What does Jonathan's plan reveal about his understanding of Saul's intentions? Setting the scene 1 Samuel 20 opens with David fleeing from Naioth, convinced Saul wants him dead (1 Samuel 19:10–11). Jonathan, still hoping the danger is exaggerated, agrees to a test. Verse 6 records the heart of their plan: “‘If your father misses me at all, say, “David urgently requested my permission to hurry to Bethlehem, his hometown, because an annual sacrifice is being made there for his entire clan.”’ ” What Jonathan’s plan tells us about his reading of Saul’s heart • He expects Saul to notice David’s absence immediately. – Saul’s obsession with David has already shown up (1 Samuel 18:11; 19:1). • He anticipates a volatile reaction. – The plan hinges on Saul’s anger revealing murderous intent (1 Samuel 20:7, 33). • He knows Saul respects outward piety. – An “annual sacrifice” provides a believable excuse because Saul values ceremonial observance (compare 1 Samuel 13:9–12). • He realizes David needs concrete proof. – Jonathan is willing to risk his own standing to obtain unmistakable evidence (1 Samuel 20:13). • He accepts that Saul’s hatred may override father-son bonds. – Jonathan prepares for the possibility that Saul will curse and even assault him (fulfilled in 1 Samuel 20:30–33). Layers of insight in the Bethlehem excuse • Family sacrifice tapped into Israel’s covenant life (Deuteronomy 12:7). Saul would find it hard to argue against clan worship. • “Urgently requested” signals David’s commitment to law-keeping—a quality Saul once praised (1 Samuel 18:5) but now resents. • The story buys David time and distance, anticipating Saul’s swift retaliation (1 Samuel 20:38–42). Cross-references that confirm Jonathan’s fears • 1 Sa 19:9–10 – Saul tries to spear David a second time. • 1 Sa 22:17–19 – Saul later slaughters priests of Nob, proving willingness to kill innocents to reach David. • Ps 59 (title) – David’s own reflection on Saul’s house-ambush, showing the danger Jonathan is testing. Why Jonathan still needs a test • Natural affection wars with grim evidence. He loves his father yet cannot ignore facts (Proverbs 20:6). • He hopes for repentance. A calm reaction would open the door for reconciliation. • He must protect David without acting on rumor: “Every matter must be established by two or three witnesses” (Deuteronomy 19:15). Take-home reflections • Love does not blind itself to evil but seeks confirmation. • True friendship risks personal loss to safeguard another’s life (John 15:13). • God exposes hidden malice so His servants can step into His providential protection (Psalm 37:32–33). |
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