Compare Jonathan's actions with Jesus' teachings on friendship in John 15:13. Setting the Scene Jonathan, the son of King Saul, loved David “as himself” (1 Samuel 18:1). From the moment they met, Jonathan’s choices illustrated the very heart of friendship later defined by Jesus. Jonathan’s Sacrificial Actions • 1 Samuel 18:4 – “Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, even his sword, his bow, and his belt.” – He voluntarily laid aside royal privileges so David could be equipped and honored. • 1 Samuel 19:1–3 – Jonathan risked his own standing to warn David of Saul’s murderous intent. • 1 Samuel 20:30–34 – When Saul hurled a spear at him, Jonathan endured his father’s wrath to protect David. • 1 Samuel 23:16–17 – He sought David out in the wilderness “and strengthened his hand in God,” encouraging his friend to trust the Lord. • 1 Samuel 20:42 – “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD.” Jesus’ Standard in John 15:13 John 15:13: “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” • Jesus speaks of the supreme act of friendship—self-sacrifice to the point of death. • He immediately positions Himself as the ultimate Friend (vv. 14–15) and anticipates His own cross. Points of Comparison • Self-Giving Love – Jonathan: Gave up royal garments, weapons, and the throne itself (1 Samuel 23:17). – Jesus: Gave His own life (Philippians 2:6–8). • Protection at Personal Cost – Jonathan: Faced Saul’s fury; endured potential loss of inheritance. – Jesus: Bore the wrath of God for sinners (Romans 5:8–9). • Covenant Loyalty – Jonathan: Bound himself to David in a covenant before God (1 Samuel 18:3). – Jesus: Establishes a new covenant in His blood (Luke 22:20). • Strengthening the Friend – Jonathan: “Strengthened his hand in God” (1 Samuel 23:16). – Jesus: Sends the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower His friends (John 14:16-17). Lessons for Us Today • True friendship is covenantal, not casual—rooted in commitment before God (Proverbs 17:17). • Real love chooses another’s welfare over personal advantage (1 John 3:16). • Friendship flourishes when we point one another to the Lord, as Jonathan did for David. • Jonathan’s story foreshadows and validates Jesus’ teaching; his actions give us a tangible human model of the standard Jesus perfectly fulfilled. |
    |