Topical Bible: David: King of Israel: Jonathan Intercedes For

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David, the second king of Israel, is a central figure in the biblical narrative, known for his deep faith, military prowess, and complex personal life. One of the most poignant episodes in David's early life is the intercession of Jonathan, the son of King Saul, on his behalf. This event is a testament to the profound friendship and covenantal bond between David and Jonathan, as well as Jonathan's integrity and loyalty.

The backdrop of this intercession is the growing tension between David and King Saul. After David's victory over Goliath and his subsequent rise in popularity, Saul becomes increasingly jealous and fearful of David, perceiving him as a threat to his throne. This animosity is evident in 1 Samuel 18:9, where it is noted, "So from that day forward Saul kept a jealous eye on David" .

Despite Saul's hostility, Jonathan, Saul's son, forms a deep and abiding friendship with David. Their relationship is marked by mutual respect and love, as described in 1 Samuel 18:1, "After David had finished speaking with Saul, the souls of Jonathan and David were knit together, and Jonathan loved him as himself" . This bond is further solidified by a covenant they make, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:3-4.

As Saul's attempts on David's life become more overt, Jonathan finds himself in a difficult position, torn between his loyalty to his father and his love for David. In 1 Samuel 19, Saul orders Jonathan and his servants to kill David. However, Jonathan warns David of his father's intentions and devises a plan to protect him. In 1 Samuel 19:4-5, Jonathan speaks to Saul on David's behalf, saying, "Let not the king do wrong to his servant David; he has not wronged you, and what he has done has benefited you greatly. He took his life in his hands when he killed the Philistine. The LORD won a great victory for all Israel, and you saw it and were glad. Why then would you sin against innocent blood by killing David without cause?" .

Jonathan's intercession is temporarily successful, as Saul swears an oath that David will not be put to death (1 Samuel 19:6). However, Saul's resolve is short-lived, and his animosity towards David soon resurfaces. Despite this, Jonathan's actions demonstrate his unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness, as well as his willingness to stand up to his father for the sake of his friend.

The intercession of Jonathan for David is a powerful example of true friendship and loyalty. It highlights the biblical virtues of courage, integrity, and selflessness. Jonathan's willingness to risk his own standing and safety to protect David underscores the depth of their covenantal relationship and serves as a model of godly friendship.

Nave's Topical Index

1 Samuel 19:1-7
And Saul spoke to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should kill David.
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Library

Philo of Alexandria, the Rabbis, and the Gospels - the Final ...
... it is all Israel, at its central section Israel after the ... the Son of Man, the Son
of David, the Son ... the Messiah or Anointed: the Prophet, the Priest, the King. ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/chapter iv philo of alexandria.htm

The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate,
... client's cause.-Joseph's exaltation was Israel's advantage.-God's ... and murder, and
hypocrisy, in David's doings; here ... up an indictment against the king; and a ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the work of jesus christ.htm

Prov. 22:06 the Duties of Parents
... David was an over-indulgent father, father who let his children ... direct road from
Egypt to Canaan, yet Israel was not ... repent; it is the word of the King of kings ...
/.../the upper room being a few truths for the times/chapter xvi prov 22 6 the.htm