1 Samuel 19:4

KJV

And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works [have been] to thee-ward very good:

KJV (with Strong's)

And Jonathan {H3083} spake {H1696} good {H2896} of David {H1732} unto Saul {H7586} his father {H1}, and said {H559} unto him, Let not the king {H4428} sin {H2398} against his servant {H5650}, against David {H1732}; because he hath not sinned {H2398} against thee, and because his works {H4639} have been to thee-ward very {H3966} good {H2896}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Y'honatan spoke well of David to Sha'ul his father and said to him, "The king shouldn't sin against his servant David, because he hasn't sinned against you. On the contrary, his work for you has been very good indeed.

Berean Standard Bible

Then Jonathan spoke well of David to his father Saul and said to him, “The king should not sin against his servant David; he has not sinned against you. In fact, his actions have been highly beneficial to you.

American Standard Version

And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Samuel 19:4 presents a profound moment of courageous intercession, where Jonathan, King Saul's son, passionately advocates for David before his volatile and increasingly paranoid father. Jonathan appeals to Saul's sense of justice, reason, and moral duty, meticulously emphasizing David's blameless conduct and the immense, undeniable good he has brought to the kingdom. This pivotal verse not only highlights Jonathan's unwavering loyalty and covenant love for David but also starkly contrasts David's consistent integrity with the destructive nature of Saul's unchecked jealousy and unrighteous anger.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within a period of escalating tension and overt conflict between King Saul and David. Following David's divinely empowered victory over Goliath in [1 Samuel 17](/1-samuel/17 "1 Samuel 17 - David and Goliath") and his subsequent military triumphs, David's popularity among the people of Israel soared, eclipsing Saul's own standing. This widespread admiration ignited a deep-seated jealousy and paranoia within King Saul, manifesting in several murderous attempts on David's life, as evidenced by Saul's repeated attempts to spear David in [1 Samuel 18:11](/1-samuel/18-11 "1 Samuel 18:11 - Saul's Attempt to Spear David") and [1 Samuel 19:10](/1-samuel/19-10 "1 Samuel 19:10 - Saul Again Tries to Kill David"). Jonathan's intervention in [1 Samuel 19:4](/1-samuel/19-4 "1 Samuel 19:4 - Jonathan Intercedes for David") is a direct and courageous response to Saul's explicit command to his servants to kill David, recorded in [1 Samuel 19:1](/1-samuel/19-1 "1 Samuel 19:1 - Saul Commands David's Death"). This act marks a critical point where Jonathan actively fulfills the covenant of friendship he had established with David in [1 Samuel 18:3](/1-samuel/18-3 "1 Samuel 18:3 - Jonathan and David's Covenant"), risking his own standing and safety within the royal court in a desperate attempt to reconcile his father with his beloved friend.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds in ancient Israel during the nascent monarchy, a period when the king's authority was often considered absolute, and loyalty to the throne was paramount. Disobedience or any perceived threat to royal power could result in swift and brutal punishment. Saul's deteriorating mental and spiritual state, frequently attributed to an "evil spirit from the Lord" ([1 Samuel 16:14](/1-samuel/16-14 "1 Samuel 16:14 - Saul's Torment")), provides a crucial backdrop for his increasingly irrational behavior, paranoia, and murderous impulses. Jonathan's actions are particularly remarkable given the strong cultural expectation of filial obedience and unwavering loyalty to the reigning monarch. His willingness to challenge his father's decree on behalf of David, a non-royal individual who was perceived as a rival, underscores the extraordinary nature of his covenant with David and his profound moral conviction. David, as a highly successful military commander and a figure of public adoration, was a significant national asset, making Saul's animosity toward him not merely a personal vendetta but a matter of public concern that threatened the stability and unity of the kingdom.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes woven throughout [1 Samuel](/1-samuel "The Book of 1 Samuel"). Firstly, it profoundly highlights the theme of **Loyalty and Covenant**, showcasing Jonathan's unwavering devotion to David, a bond that transcends familial ties, political ambition, and personal danger. His selfless intercession is a direct manifestation of the covenant love established between them, demonstrating a rare and self-sacrificing friendship that foreshadows the steadfast love of God for His people. Secondly, the verse underscores **David's Righteousness and Integrity**, as Jonathan explicitly affirms David's innocence ("hath not sinned against thee") and his meritorious service ("his works [have been] to thee-ward very good"). This affirmation reinforces the divine favor upon David and starkly contrasts his blameless character with Saul's escalating unrighteousness and moral decay. Thirdly, the passage implicitly but powerfully reveals the **Destructive Nature of Jealousy and Envy**. Saul's irrational hatred, despite David's blameless conduct and beneficial contributions to the kingdom, serves as a poignant cautionary tale about how unchecked envy can corrupt a leader, blind him to truth, and lead to unjust, self-destructive actions, ultimately contributing to Saul's tragic downfall and the loss of his kingdom.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Spake (Hebrew, _dâbar'_):** This primitive root (H1696) signifies more than mere utterance; it implies arranging words, speaking with purpose, declaring, or even commanding. In this context, Jonathan's "speaking" is a deliberate act of advocacy, a reasoned and earnest argument presented to persuade Saul. It denotes a formal and articulate defense, not a casual conversation.
* **Sin (Hebrew, _châṭâʼ'_):** The verb (H2398) literally means "to miss the mark," and figuratively, "to offend," "to act unjustly," or "to forfeit." Jonathan's use of this term is a direct moral challenge to Saul, implying that any harm done to David would not merely be a political act but a grave offense against an innocent and loyal servant, a transgression against divine and human justice.
* **Good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** This adjective (H2896) carries a wide range of meanings, encompassing beauty, favor, prosperity, and moral excellence. When applied to David's "works" and intensified by "very" (_mᵉʼôd_, H3966), it highlights the exceptional quality, effectiveness, and beneficial nature of David's actions specifically for Saul and the kingdom. It underscores the profound injustice of Saul's animosity, as David's contributions were undeniably advantageous and morally upright.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father":** This opening clause immediately establishes the central action: Jonathan's courageous and deliberate act of intercession. It highlights his unique, yet precarious, position as Saul's son, granting him access and a voice that others might not possess, while simultaneously placing him in direct opposition to his volatile father's murderous intent. His "speaking good" is an active, persuasive advocacy on David's behalf.
* **"and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David;":** Jonathan's plea is direct, urgent, and morally charged. He frames Saul's intended actions as a "sin," appealing directly to Saul's conscience and his duty as a king to uphold justice and protect his subjects. By referring to David as "his servant," Jonathan reminds Saul of David's loyal, subordinate, and beneficial position, making the king's animosity all the more unjustifiable. The repetition of "against David" emphasizes the specific target of Saul's malice and the gravity of the potential transgression.
* **"because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works [have been] to thee-ward very good:":** This provides the compelling, two-fold rationale for Jonathan's impassioned appeal. First, David's proven innocence: he has committed no offense, no "sin," against Saul. Second, David's undeniable positive contributions: his actions have been exceptionally beneficial and advantageous to Saul personally and to the kingdom as a whole. This logical and factual argument directly refutes any legitimate basis for Saul's hatred, exposing it as irrational, unfounded, and rooted solely in destructive jealousy.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and emotional weight. **Irony** is powerfully present, as the king, who is divinely appointed to uphold justice and protect his subjects, is being admonished by his own son not to "sin against" a loyal and innocent servant. This highlights Saul's profound moral decay and the inversion of proper royal conduct. **Contrast** is central to the passage, starkly juxtaposing Jonathan's selfless loyalty, moral courage, and clear-sightedness with Saul's paranoid jealousy, irrational hatred, and murderous intent. Furthermore, David's blameless service and undeniably "very good" works stand in sharp contrast to Saul's unrighteous animosity. Jonathan's speech itself functions as a potent **Rhetorical Appeal**, specifically an appeal to reason (logos) and moral duty (ethos), attempting to sway Saul through logical argument and an emphasis on David's undeniable contributions and innocence. The use of strong, declarative statements reinforces the gravity of the situation and the sincerity of Jonathan's plea.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse resonates with profound theological and thematic connections, illustrating God's sovereign protection over His chosen one and the transformative power of righteous intercession. Jonathan's courageous stand for David underscores the biblical theme of covenant loyalty and the profound value of true friendship, which reflects, albeit imperfectly, the steadfast love of God for His people. It also speaks to the broader narrative of God's providence, demonstrating how He often uses human agents and relationships to fulfill His divine purposes, even in the face of human wickedness and opposition. Jonathan's advocacy for David serves as a powerful example of speaking truth to power and defending the innocent, a call echoed throughout scripture for those who seek justice and righteousness in a fallen world.

* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "Proverbs 17:17 - A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [Proverbs 31:8-9](/proverbs/31-8-9 "Proverbs 31:8-9 - Speak Up for the Voiceless")
* [Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear One Another's Burdens")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Jonathan's bold intercession on behalf of David in 1 Samuel 19:4 offers a timeless and challenging model for believers today. It compels us to examine our own courage and conviction in the face of injustice. Are we willing to speak up for those who are being wronged, even when it might be inconvenient, unpopular, or personally risky? Jonathan's loyalty to David, which transcended his own self-interest, familial ties to the king, and even potential danger, calls us to cultivate friendships marked by such profound commitment, self-sacrifice, and unwavering support. Furthermore, David's consistent integrity and excellent service, despite being the object of Saul's irrational hatred and persecution, reminds us of the paramount importance of maintaining our character, diligently performing our duties with excellence, and trusting God with the outcomes of our faithfulness, regardless of external circumstances or unfair treatment. Finally, the narrative serves as a potent cautionary tale against the corrosive power of jealousy and envy, urging us to guard our hearts against such destructive emotions that can blind us to truth, distort our perceptions, and ultimately lead to harmful, unrighteous actions against others and ourselves.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you currently called to demonstrate courageous advocacy for others, particularly when it might be difficult or unpopular?**
* **How can you intentionally cultivate friendships that reflect the depth of loyalty, self-sacrifice, and unwavering support seen between Jonathan and David?**
* **What practical steps can you take to guard your heart against the destructive power of jealousy and envy, preventing them from distorting your perceptions and leading to unrighteous actions?**
* **How does David's continued faithfulness in service, despite Saul's animosity and unjust persecution, challenge your own response to unfair treatment or adversity?**

