This verse highlights Jonathan’s bold loyalty and foreshadows David’s providential destiny in Bethlehem.
Then Jonathan answered Saul, “David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem” (v.28). In this verse, we find Jonathan, the son of King Saul, explaining David’s absence from the royal feast. At this point in Israel’s history (around 1010 BC), tension simmered between King Saul and David because Saul suspected David was chosen by God to lead Israel. Jonathan, who was deeply loyal to David, provided this explanation that David needed to return to his hometown of Bethlehem. This ancient city, located about six miles south of Jerusalem in the region of Judah, was significant not only as the birthplace of David but later as the birthplace of Jesus the Messiah. The mention of Bethlehem here underscores David’s roots, tying him closely to Israel’s future monarchy and foreshadowing the lineage from which Christ would come (Matthew 1:1; Luke 2:4).
Jonathan’s statement in 1 Samuel 20:28 shows both his courage and devotion. By covering for David’s absence, Jonathan attempted to protect David from Saul’s anger. Saul’s jealousy grew after David’s victory over Goliath and his subsequent popularity among the Israelites (1 Samuel 17; 18). This confrontation would soon force David to flee and live on the run from Saul (1 Samuel 19-31). Yet, despite Saul’s hostility, Jonathan acted in faithfulness to keep his covenant of friendship with David. Their close bond reflects a powerful example of loyalty and covenant commitment—qualities that mirror the steadfast love God shows His people.
In the grand narrative of Scripture, Jonathan’s defense of David also foreshadows the concept of intercession. Just as Jonathan spoke up for David, so Jesus intercedes before God for those who place their faith in Him (Hebrews 7:25). Through David’s line, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, bringing salvation to all who believe. Thus, the meeting of Jonathan and Saul over David’s absence illustrates God’s unfolding plan, weaving together historical details, divine promises, and ultimate redemption.
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1 Samuel 20:28 meaning
Then Jonathan answered Saul, “David earnestly asked leave of me to go to Bethlehem” (v.28). In this verse, we find Jonathan, the son of King Saul, explaining David’s absence from the royal feast. At this point in Israel’s history (around 1010 BC), tension simmered between King Saul and David because Saul suspected David was chosen by God to lead Israel. Jonathan, who was deeply loyal to David, provided this explanation that David needed to return to his hometown of Bethlehem. This ancient city, located about six miles south of Jerusalem in the region of Judah, was significant not only as the birthplace of David but later as the birthplace of Jesus the Messiah. The mention of Bethlehem here underscores David’s roots, tying him closely to Israel’s future monarchy and foreshadowing the lineage from which Christ would come (Matthew 1:1; Luke 2:4).
Jonathan’s statement in 1 Samuel 20:28 shows both his courage and devotion. By covering for David’s absence, Jonathan attempted to protect David from Saul’s anger. Saul’s jealousy grew after David’s victory over Goliath and his subsequent popularity among the Israelites (1 Samuel 17; 18). This confrontation would soon force David to flee and live on the run from Saul (1 Samuel 19-31). Yet, despite Saul’s hostility, Jonathan acted in faithfulness to keep his covenant of friendship with David. Their close bond reflects a powerful example of loyalty and covenant commitment—qualities that mirror the steadfast love God shows His people.
In the grand narrative of Scripture, Jonathan’s defense of David also foreshadows the concept of intercession. Just as Jonathan spoke up for David, so Jesus intercedes before God for those who place their faith in Him (Hebrews 7:25). Through David’s line, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, bringing salvation to all who believe. Thus, the meeting of Jonathan and Saul over David’s absence illustrates God’s unfolding plan, weaving together historical details, divine promises, and ultimate redemption.