1 Samuel 20:38 – “Then he shouted, ‘Hurry! Go quickly! Don’t stop!’ The boy picked up the arrow and returned to his master.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jonathan, having shot an arrow as part of a secret signal to David, shouts instructions to his servant boy. Jonathan’s words, “Hurry! Go quickly! Don’t stop!” serve a dual purpose: they are literal instructions to the boy to retrieve the arrow, but they are also a coded message for David, who is hiding nearby. Jonathan is telling David that he must leave immediately and not hesitate, as the danger from King Saul is real and imminent. The boy, unaware of the significance of Jonathan’s message, simply retrieves the arrow and brings it back, while David understands the urgency and danger reflected in Jonathan’s words.
Historical Context
By this point in the narrative, Saul’s jealousy and anger toward David had grown to dangerous levels. Jonathan, Saul’s son and David’s closest friend, had arranged this method of signaling to David whether or not it was safe to return. After confirming Saul’s murderous intentions during the New Moon feast, Jonathan carries out the agreed-upon plan. This scene takes place in a field where David is hiding, waiting for the signal. Jonathan, fully aware of his father’s intentions, uses this moment to warn David to flee. The innocence of the servant boy contrasts with the gravity of the situation, as only Jonathan and David understand the true meaning behind the signal.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of friendship, loyalty, and sacrificial love. Jonathan’s willingness to warn David, even though it puts him in a difficult position with his father, reflects the biblical call to put the well-being of others ahead of our own. Theologically, this moment also shows the value of discernment and wisdom in relationships. Jonathan had to act carefully and strategically to protect David while maintaining his integrity. His actions remind believers that there are times when standing up for what is right requires courage and careful planning, especially when navigating dangerous or complex situations.
Literary Analysis
Jonathan’s shout to the boy serves as a powerful piece of communication in the narrative. The urgency in his words—“Hurry! Go quickly! Don’t stop!”—creates a sense of tension and immediacy. While the boy takes these instructions at face value, the reader and David understand that these words are also meant for David. This dual-layered communication adds depth to the story, showing Jonathan’s cleverness and his deep care for David. The simplicity of the scene—just a boy retrieving an arrow—masks the life-and-death stakes for David. The literary contrast between the boy’s innocence and the danger David faces heightens the emotional weight of the moment.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 17:17 – “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Jonathan’s steadfast loyalty to David exemplifies the deep bond of friendship that can endure even in times of great adversity.
- 1 John 3:16 – “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” Jonathan’s willingness to risk his relationship with his father to protect David reflects the sacrificial love we are called to have for others.
- Psalm 121:7-8 – “The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” This psalm reflects the protection David received, not just from Jonathan, but ultimately from God.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of loyalty and friendship. Jonathan’s example challenges believers to be faithful friends who stand by others, even when it comes at great personal risk. It also encourages Christians to be wise and discerning in their actions, especially when facing difficult or dangerous situations. Jonathan’s careful communication with David shows that loyalty and love sometimes require us to act with strategy and wisdom to protect those we care about. This passage also highlights the urgency of responding to God’s leading and warnings in our lives, just as David had to quickly heed Jonathan’s warning.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Jonathan’s protection of David reflects God’s protective love for His people. Just as Jonathan warned David of the imminent danger, God watches over and warns His children when they face threats. His love is both protective and proactive, ensuring that we are guided away from harm. This verse reminds us that God often uses relationships and people around us to offer support and guidance. Jonathan’s care for David mirrors the way God intervenes in our lives through others, ensuring that we are safeguarded from harm while providing us with wisdom in times of crisis.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jonathan’s loyalty and sacrificial love for David point to the ultimate loyalty and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Just as Jonathan protected David from Saul’s wrath, Jesus came to protect humanity from the power of sin and death. In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jonathan’s actions foreshadow the selfless love that Jesus would later demonstrate by giving His life for the salvation of all people. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus becomes the ultimate protector, ensuring that those who follow Him are kept safe from eternal harm.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jonathan’s loyalty to David challenge you to be a more faithful and sacrificial friend in your relationships?
- In what ways can you practice discernment and wisdom in navigating complex or dangerous situations, as Jonathan did in protecting David?
- How have you seen God’s protective love in your life, perhaps through the guidance and support of others? How can you be a source of protection and support for those around you?