What does Jonathan's promise reveal about his understanding of God's will? Setting the Scene • Saul’s jealousy has pushed David into hiding. • Jonathan, Saul’s son and David’s covenant friend, seeks clarity about Saul’s intentions. • The two devise a signal, and Jonathan seals it with a solemn vow in 1 Samuel 20:13. The Promise in 1 Samuel 20:13 “But if my father intends to harm you, may the LORD deal with Jonathan, and ever so severely, if I do not tell you and send you away in peace. May the LORD be with you, just as He has been with my father.” Jonathan’s View of God’s Sovereignty • He recognizes that God, not Saul, ultimately controls Israel’s future. • By invoking “May the LORD be with you,” Jonathan acknowledges that the divine favor once resting on Saul now rests on David (1 Samuel 16:13; 18:12). • He willingly submits to this transfer, even though it costs him the throne (cf. 1 Samuel 23:17). Reverence for God’s Judgment • Jonathan calls a curse on himself: “May the LORD deal with Jonathan, and ever so severely…” • This self-imposed sanction shows he believes God actively judges oath-breakers (Deuteronomy 23:21; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5). • His fear of God outweighs fear of his father. Covenant Loyalty Over Blood Ties • Jonathan sides with God’s chosen king rather than with Saul, illustrating that ultimate allegiance belongs to God (Acts 5:29). • He mirrors Jesus’ later teaching that love for God must surpass family loyalty (Matthew 10:37). Faith in God’s Redemptive Plan • Jonathan’s words imply confidence that God’s purpose for David includes preservation and kingship (1 Samuel 13:14). • By sending David away “in peace,” he trusts God to guide David’s next steps (Psalm 121:7-8). • His blessing—“May the LORD be with you”—echoes patriarchal transitions of leadership (Joshua 1:5). Costly Obedience and Risk • Exposing Saul’s plot could brand Jonathan a traitor; yet he chooses righteousness over personal safety (Proverbs 29:25). • His obedience is active: he will inform, protect, and even relinquish his royal claim (1 Samuel 18:4). Key Insights Summarized • Jonathan believes God’s will is supreme, even above royal succession. • He trusts God’s presence will shift to whomever God chooses. • His oath shows deep reverence for God’s authority to bless or curse. • He values covenant fidelity and moral integrity over natural loyalties. • Jonathan’s promise reveals a heart aligned with God’s unfolding plan of salvation through David’s lineage. |
    |