1 Samuel 20:39 – “The boy knew nothing about all this; only Jonathan and David knew.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, the boy who is retrieving the arrows for Jonathan is unaware of the true meaning behind Jonathan’s actions. The young servant thinks he is simply collecting arrows, but in reality, Jonathan’s actions are part of a secret plan to communicate with David, who is in hiding. The phrase “only Jonathan and David knew” emphasizes the depth of their friendship and the secrecy required to protect David’s life from King Saul. This verse highlights how important their bond was and the careful lengths Jonathan was willing to go to in order to ensure David’s safety.
Historical Context
At this point in the story, King Saul’s desire to kill David has escalated. Saul sees David as a threat to his throne because of David’s growing popularity and God’s favor upon him. Jonathan, Saul’s son and David’s closest friend, has made a covenant with David to protect him, even though it puts him in direct conflict with his father. The plan Jonathan and David devised involved using arrows as a secret signal to communicate whether or not it was safe for David to return. The boy in this verse represents the innocence and unawareness of others in the midst of a highly dangerous political situation.
Theological Implications
This verse carries a deeper message about discernment and the role of trusted relationships. Jonathan and David’s secrecy reflects the wisdom that is sometimes necessary when facing dangerous or hostile circumstances. Theologically, this highlights the importance of trust and faithfulness in relationships. Jonathan’s loyalty to David shows that believers are called to protect and support each other, especially when they face trials or persecution. This also demonstrates the value of discernment, knowing when and how to act wisely to fulfill God’s purposes while remaining faithful to those God has placed in our lives.
Literary Analysis
The simplicity of this verse’s structure belies its depth of meaning. The boy’s ignorance of the situation contrasts sharply with the heavy burden of knowledge that Jonathan and David carry. This literary contrast highlights the loneliness that can accompany those who must navigate dangerous or complicated relationships. It also emphasizes the intimacy of Jonathan and David’s friendship. The phrase “only Jonathan and David knew” is crucial, showing that the weight of Saul’s enmity and David’s potential danger rested solely on the shoulders of these two friends, increasing the tension of the scene.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 17:17 – “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Jonathan’s loyalty to David exemplifies the kind of deep friendship that stands firm in the face of adversity.
- Psalm 41:9 – “Even my close friend, someone I trusted, one who shared my bread, has turned against me.” This verse is the opposite of Jonathan and David’s friendship, showing the depth of Jonathan’s loyalty as a true friend.
- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 – “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Jonathan and David’s partnership reflects this principle of mutual support and faithfulness.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, this verse reminds us of the importance of discernment in relationships and the value of trusted friendships. Jonathan’s faithfulness to David, even in secret, challenges believers to consider how they can be loyal and supportive to their friends, particularly when those friends are facing difficult circumstances. It also teaches us to value the confidences we keep and to use wisdom when navigating tricky situations. While others, like the boy, may not understand the depth of the trials we or our loved ones face, God calls us to be faithful and discerning in how we support and protect each other.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Jonathan’s loyalty and care for David reflect God’s protective and faithful love for His people. Just as Jonathan kept David’s safety as his priority, God watches over His children, often in ways that others may not even notice or understand. God’s love is personal, protective, and often works behind the scenes to safeguard His people from danger. The relationship between Jonathan and David mirrors God’s deep commitment to care for and protect those He loves, ensuring their safety and well-being even when the world around them seems unaware of the threats they face.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jonathan and David’s friendship, marked by trust and secrecy, foreshadows the way Jesus would care for His followers. Jesus shared deep secrets with His closest disciples, revealing God’s plans and preparing them for what was to come. In John 15:15, Jesus says, “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends.” Just as Jonathan and David shared a deep and trusted friendship, Jesus invites His followers into a close relationship with Him, where He shares God’s plans and protects us from harm.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jonathan’s loyalty to David challenge you to be a faithful friend who offers support, even in difficult or dangerous situations?
- In what ways can you exercise discernment and wisdom in your relationships, knowing when and how to support others as Jonathan did?
- How have you experienced God’s protective love in your life, even when others were unaware of the challenges you were facing? How can you reflect that love in your friendships and relationships today?