1 Samuel 24:20

Now I know for sure that you will be king, and that the kingdom of Israel will be established in your hands.

Study Bible

Now I know for sure
This phrase signifies a moment of revelation and certainty. In the Hebrew text, the word for "know" is "yada," which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. Saul, who speaks these words, has been pursuing David out of jealousy and fear. This acknowledgment marks a turning point, where Saul recognizes the divine will. It reflects the biblical theme that God's plans are often revealed through unexpected circumstances, and even those who oppose His will can come to recognize His sovereignty.

that you will be king
The declaration that David will be king is significant, as it confirms the divine anointing that Samuel had performed earlier in David's life (1 Samuel 16:13). The Hebrew word for "king" is "melek," which denotes not just a political leader but one who is divinely appointed to shepherd God's people. This acknowledgment by Saul, the current king, underscores the legitimacy of David's future reign and highlights the biblical principle that God raises leaders according to His purpose, often in ways that defy human expectations.

and that the kingdom of Israel
The "kingdom of Israel" refers to the united tribes under a single monarch, a concept that was still relatively new in the time of Saul and David. Historically, this period marks the transition from a loose confederation of tribes to a centralized monarchy. Theologically, it represents God's covenantal promise to establish a nation through which He would bless the world. Saul's recognition of David's future role in this kingdom underscores the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Israel.

will be established
The Hebrew root for "established" is "kun," which means to be firm, stable, or secure. This word conveys the idea of divine assurance and permanence. Saul's use of this term indicates a recognition that David's kingship is not just a temporary or human arrangement but is ordained and sustained by God. It reflects the biblical truth that what God establishes, no man can thwart, and it points to the enduring nature of God's promises.

in your hands
The phrase "in your hands" symbolizes authority and responsibility. In the ancient Near Eastern context, hands were often associated with power and action. By stating that the kingdom will be in David's hands, Saul acknowledges David's future role as the executor of God's will for Israel. This phrase also implies trust and stewardship, reminding us that leadership in God's kingdom is a sacred duty that requires faithfulness and obedience to His commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Anointed by God to be the future king of Israel, David is a central figure in this passage. He is known for his faithfulness to God and his respect for Saul, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him.

2. Saul
The first king of Israel, Saul is in pursuit of David due to jealousy and fear of losing his throne. In this passage, Saul acknowledges David's future as king.

3. The Wilderness of En Gedi
A rugged, desert area where David and his men were hiding from Saul. It is here that David spares Saul's life, demonstrating his integrity and trust in God's timing.

4. The Cave
The specific location within En Gedi where David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose to spare him, cutting off a corner of Saul's robe instead.

5. The Kingdom of Israel
The nation over which Saul currently reigns and which David is prophesied to rule. This passage foreshadows the transition of power from Saul to David.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
Trust in God's plan and timing, even when circumstances seem unfavorable. David's patience and faith in God's promise are exemplary.

Integrity and Respect for Authority
David's respect for Saul, despite Saul's unjust actions, teaches us to honor those in authority, trusting God to handle justice.

Forgiveness and Mercy
David's choice to spare Saul's life demonstrates the power of forgiveness and mercy, aligning with Christ's teachings.

Prophetic Fulfillment
Saul's acknowledgment of David's future kingship highlights the fulfillment of God's promises, encouraging believers to trust in God's word.

Humility and Repentance
Saul's admission of David's future role as king shows a moment of humility, reminding us of the importance of recognizing God's will over our own desires.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's response to Saul in the cave reflect his faith in God's sovereignty, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing difficult situations?

2. In what ways does David's respect for Saul, despite Saul's pursuit to kill him, challenge us to honor those in authority, even when they are unjust?

3. How does the interaction between David and Saul in this passage illustrate the biblical principle of loving and forgiving our enemies?

4. What can we learn from Saul's acknowledgment of David's future kingship about recognizing and submitting to God's will in our lives?

5. How does this passage encourage us to trust in the fulfillment of God's promises, and what other biblical examples can we draw from to strengthen our faith in God's word?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
This chapter describes David's anointing by Samuel, setting the stage for his future as king, which Saul acknowledges in 1 Samuel 24:20.

Psalm 57
Written by David when he fled from Saul in the cave, this psalm reflects David's trust in God and his deliverance from his enemies.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving your enemies is exemplified by David's actions towards Saul, showing mercy and forgiveness.