Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:13

1 Samuel 20:13 states, "But if my father intend to do thee evil, then the LORD do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father to do thee good, then I will show thee kindness, that thou mayest send thee away in peace: and the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father."

Introduction

This verse captures a pivotal moment in the relationship between Jonathan and David, as well as Jonathan's loyalty amidst the brewing conflict between David and Saul. It exemplifies the tension between familial duty and friendship, particularly in a context where loyalty could lead to dire consequences.

Contextual Background

1 Samuel 20 occurs in the larger narrative of Saul's growing jealousy and animosity towards David, who is rising in favor with the people and God. Jonathan, Saul's son, finds himself torn between his royal heritage and his deep friendship with David. The historical context highlights the struggle for power in Israel, setting the stage for Jonathan’s declarations of loyalty.

Verse Analysis

“But if my father intend to do thee evil”

This phrase reflects Jonathan's awareness of his father's volatile state. Jonathan's insight shows that he is not blinded by loyalty to his father but recognizes the threat that Saul poses not only to David but to his own moral compass.

“Then the LORD do so and much more to Jonathan”

Here, Jonathan invokes God's judgment upon himself should he betray David. This stark declaration underscores the seriousness of his commitment. Jonathan aligns his actions with divine will, emphasizing the weight of his words and the covenant bond he shares with David, which transcends familial loyalty.

“But if it please my father to do thee good”

Jonathan presents the conditionality of the situation. His recognition that Saul could have peaceful intentions highlights the duality of human relationships. This sets the stage for understanding the complexity of human motives and divine purpose.

“Then I will show thee kindness”

Here, the term "kindness" implies a deep loyalty, possibly referencing the Hebrew word 'chesed', which denotes steadfast love. It is indicative of Jonathan's covenant loyalty to David, emphasizing the selfless love that characterizes true friendship and faithfulness.

“That thou mayest send thee away in peace”

The intention to send David away in peace indicates Jonathan’s desire for David’s safety and his role as mediator. This act illustrates Jonathan's understanding of brotherhood, often seen as sacrificial love, willing to place his friend’s safety above personal interest, which resonates deeply within biblical themes of friendship.

“And the LORD be with thee, as he hath been with my father”

Jonathan's blessing reinforces the theological understanding that God’s presence is pivotal in the lives of His anointed. By acknowledging God’s past favor upon his father, he highlights the irony of his situation—being the heir to a throne whose divine favor has been shifting from Saul to David.

Thematic Insights

• The Nature of Loyalty: This verse gives profound insights into the nature of loyalty — both within families and among friends. Jonathan's actions showcase a model of loyalty that transcends blood ties, reflecting a higher ethical standard.
• Friendship in Adversity: Jonathan and David’s relationship exemplifies friendship in the face of adversity. Their bond serves as a testament to the importance of support systems and camaraderie during tumultuous times.
• The Role of Providence: Jonathan’s invocation of the LORD reflects a key theological principle: the understanding that God is sovereign over human affairs. His recognition of God's will reinforces the belief that ultimate control lies in divine providence.
• Divine Favor: The acknowledgment of God’s favor not only on Jonathan’s father, Saul, but also upon David underscores the theme of divine election. It illustrates the fact that God's plans often unfold in unexpected ways.

Application for Pastors and Theologians

This verse calls for deep reflection on the nature of covenant relationships and the commitment required in them. Pastors can draw from Jonathan's example of loyalty and integrity when counseling congregants faced with conflicting loyalties. The necessity of placing divine will above human relationships can serve as a powerful sermon point.

The theological implications of invoking God's name in the context of human relationships invite scholars to examine the implications of our commitments and the expected outcomes. Scholars may explore how the biblical narrative portrays the dynamics of friendship against the backdrop of divine purpose and human failure.

Conclusion

1 Samuel 20:13 encapsulates the essence of a genuine friendship rooted in God’s covenantal love. Jonathan’s declaration challenges readers to assess their loyalties and the implications of their commitments. Ultimately, this verse serves as an invitation to embrace the complexity of human relationships while remaining anchored in faithfulness to God and one another.