1 Samuel 20:12

and Jonathan said, "By the LORD, the God of Israel, I will sound out my father by this time tomorrow or the next day. If he is favorable toward you, will I not send for you and tell you?

Study Bible

and Jonathan said,
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, is a key figure in the narrative of 1 Samuel. His loyalty to David, despite his father's animosity, highlights the theme of covenant friendship. Jonathan's actions reflect a deep commitment to God's will and to David, whom he recognizes as God's chosen future king.

“By the LORD, the God of Israel,
Invoking the name of the LORD, the God of Israel, Jonathan emphasizes the seriousness and sacredness of his promise. This reflects the covenantal nature of relationships in ancient Israel, where oaths were often made before God as a witness. It underscores Jonathan's faith and his acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over Israel.

I will sound out my father
Jonathan plans to discern King Saul's intentions toward David. This phrase indicates a strategic and cautious approach, as Jonathan seeks to protect David while navigating his father's volatile behavior. It reflects the tension within Saul's household and the political intrigue of the time.

by this time tomorrow or the next day.
The specific timeframe shows Jonathan's urgency and the immediacy of the situation. It also reflects the narrative's pacing, as events unfold rapidly in the story of David's rise and Saul's decline. This timeframe indicates Jonathan's commitment to act swiftly to ensure David's safety.

If he is favorable toward you,
Jonathan hopes for a positive outcome, reflecting his desire for reconciliation between Saul and David. This phrase highlights the uncertainty and danger David faces, as Saul's favor is unpredictable. It also underscores Jonathan's role as a mediator, attempting to bridge the gap between his father and his friend.

will I not send for you and tell you?
Jonathan assures David of his loyalty and intention to communicate the outcome. This promise of communication is crucial for David's survival, as it allows him to make informed decisions. It also demonstrates Jonathan's integrity and the trust between him and David, which is a central theme in their relationship.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. At this point, he is a fugitive, fleeing from King Saul's attempts to kill him.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who becomes increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, seeing him as a threat to his throne.

4. The LORD, the God of Israel
The covenant God of Israel, invoked by Jonathan as a witness to his promise to David.

5. The Field
The setting of this conversation, where Jonathan and David meet to discuss Saul's intentions and plan David's safety.

Teaching Points

The Power of Covenant Friendship
Jonathan and David's relationship is a model of covenant friendship, characterized by loyalty, sacrifice, and mutual support. In our lives, we should seek to build relationships that reflect these values.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Jonathan's commitment to David, even at the risk of his own standing with his father, teaches us the importance of being faithful to our friends, especially in times of adversity.

Seeking God's Guidance
Jonathan invokes the LORD as a witness to his promise, reminding us to seek God's guidance and blessing in our commitments and decisions.

Courage to Stand for Righteousness
Jonathan's willingness to confront his father and protect David demonstrates the courage required to stand for righteousness, even when it is difficult.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the danger, both Jonathan and David trust in God's sovereignty over their lives. We are encouraged to trust God’s plan, even when circumstances seem uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us in our own friendships? Can you think of a time when you had to stand by a friend in difficult circumstances?

2. In what ways can we seek God's guidance in our relationships and commitments, as Jonathan did?

3. How does the concept of covenant friendship in the Bible compare to modern-day friendships? What can we learn from Jonathan and David's relationship?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate courage and stand for righteousness in our daily lives, as Jonathan did?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty, especially when facing uncertain or challenging situations? Can you relate this to another biblical account or teaching?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the deep bond of friendship between Jonathan and David, highlighting the covenant they made with each other.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is exemplified in Jonathan's actions towards David.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, a principle that Jonathan embodies in his willingness to protect David.