1 Samuel 20:20 – “I will shoot three arrows to the side of it, as though I were shooting at a target.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Jonathan is explaining to David a signal they will use to communicate Saul’s intentions without speaking directly. Jonathan plans to shoot three arrows as though he is practicing archery, but the direction in which he shoots and the message he sends through his servant will serve as a covert way to inform David about Saul’s attitude. If Saul’s intentions are hostile, Jonathan will signal that danger is present, and David should flee. This is part of the larger plan between Jonathan and David to determine whether David’s life is in immediate danger from King Saul.

Historical Context

David, who had become a trusted member of Saul’s court and a beloved figure in Israel after defeating Goliath, found himself the target of Saul’s jealousy. Saul’s attempts to kill David forced him to flee, and Jonathan, Saul’s son and David’s closest friend, helped him navigate the dangerous situation. Jonathan and David made a covenant of loyalty, and Jonathan devised a secret plan to inform David whether or not it was safe to return to the king’s court. The shooting of the arrows was a prearranged signal that allowed them to communicate without raising suspicion from anyone loyal to Saul.

Theological Implications

Jonathan’s actions in this verse highlight the importance of loyalty, wisdom, and discretion in the midst of danger. His willingness to help David, even at the potential cost of his relationship with his father, reflects the biblical principle of standing by what is right and supporting others in their time of need. Theologically, this passage also points to the importance of trusting God’s plan even in times of uncertainty. Jonathan and David didn’t know exactly what would happen, but they prepared themselves wisely for the outcome, trusting that God would guide them through the situation.

Literary Analysis

The use of three arrows in this verse is symbolic of the urgency and precision required in this plan. Shooting arrows “as though I were shooting at a target” adds a layer of secrecy and tension to the story. The description suggests that Jonathan’s actions must appear normal to onlookers, even though the reality is that he is communicating life-or-death information to David. This method of indirect communication highlights the depth of the danger David faces and the need for careful, strategic planning in the face of opposition.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Samuel 19:2 – Jonathan warns David of Saul’s intention to kill him, which sets the stage for the continued need for covert communication between the two.
• Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” David and Jonathan’s reliance on God’s wisdom to guide them in a dangerous situation reflects this principle of trusting in God’s plan.
• Psalm 91:2 – “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” David’s decision to rely on Jonathan’s signal for his safety points to his trust in God as his ultimate protector.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse emphasizes the importance of discretion, wisdom, and careful planning in difficult circumstances. Sometimes, navigating challenges requires patience and trust in the people God places in our lives to help us. Jonathan’s method of communication with David shows how we can find ways to act wisely and avoid unnecessary confrontation while still seeking God’s guidance. This verse encourages believers to surround themselves with trusted friends who can offer support and wisdom when they are in times of need.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Jonathan’s protection of David reflects God’s protective love over His people. God often uses relationships and circumstances to shield us from danger and guide us toward safety. Jonathan’s willingness to help David, despite the risk, shows how God’s love works through people to provide comfort and security in difficult times. Just as Jonathan created a plan to protect David, God actively watches over His children and provides the means for their safety, often in ways that are not immediately visible.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jonathan’s act of safeguarding David points to the way Jesus provides ultimate protection and refuge for His people. Just as Jonathan devised a plan to protect David from danger, Jesus offers believers a place of safety and refuge through His sacrifice. In John 10:11, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. Jonathan’s loyalty and willingness to help David mirror Christ’s sacrificial love for humanity, where Jesus provides safety from the ultimate danger of sin and death through His death and resurrection.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever been in a situation where you needed to act with discretion and trust a close friend for support and guidance? How did that experience shape your understanding of friendship and trust in God?
2. How can you practice wisdom and careful planning in your own life, especially when faced with challenging or dangerous situations?
3. In what ways can you reflect Jonathan’s loyalty and protection toward others, knowing that God often works through relationships to offer support and safety?