1 Samuel 24:20

Now I know for sure that you will be king, and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hands.

Study Bible

Now I know for sure
This phrase indicates a moment of realization and certainty. Saul, the current king, acknowledges a divine revelation or understanding. This moment is significant as it marks a turning point in Saul's perception of David, moving from seeing him as a threat to recognizing his future role. This acknowledgment can be seen as a fulfillment of God's earlier anointing of David through the prophet Samuel (1 Samuel 16:13).

that you will be king
Saul's admission that David will be king is a prophetic acknowledgment of God's will. Despite Saul's previous attempts to kill David, he now concedes to the divine plan. This reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and the idea that His purposes will prevail despite human opposition. It also connects to the Davidic Covenant, where God promises David an everlasting dynasty (2 Samuel 7:16).

and that the kingdom of Israel
The reference to the "kingdom of Israel" highlights the united monarchy under Saul, which David will inherit and expand. This period is crucial in Israel's history as it transitions from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized kingdom. David's reign will bring about significant political and religious developments, including the establishment of Jerusalem as the capital.

will be established in your hands
The phrase "established in your hands" signifies the stability and security that David's leadership will bring to Israel. It implies divine endorsement and empowerment, as seen in David's military successes and his role in unifying the nation. This stability is a precursor to the peace and prosperity experienced during Solomon's reign. David's kingship is also a type of Christ, foreshadowing Jesus' eternal reign as the King of Kings, bringing ultimate peace and justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Anointed by God to be the future king of Israel, David is a central figure in this passage. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his respect for Saul, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, Saul is in pursuit of David due to jealousy and fear of losing his throne. In this passage, Saul acknowledges David's future as king.

3. The Wilderness of En Gedi
A rugged, desert area where David and his men were hiding from Saul. It is here that David spares Saul's life, demonstrating his integrity and trust in God's timing.

4. The Cave
The specific location within En Gedi where David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose to spare him, cutting off a corner of Saul's robe instead.

5. The Kingdom of Israel
The nation over which Saul currently reigns and which David is prophesied to rule. This passage foreshadows the transition of power from Saul to David.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
Trust in God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem unfavorable. David's patience and faith in God's promise are exemplary.

Integrity and Respect for Authority
David's respect for Saul, despite Saul's unjust actions, teaches us to honor those in authority, trusting God to handle justice.

Forgiveness and Mercy
David's choice to spare Saul's life demonstrates the power of forgiveness and mercy, aligning with Christ's teachings.

Prophetic Fulfillment
Saul's acknowledgment of David's future kingship highlights the fulfillment of God's promises, encouraging believers to trust in God's word.

Humility and Repentance
Saul's admission of David's future role as king shows a moment of humility, reminding us of the importance of recognizing God's will over our own desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Saul in the cave reflect his faith in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing difficult situations?

2. In what ways does David's respect for Saul, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him, challenge us to honor those in authority, even when they are unjust?

3. How does the interaction between David and Saul in this passage illustrate the biblical principle of loving and forgiving our enemies?

4. What can we learn from Saul's acknowledgment of David's future kingship about recognizing and submitting to God's will in our lives?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in the fulfillment of God's promises, and what other biblical examples can we draw from to strengthen our faith in God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
This chapter describes David's anointing by Samuel, setting the stage for his future as king, which Saul acknowledges in 1 Samuel 24:20.

Psalm 57
Written by David when he fled from Saul in the cave, this psalm reflects David's trust in God and his deliverance from his enemies.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving your enemies is exemplified by David's actions towards Saul, showing mercy and forgiveness.