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David and Jonathan

A king's son who chose covenant over the crown, and the promise David kept to his friend's lame son. 1 Samuel 14 to 2 Samuel 19.

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Opening stop: By many or by few, 1 Samuel 14:6

Before David appears, Jonathan already has a story of his own. He commanded a thousand of his father's men and had struck a Philistine garrison at Geba (1 Samuel 13:2-3). This time he goes with one companion and tells no one, not even Saul (1 Samuel 14:1, 3). The sign he chooses leaves the decision to the enemy's own words. His armour-bearer's reply, I am with thee according to thy heart, is the kind of loyalty Jonathan will later offer David: whatsoever thy soul desireth (1 Samuel 20:4).

And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the Lord will work for us: for there is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few.

King James Version

Jonathan and his armor-bearer attack a Philistine post, and panic spreads through the enemy camp. Israel joins the pursuit, and the narrator credits the Lord with deliverance. Saul's ban on eating leaves his men faint; Jonathan, unaware of the oath, eats honey. The exhausted troops later eat meat with blood, which Saul moves to stop. When lots identify Jonathan, Saul threatens his life, but the people intervene and rescue him.

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