1 Samuel 20:27 – “But the next day, the second day of the month, David’s place was empty again. Then Saul said to his son Jonathan, ‘Why hasn’t the son of Jesse come to the meal, either yesterday or today?’”
Extended Explanation
This verse captures Saul’s growing suspicion and frustration over David’s absence from the New Moon feast. On the second day of the feast, Saul notices David’s continued absence and questions his son Jonathan about it. Referring to David as “the son of Jesse” instead of by name reflects Saul’s increasing bitterness and alienation from David. Saul’s question highlights his deeper concern and the tension that has built between him and David. Saul’s inquiry sets the stage for Jonathan’s response, which will ultimately reveal Saul’s true intentions toward David.
Historical Context
By this point, King Saul’s jealousy and fear of David had been building for some time. David had become a national hero after defeating Goliath, and his military success further endeared him to the people of Israel. Saul, however, saw David as a threat to his throne. Jonathan, Saul’s son, had formed a deep friendship with David, which placed him in a difficult position. This New Moon feast was a significant religious and social event in Israel, and David’s absence was meant to test Saul’s reaction. On the second day of his absence, Saul’s question reveals his growing concern and sets the stage for a confrontation.
Theological Implications
This verse points to the destructive nature of unchecked jealousy and bitterness. Saul’s anger toward David had consumed him, to the point where he couldn’t even speak David’s name. Theologically, this serves as a warning about how sin can distort our relationships and lead us down a path of division and resentment. Saul’s refusal to acknowledge David by name reveals the depth of his animosity, which stands in contrast to the love and loyalty that Jonathan shows toward David. This passage reminds us of the importance of guarding our hearts against envy and trusting in God’s plan, even when it challenges our own desires.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse adds to the tension of the narrative. The mention of David’s absence on the second day of the feast builds on the suspense created in the previous verses. Saul’s questioning of Jonathan moves the plot forward, drawing attention to the impending conflict between Saul, Jonathan, and David. The use of “the son of Jesse” instead of David’s name adds a layer of estrangement, showing how Saul’s view of David has shifted from that of a trusted servant to that of an enemy. This subtle shift in language emphasizes the growing divide between Saul and David.
Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 18:7-9 – This passage describes the initial source of Saul’s jealousy, when the women of Israel sang of David’s greater victories, causing Saul to view David with suspicion from that day on.
- Genesis 4:6-7 – God warns Cain about the danger of unchecked anger and jealousy, a parallel to Saul’s situation, as both were consumed by these emotions.
- James 3:16 – “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” Saul’s envy toward David leads to increasing disorder in his life and reign.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse highlights the dangers of allowing jealousy or bitterness to take root in our hearts. Saul’s refusal to see David as anything more than a threat led him down a path of destruction. This passage challenges believers to examine their own hearts and relationships, asking whether unresolved envy or bitterness is affecting their attitudes or actions. Additionally, this verse serves as a reminder that God’s plans often don’t align with our own ambitions, and trusting in His will is crucial, even when it means accepting outcomes we may not want.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His protection over David, even as Saul’s hostility increases. Despite Saul’s efforts to harm David, God continues to guide and protect him through the loyalty of Jonathan and the wisdom of careful planning. This verse reminds us that God’s love is steadfast, and He often uses relationships, circumstances, and even the actions of others to protect His people. Saul’s growing anger contrasts with God’s unwavering love for David, illustrating how God watches over those He calls, even in the face of opposition.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Saul’s growing resentment toward David parallels the rejection Jesus faced from many in positions of power. Just as Saul failed to recognize David’s anointing by God, many religious leaders in Jesus’ day failed to see Him as the Messiah. In John 1:11, it says, “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” David’s experience foreshadows Jesus’ rejection by His own people, and yet, just as God protected David for His purposes, Jesus ultimately fulfilled God’s plan through His suffering, death, and resurrection. The rejection of both David and Jesus serves as a reminder that God’s purposes will prevail, even when they are opposed by the world.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Have you ever experienced feelings of jealousy or bitterness that impacted your relationships? How can you seek God’s help to let go of those emotions?
- What does Saul’s growing hostility toward David teach you about the dangers of letting envy and ambition go unchecked?
- How can you trust God’s plan for your life, even when it challenges your own ambitions or desires, much like David had to trust God in the face of Saul’s anger?