyalty to David, despite his father's animosity, highlights the importance of standing by what is right and just, even when it is difficult.

Trust in God's Plan
David's willingness to return to Saul's service, despite the danger, reflects a deep trust in God's sovereignty and timing.

The Power of Communication
Jonathan's open communication with both Saul and David underscores the importance of honest dialogue in resolving conflicts.

The Temporary Nature of Human Solutions
While Jonathan's intervention provides a temporary reprieve, it foreshadows the need for a more permanent solution, pointing to the ultimate reconciliation found in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's role as a peacemaker in 1 Samuel 19:7 inspire us to handle conflicts in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate loyalty and righteousness in our relationships, as Jonathan did with David?

3. How does David's trust in God's plan, despite the danger from Saul, challenge us to trust God in our own uncertain situations?

4. What practical steps can we take to improve communication in our relationships, following Jonathan's example?

5. How does the temporary reconciliation between Saul and David point us to the need for lasting peace through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18
Provides context for Saul's jealousy and fear of David, which sets the stage for the events in chapter 19.

Proverbs 17:17
Speaks to the loyalty and love of a true friend, exemplified by Jonathan's actions toward David.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers, which aligns with Jonathan's role in seeking peace between Saul and David.