1 Samuel 20:2

"Far from it!" Jonathan replied. "You will not die. Indeed, my father does nothing, great or small, without telling me. So why would he hide this matter from me? This cannot be true!"

Study Bible

“Far from it!” Jonathan replied.
Jonathan's response to David's fear reflects his loyalty and confidence in his father's intentions. This phrase indicates Jonathan's disbelief and his desire to reassure David. Jonathan's character is marked by faithfulness and integrity, qualities that are evident in his covenant with David (1 Samuel 18:3). His response also highlights the close relationship between Jonathan and David, which is a significant theme throughout the narrative.

“You will not die.”
Jonathan's assurance to David is a declaration of protection and trust. This statement is significant in the context of the covenant between Jonathan and David, where Jonathan pledged to support David against any threat, even from his own father, Saul. This promise foreshadows the eventual protection and deliverance David experiences throughout his life, aligning with God's overarching plan for David to become king.

Indeed, my father does nothing, great or small, without telling me.
Jonathan's assertion about his father's transparency with him underscores the close relationship he believed he had with Saul. This reflects the cultural expectation of familial loyalty and communication within royal households. However, it also reveals Jonathan's potential naivety or Saul's increasing unpredictability, as Saul's intentions towards David were becoming more hostile and secretive.

So why would he hide this matter from me?
Jonathan's rhetorical question suggests his surprise and confusion at the possibility of Saul concealing his plans. This reflects the tension between Jonathan's loyalty to his father and his friendship with David. It also highlights the theme of hidden intentions and the complexity of human relationships, which is prevalent throughout the narrative of 1 Samuel.

This cannot be true!”
Jonathan's emphatic denial indicates his struggle to reconcile his understanding of his father with the reality of Saul's actions. This phrase captures the internal conflict Jonathan faces as he navigates his dual loyalties. It also foreshadows the eventual realization and acceptance of Saul's intentions, which leads to Jonathan's continued support for David, aligning with God's plan for David's kingship.

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 the account of David's rise to kingship.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point in the account, David is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks 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 Field
The setting for the secret meeting between Jonathan and David, where they discuss Saul's intentions and plan for David's safety.

5. The Covenant
The bond of friendship and loyalty between Jonathan and David, which is central to this chapter and reflects their mutual commitment to each other's well-being.

Teaching Points

Loyalty in Friendship
Jonathan's loyalty to David, even in the face of his father's hostility, exemplifies the biblical principle of steadfast friendship. True friends support and protect each other, even when it is costly.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Despite the danger from Saul, Jonathan's confidence that David will not die reflects a trust in God's sovereign plan. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's protection and purpose, even in uncertain circumstances.

Discernment and Wisdom
Jonathan's assertion that Saul would not hide anything from him shows the importance of discernment and wisdom in relationships. We should seek to understand the intentions of others and act wisely.

Courage to Stand for Righteousness
Jonathan's courage to stand against his father's unjust intentions teaches us to stand for righteousness, even when it means opposing those in authority or those we love.

The Power of Covenant Relationships
The covenant between Jonathan and David is a powerful example of commitment and faithfulness. Believers are called to honor their commitments and uphold their promises in relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's response to David in 1 Samuel 20:2 demonstrate the qualities of a true friend, and how can we apply these qualities in our own friendships?

2. In what ways does Jonathan's confidence in David's safety reflect a trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we cultivate a similar trust in our own lives?

3. How can we practice discernment and wisdom in our relationships, as Jonathan did in understanding his father's intentions?

4. What are some practical ways we can stand for righteousness in our daily lives, even when it means going against the expectations of those around us?

5. How does the covenant between Jonathan and David inspire us to honor our commitments in our relationships, and what steps can we take to strengthen our covenant relationships today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the deep friendship and covenant between Jonathan and David, highlighting the loyalty and love that Jonathan has for David, which is evident in 1 Samuel 20:2.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the nature of true friendship, which is demonstrated by Jonathan's unwavering support for David despite the danger posed by his father, Saul.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, which parallels Jonathan's willingness to protect David at great personal risk.