1 Samuel 20:17

And Jonathan had David reaffirm his vow out of love for him, for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself.

Study Bible

And Jonathan had David reaffirm his vow
In the context of ancient Israel, vows were solemn promises made before God, often involving a covenant. Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and David, the future king, had previously made a covenant of friendship (1 Samuel 18:3). This reaffirmation highlights the seriousness and sacredness of their bond. In biblical times, such vows were not taken lightly, as they were seen as binding before God. The reaffirmation indicates Jonathan's commitment to David despite his father Saul's hostility. This act of reaffirmation can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament teachings on the importance of keeping one's word (Matthew 5:37).

out of love for him
The Hebrew word for love used here is "ahav," which denotes deep affection and loyalty. Jonathan's love for David transcends mere friendship; it is a covenantal love that reflects the selfless and sacrificial nature of true biblical love. This love is reminiscent of the love described in 1 Corinthians 13, which is patient, kind, and enduring. Jonathan's actions demonstrate a love that is willing to protect and support David, even at great personal cost.

for Jonathan loved David as he loved himself
This phrase echoes the commandment found in Leviticus 19:18, "Love your neighbor as yourself," which Jesus later cites as the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22:39). Jonathan's love for David is a profound example of this principle, showing a selflessness that prioritizes David's well-being over his own potential claim to the throne. This type of love is a foreshadowing of Christ's love for humanity, as Jesus taught and exemplified self-sacrificial love. Jonathan's relationship with David can be seen as a type of Christ's relationship with believers, marked by loyalty, sacrifice, and covenantal faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul, known for his deep friendship with David. He is a model of loyalty and selflessness.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is a fugitive from King Saul.

3. King Saul
The first king of Israel, who becomes increasingly hostile towards David due to jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

4. The Covenant
A solemn agreement between Jonathan and David, rooted in mutual love and respect, and a commitment to protect each other.

5. Gibeah
The location where much of the interaction between Jonathan, David, and Saul takes place.

Teaching Points

The Power of Covenant Friendship
True friendship is marked by loyalty, sacrifice, and mutual respect. Jonathan and David's relationship exemplifies a covenant friendship that goes beyond mere companionship.

Love as a Reflection of God's Love
Jonathan's love for David, "as he loved himself," reflects the biblical command to love others as oneself. This love is selfless and mirrors God's love for us.

The Role of Vows and Promises
The reaffirmation of vows between Jonathan and David underscores the importance of keeping promises and the integrity that should characterize our relationships.

Navigating Hostility with Integrity
Despite Saul's hostility, Jonathan and David maintain their integrity and commitment to each other, teaching us to uphold righteousness even in difficult circumstances.

The Impact of Godly Relationships
Godly friendships can have a profound impact on our lives, providing support, encouragement, and accountability. We should seek to cultivate such relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's love for David challenge our understanding of friendship and loyalty in today's context?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of loving others as ourselves in our daily interactions?

3. How can the covenant between Jonathan and David inspire us to be more intentional in our commitments to others?

4. What can we learn from Jonathan's actions about maintaining integrity and righteousness in the face of adversity?

5. How do the relationships we cultivate reflect our relationship with God, and how can we ensure they are honoring to Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the initial bond and covenant between Jonathan and David, highlighting the depth of their friendship.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is constant and supportive, much like Jonathan and David's relationship.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, reflecting the sacrificial nature of Jonathan's love for David.

Ruth 1:16-17
Ruth's commitment to Naomi mirrors the loyalty and devotion seen in Jonathan's commitment to David.