1 Samuel·Chapter 20

How to Apply

This week, think about someone in your life who might be feeling overlooked or mistreated. Take a moment to reach out—send a message, call them up, or even just sit down and listen. Just like Jonathan took a stand for David, you can show your support and loyalty in tangible ways. It doesn’t have to be grand; sometimes a simple act of kindness can mean the world to someone who feels alone.

Chapter Context

To fully grasp what’s happening here, let’s step back a moment. Earlier in this chapter, Jonathan learns that his father, King Saul, intends to kill David, who is not only his closest friend but also a man who has been nothing but loyal to him. This shocking revelation leaves Jonathan torn between his duty to his father and his loyalty to David. When Jonathan stands up in anger and refuses to eat, it underscores the gravity of the situation. It's a pivotal moment in the story that highlights Jonathan's commitment to friendship over familial loyalty. This act of defiance against his father's wishes serves to escalate the tension in the chapter, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• jonathan - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• rose - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• from - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• table - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• fierce - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• anger - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• ate - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• no - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• food - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• second - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When have you felt torn between loyalty to a friend and family expectations, and how did you handle it?

Related Verses

• Proverbs 17:17 - This verse talks about how friends are there for each other through thick and thin, just like Jonathan was for David.
• 1 Samuel 18:1 - Earlier in the story, it describes the deep bond of friendship between Jonathan and David, making Jonathan's anger in this verse even more poignant.
• Luke 6:31 - This verse emphasizes treating others as you want to be treated, which echoes Jonathan's protective feelings toward David.
• Isaiah 53:3 - Written about 700 years before this verse, it predicts a figure who would be rejected and hurt, much like how David is treated in this story.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 Samuel 20:34. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Verses

1 Samuel 20:3, 1 Samuel 20:13, 1 Samuel 20:15, 1 Samuel 20:17, 1 Samuel 20:42

Historical Context

1 Samuel captures the transition of Israel from a tribal confederation to a monarchy, with David emerging as a significant figure in this shift. Chapter 20 situates itself within the larger narrative of Saul's jealousy towards David, which ultimately leads to a series of conflicts. David's close relationship with Jonathan, the heir to Saul's throne, highlights the tension between familial loyalty and friendship. This chapter is crucial in establishing the covenantal bond between David and Jonathan, emphasizing the theme of loyalty across family lines, which is a recurring motif throughout the Book of Samuel. The chapter also sets the stage for David's eventual ascension as the rightful king of Israel, as it underscores the dangers he faces and the allies he must rely upon.