Commentary on 1 Samuel 18:21

Verse Context: 1 Samuel 18:21 states, “And Saul said, I will give her to him, that she may be a snare to him, and that the hand of the Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law.” This verse captures a poignant moment in the narrative of Saul and David, revealing Saul's intentions regarding David and his growing jealousy towards him.

Historical Context

To better understand this verse, we must consider the historical backdrop. Saul, the first king of Israel, had been rejected by God due to his disobedience, while David, anointed by Samuel, was gaining favor among the people and the troops. The tension between Saul and David is palpable and becomes a central theme in the chapters that follow.

Verse Analysis

• Satanic Snare: Saul's offer of his daughter Merab to David as a snare reflects his ulterior motives. The commentary from Matthew Henry points out that Saul was not concerned with uniting the family or honoring David; rather, he sought to use his daughter as bait against David. This illustrates the tragic transformation of Saul from a once humble king to a man consumed by fear and paranoia.
• Political Maneuvering: Albert Barnes provides insights into the political implications of Saul's actions. By offering his daughter, Saul attempted to fortify his position by bringing David into his royal family, yet this was ultimately a strategic error, showing how deepened suspicion often leads to erratic decisions.
• Divine Providence: Adam Clarke emphasizes that God’s providential hand is evident even in Saul's conspiratorial schemes. God can use the very attempts to thwart His plan to fulfill it. The irony here lies in Saul’s misguided efforts – each move against David paradoxically promotes God’s chosen one closer to the throne.

The Implications of Saul's Decision

Saul's choice to offer Merab in marriage to David manifests significant consequences:

• Familial Ties: This union, meant to entrap David, would inadvertently strengthen the bond between them, potentially complicating Saul's vendetta against David.
• Jealousy and Fear: Saul's actions stemmed from jealousy – a theme John Calvin addresses in his commentaries. Saul's fear of losing his power to David becomes more palpable, leading him to desperate measures to ensure David's downfall.
• Symbol of Conflict: The marriage proposal symbolizes the ongoing conflict between Saul and David, indicating that familial relations would become entangled with political strife.

Theological Reflections

This verse invites theological reflection on the nature of kingship, authority, and God’s sovereignty:

• Authority and Responsibility: Leaders are called to wield their authority wisely. Saul's misuse of his power invited God’s judgment, reflecting the biblical truth that leadership involves greater accountability.
• God’s Purpose Prevails: Even as Saul plots against David, God’s purpose is unfolding. This teaches us about God's sovereignty over human affairs. As the Scripture assures, God works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
• Warning Against Jealousy: Saul’s example warns against the destructive nature of jealousy. Pastors can draw from this to guide their congregations to cultivate peace and unity, rather than allowing envy and ambition to foster division.

Application for Today’s Believers

Finally, 1 Samuel 18:21 serves as a critical reminder for believers today:

• Integrity in Leadership: Leaders must operate with integrity, knowing that their actions reflect their character and serve as testimonies to God’s kingdom.
• Emotions and Actions: Followers of Christ should examine their motives and emotions, ensuring that jealousy or fear does not lead to actions that harm others or detract from their purpose in Christ.
• Trust in God’s Plan: This account reassures believers that no matter the schemes of man, God's plans cannot be thwarted. Trusting in His sovereignty amidst trials is paramount for spiritual growth.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 18:21 leaves us with profound insights into the complex interplay of human relationships, divine providence, and the everlasting promise that God remains in control of His creation. In bringing together insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we find a rich tapestry of understanding that speaks not only to the historical context but also to the lasting implications for faith and conduct in the modern age.