1 Samuel 20:40

Then Jonathan gave his equipment to the boy and said, "Go, take it back to the city."

Study Bible

Then Jonathan gave his equipment to the boy
Jonathan, the son of King Saul, is depicted here in a moment of deep friendship and loyalty to David. The "equipment" refers to his bow and arrows, which were used in the preceding verses as part of a covert signal to communicate with David. This act of giving his equipment to the boy signifies trust and delegation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a warrior's weapons were personal and significant, often symbolizing strength and status. Jonathan's willingness to part with his equipment underscores his commitment to David's safety over his own status or security. This act also prefigures the selflessness seen in Christ, who laid down His own life for His friends (John 15:13).

and said, “Go, take it back to the city.”
Jonathan instructs the boy to return to the city, which in this context is likely Gibeah, Saul's capital. This instruction is part of a carefully orchestrated plan to protect David from Saul's wrath. The city represents a place of both political power and potential danger, as Saul's intentions towards David have become increasingly hostile. Jonathan's command to the boy to return alone ensures that David remains hidden and safe. This moment highlights the theme of divine providence and protection, as God uses Jonathan's loyalty to preserve David, who is anointed to be the future king of Israel. This narrative foreshadows the ultimate protection and deliverance found in Christ, who is often seen as the greater David, fulfilling the promises of God to establish an eternal kingdom (2 Samuel 7:16).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jonathan
The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Known for his loyalty and integrity, Jonathan plays a crucial role in protecting David from Saul's wrath.

2. David
The future king of Israel, anointed by Samuel. At this point in the account, David is fleeing from King Saul, who seeks to kill him out of jealousy and fear of losing his throne.

3. The Boy
A young servant of Jonathan, tasked with retrieving the arrows as part of a prearranged signal to communicate with David.

4. The City
Refers to Gibeah, the city where King Saul's court was located and where Jonathan and his family resided.

5. The Event
This passage is part of a larger account where Jonathan and David devise a plan to determine Saul's intentions towards David. Jonathan uses the shooting of arrows as a signal to communicate whether it is safe for David to return or if he must flee.

Teaching Points

Loyalty and Friendship
Jonathan's actions demonstrate the importance of loyalty and the value of true friendship. In a world where relationships can be transactional, Jonathan's selfless support for David is a model for Christian friendship.

Courage in Adversity
Jonathan's courage in standing up to his father, King Saul, for the sake of righteousness and justice, encourages believers to stand firm in their convictions, even when it is difficult.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the danger and uncertainty, God's plan for David's future kingship is unfolding. This reminds us that God is sovereign and His purposes will prevail, even when circumstances seem dire.

Communication and Trust
The careful planning and communication between Jonathan and David highlight the importance of clear communication and trust in relationships, especially in times of crisis.

Sacrificial Love
Jonathan's willingness to risk his own safety for David's well-being is a reflection of Christ-like love, calling believers to love others sacrificially.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jonathan's relationship with David challenge us to evaluate our own friendships? What qualities should we seek to cultivate in our relationships?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate courage and integrity in our own lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions or opposition?

3. How does the account of Jonathan and David encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when His plans are not immediately clear?

4. What practical steps can we take to improve communication and build trust in our relationships, following the example of Jonathan and David?

5. How can we apply the principle of sacrificial love in our daily interactions with others, reflecting the love of Christ in our actions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 18-19
These chapters provide context for the deep friendship between Jonathan and David and the growing animosity of Saul towards David.

Proverbs 17:17
This verse speaks to the loyalty and steadfastness of a true friend, exemplified by Jonathan's actions towards David.

John 15:13
Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one's life for friends, a principle mirrored in Jonathan's willingness to protect David at great personal risk.