1 Samuel 20:7

If he says, 'Good,' then your servant is safe, but if he is enraged, you will know he has evil intentions.

Study Bible

If he says, ‘Good,’
In this context, Jonathan is speaking to David about King Saul's potential reaction to David's absence at the New Moon feast. The word "Good" here signifies approval or acceptance. In ancient Israel, the New Moon was a significant time for communal gatherings and feasting, as outlined in Numbers 10:10 and 28:11-15. Saul's positive response would indicate that he harbors no ill will towards David, suggesting a temporary peace. This reflects the cultural importance of verbal affirmations in maintaining social harmony and the weight of a king's word in determining the safety of his subjects.

then your servant is safe,
David refers to himself as Jonathan's "servant," highlighting the humility and loyalty he feels towards Jonathan, despite being anointed as the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13). This phrase underscores the covenantal friendship between Jonathan and David, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:3. The concept of safety here is not just physical but also relational, as it pertains to David's standing with Saul and his place within the royal court. The assurance of safety is a recurring theme in the Psalms, often attributed to God's protection (Psalm 4:8).

but if he is enraged,
Saul's potential anger is a critical indicator of his true intentions towards David. Saul's jealousy and fear of David's rising popularity and God's favor upon him have been building since David's victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 18:6-9). Anger in biblical terms often signifies a deeper spiritual or moral failing, as seen in Proverbs 29:22, which warns of the destructive nature of anger. Saul's rage is a manifestation of his internal struggle and rejection of God's will, contrasting with the peace and righteousness that characterize David's relationship with God.

you will know he has evil intentions.
Jonathan's plan to discern Saul's intentions reveals the gravity of the situation. The term "evil intentions" reflects the biblical understanding of evil as a deviation from God's righteous path. Saul's intent to harm David is not just a personal vendetta but a rebellion against God's anointed. This phrase connects to the broader biblical narrative of God's protection over His chosen ones, as seen in Joseph's story in Genesis 50:20, where God turns intended evil into good. It also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance and protection found in Jesus Christ, who, like David, faced opposition and yet fulfilled God's redemptive plan.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, who is currently fleeing from King Saul's wrath.

2. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David, who is caught between his loyalty to his father and his friendship with David.

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

4. The New Moon Festival
A significant religious and cultural event in ancient Israel, during which David's absence from the king's table would be noticed.

5. The Field
The location where Jonathan and David meet to discuss Saul's intentions and plan their strategy for David's safety.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Relationships
Jonathan's plan to discern Saul's intentions teaches us the importance of seeking truth and clarity in our relationships, especially when faced with potential conflict.

Loyalty and Integrity
Jonathan's loyalty to David, despite the risk to himself, exemplifies the biblical call to be faithful and true to our commitments and friendships.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
David's reliance on Jonathan's plan reflects a deeper trust in God's sovereignty and protection, reminding us to seek God's guidance in times of uncertainty.

Courage in the Face of Danger
Both David and Jonathan demonstrate courage, with David trusting Jonathan's plan and Jonathan risking his father's wrath to protect his friend.

The Cost of Friendship
True friendship often requires sacrifice and selflessness, as seen in Jonathan's willingness to put David's safety above his own interests.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's plan to discern Saul's intentions reflect the importance of wisdom and discernment in our own decision-making processes?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate loyalty and integrity in our relationships, even when it may come at a personal cost?

3. How does David's trust in Jonathan's plan encourage us to rely on God's sovereignty and the support of godly friends during challenging times?

4. What can we learn from Jonathan's courage in standing up for what is right, and how can we apply this in situations where we face opposition or danger?

5. Reflect on a time when a friendship required you to make a sacrifice. How did that experience shape your understanding of biblical friendship and love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18:1-4
This passage describes the covenant of friendship between David and Jonathan, highlighting the deep bond and loyalty that underpins their actions in 1 Samuel 20.

Proverbs 27:6
This verse speaks to the value of faithful friends, which is exemplified in Jonathan's willingness to protect David even at personal risk.

Psalm 59
A psalm attributed to David during his time of fleeing from Saul, reflecting his trust in God's protection amidst danger.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies can be seen in Jonathan's actions, as he seeks to protect David while still honoring his father, Saul.