READ: 1 Sam. 18:1-4: Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul…
Our text describes a very special friendship between David and Jonathan. How should we view this friendship? Is it a confidential relationship, or an intimate love relationship between two men? After the victory over Goliath, followed by the defeat of the Philistines, David is in the spotlight. Saul calls him to himself. He is given a leadership position, with the approval of the people and Saul’s servants (vs.5). Do the people see the victory as the work of the LORD? How do they view David?
We read about the reactions of Jonathan and Saul. Jonathan becomes deeply connected to David and loves him as himself. This friendship arises from faith-based connection to the LORD. Jonathan shows the same dependence on the LORD as David (14:6,45). This recognition of dedication to the LORD is the basis for their special friendship. Later, Jonathan defends David before Saul by pointing out David’s act of faith (19:4,5).
How different is Saul’s reaction to David. Although Saul initially acknowledges David’s courage and wants to reward him, his acknowledgment is not based on recognizing faith courage. Saul shows no faith and has no faith community. He starts to hate David, especially when the women celebrate David’s victories. In this terrible situation, God provides support to David through his friendship with Jonathan.
For Jonathan, this friendship means self-denial. Although he is the heir to the throne, he acknowledges David, the son of a shepherd, as his superior. Instead of jealousy, he shows true brotherly love: Jonathan loves David as himself and is willing to give even his life for him. They make a covenant not as lovers but as close friends and swear loyalty to each other, even in the name of the LORD. Jonathan knows: David is the man after God’s own heart. He wants to serve both God and his anointed King..
Is Jonathan’s love an example for us?
Singing: Ps. 132:1,4