### FAQ

**Why did Jonathan risk his position and life by interceding for David?**

Answer: Jonathan risked his position and life primarily out of a profound loyalty and covenant love for David, which he sealed in [1 Samuel 18:3](/1-samuel/18-3 "1 Samuel 18:3 - Jonathan and David's Covenant"). He clearly recognized David's innocence, integrity, and the immense good David had done for the kingdom, understanding that Saul's animosity was unjust and driven by irrational jealousy. Jonathan also likely discerned God's favor on David, recognizing that David was God's chosen one for the future of Israel, even if it meant superseding his own claim to the throne. His actions were a testament to his deep moral conviction, his genuine friendship, and his willingness to prioritize righteousness and God's will over personal safety, political gain, or filial obligation to an unrighteous king. Jonathan's selfless love for David is one of the most profound and exemplary friendships recorded in Scripture.

**Was Saul's animosity toward David ever truly overcome by Jonathan's pleas?**

Answer: While Jonathan's intercession in [1 Samuel 19:4-7](/1-samuel/19-4-7 "1 Samuel 19:4-7 - Jonathan's Successful Intercession") initially seemed to sway Saul, leading him to swear an oath not to kill David, this period of peace was unfortunately short-lived. Saul's deep-seated jealousy and paranoia were recurrent issues, often exacerbated by the "evil spirit" that tormented him ([1 Samuel 16:14](/1-samuel/16-14 "1 Samuel 16:14 - Saul's Torment")). Subsequent events, such as David's continued military successes and public acclaim, reignited Saul's murderous intent, as tragically seen later in [1 Samuel 19:9-10](/1-samuel/19-9-10 "1 Samuel 19:9-10 - Saul Again Tries to Kill David") when Saul again attempted to spear David. Thus, while Jonathan's words had a temporary and significant effect, they could not ultimately overcome the destructive power of Saul's unchecked sin and spiritual decline.

**How does this event contribute to the broader narrative of David's rise to kingship?**

Answer: This event is crucial to the broader narrative of David's rise to kingship in several significant ways. Firstly, it powerfully highlights God's ongoing and active protection of David, demonstrating how God uses faithful human agents like Jonathan to preserve His anointed one from the schemes of the unrighteous. Secondly, it further exposes Saul's increasing unsuitability for kingship, showcasing his irrationality, jealousy, and profound moral decline, which stand in stark contrast to David's character, integrity, and divine favor. Thirdly, it solidifies the unique and pivotal friendship between Jonathan and David, a bond that would prove instrumental in David's survival and eventually lead to David's covenantal kindness toward Jonathan's house after Jonathan's death, as exemplified by David's care for Mephibosheth in [2 Samuel 9](/2-samuel/9 "2 Samuel 9 - David and Mephibosheth"). It underscores that David's ascent to the throne was not merely by human effort or political maneuvering but by divine orchestration, often working through the loyalty and self-sacrifice of others.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The selfless and courageous intercession of Jonathan for David in 1 Samuel 19:4 beautifully foreshadows the ultimate and perfect intercession of Jesus Christ on behalf of humanity. Just as Jonathan pleaded for David's innocence and highlighted his "very good works" before an unjust and volatile king, so Christ, our great High Priest, stands as our perfect advocate before the Father. He intercedes for us, not based on our own "very good works," which are tainted by sin, but solely on the basis of His own perfect righteousness and His finished, redemptive work on the cross. The "sin against" a loyal servant that Jonathan sought to prevent finds its ultimate reversal in Christ, who, though perfectly innocent and having done only "very good works" on our behalf, was unjustly condemned and suffered for the sins of others ([Isaiah 53:5](/isaiah/53-5 "Isaiah 53:5 - He Was Pierced for Our Transgressions")). He is the true [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the judgment we deserved. Furthermore, the profound covenant love between Jonathan and David, marked by self-sacrifice and unwavering loyalty, points to the infinitely greater love of Christ, who laid down His life for His friends ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")) and now ever lives to make intercession for us at the right hand of God ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Priesthood and Intercession")). He is our perfect advocate ([1 John 2:1](/1-john/2-1 "1 John 2:1 - Christ Our Advocate")), whose "works" were not merely "very good" but perfectly redemptive, securing our salvation, reconciliation, and eternal peace with God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Jeremiah 18:20

Shall evil be recompensed for good? for they have digged a pit for my soul. Remember that I stood before thee to speak good for them, [and] to turn away thy wrath from them.

Genesis 42:22

And Reuben answered them, saying, Spake I not unto you, saying, Do not sin against the child; and ye would not hear? therefore, behold, also his blood is required.

Proverbs 31:8

Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

Proverbs 31:9

Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

1 Samuel 20:32

And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done?

Proverbs 17:13

¶ Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.

Psalms 35:12

They rewarded me evil for good [to] the spoiling of my soul.