1 Samuel 20:13

But if my father intends to bring evil on you, then may the LORD punish me, and ever so severely, if I do not tell you and send you on your way in safety. May the LORD be with you, just as He has been with my father.

Study Bible

But if my father intends to harm you
This phrase reveals the deep concern Jonathan has for David's safety. The Hebrew root for "harm" (רָעַע, ra'a) implies not just physical harm but also moral and spiritual wrongdoing. Jonathan's loyalty to David over his own father, King Saul, underscores the biblical principle of prioritizing righteousness and God's will over familial ties when they conflict. Historically, this reflects the tension in Saul's court and the dangerous political climate David navigated.

may the LORD deal with Jonathan
Here, Jonathan invokes a solemn oath, calling upon the LORD (YHWH) to hold him accountable. The Hebrew word for "deal" (עָשָׂה, asah) suggests an active, purposeful action by God. This reflects the seriousness with which oaths were taken in ancient Israel, where invoking God's name was a binding commitment. Jonathan's willingness to face divine retribution highlights his integrity and the sacredness of his promise to David.

be it ever so severely
This phrase emphasizes the gravity of Jonathan's oath. The Hebrew idiom used here (כֹּה יַעֲשֶׂה, koh ya'aseh) is a common biblical expression for invoking a curse upon oneself if a promise is broken. It underscores the depth of Jonathan's commitment and the seriousness with which he views his covenant with David, reflecting the high value placed on faithfulness and truth in biblical ethics.

if I do not let you know and send you away safely
Jonathan promises to inform David of any danger and ensure his safety. The Hebrew word for "safely" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses peace, completeness, and welfare. This reflects the biblical theme of God's providence and protection over His chosen ones. Jonathan's role as a protector foreshadows the peace and security that God promises to those who trust in Him.

May the LORD be with you
This blessing invokes God's presence and favor upon David. The Hebrew concept of God "being with" someone (עִמָּנוּ, immanu) signifies divine support and guidance. This reflects the biblical assurance that God is with His people, guiding and sustaining them through trials. Jonathan's blessing acknowledges David's future as God's anointed king, affirming God's ongoing presence in his life.

as He has been with my father
Jonathan references God's past relationship with Saul, acknowledging the divine favor Saul once enjoyed. This comparison serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the conditional nature of His blessings, dependent on obedience and faithfulness. It also highlights the tragic decline of Saul's kingship due to disobedience, contrasting with the hope of David's future reign under God's guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. He is known for his loyalty and integrity, especially in his relationship with David.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel, and a man after God's own heart. At this point, he is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him.

3. Saul
The first king of Israel, who has become increasingly paranoid and hostile towards David, seeing him as a threat to his throne.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is invoked by Jonathan as a witness to his promise and as a source of protection for David.

5. Peace
A central theme in this verse, representing the desired outcome of Jonathan's actions and the state of well-being and safety for David.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Integrity
Jonathan exemplifies true friendship and loyalty, even when it means going against his own father. Christians are called to be loyal and uphold integrity in their relationships.

Divine Witness
Invoking the LORD as a witness to our promises underscores the seriousness of our commitments. We should be mindful of the promises we make, knowing that God is our witness.

Seeking Peace
Jonathan's desire to send David away in peace highlights the importance of seeking peace in our relationships and circumstances, aligning with the biblical call to be peacemakers.

Trust in God's Presence
Jonathan's blessing, "May the LORD be with you," reminds us of the importance of seeking God's presence and guidance in our lives, just as David did.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's loyalty to David challenge us in our own friendships and relationships today?

2. In what ways can we invoke God as a witness in our commitments and promises, and why is this important?

3. How can we actively seek peace in situations where there is conflict or potential harm, as Jonathan did for David?

4. What does it mean for us to trust in God's presence, and how can we cultivate an awareness of His presence in our daily lives?

5. How do the actions of Jonathan and David in this chapter reflect the teachings of Jesus on love and friendship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 31:49
The Mizpah benediction, where Laban and Jacob call upon God to watch between them when they are apart, similar to Jonathan's invocation of the LORD as a witness.

Proverbs 17:17
Speaks of a friend who loves at all times, reflecting Jonathan's steadfast loyalty to David.

Matthew 5:9
Jesus' teaching on peacemakers, which aligns with Jonathan's desire to ensure David's safety and peace.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being laying down one's life for friends, echoing Jonathan's willingness to risk his own safety for David.