1 Samuel 19:7

And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan shewed him all those things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as in times past.

And Jonathan {H3083} called {H7121} David {H1732}, and Jonathan {H3083} shewed {H5046} him all those things {H1697}. And Jonathan {H3083} brought {H935} David {H1732} to Saul {H7586}, and he was in his presence {H6440}, as in times past {H865}{H8032}.

Y'honatan called David and told him all these things. Then Y'honatan brought David to Sha'ul to be in attendance on the king, as before.

So Jonathan summoned David and told him all these things. Then Jonathan brought David to Saul to serve him as he had before.

And Jonathan called David, and Jonathan showed him all those things. And Jonathan brought David to Saul, and he was in his presence, as beforetime.

Commentary

Context

This verse follows a dramatic period where King Saul's intense jealousy of David had escalated into murderous intent. David's victories and popularity, particularly after defeating Goliath, led Saul to view him as a threat to his throne. Saul had previously attempted to kill David with a javelin (1 Samuel 18:11) and had sent him on dangerous missions, hoping David would be killed by the Philistines. In the preceding verses (1 Samuel 19:1-6), Saul had explicitly commanded his son Jonathan and his servants to kill David. However, Jonathan, bound by a deep covenant of friendship with David (1 Samuel 18:1), passionately pleaded David's case before his father, reminding Saul of David's loyal service and the great deliverance he brought to Israel. Miraculously, Saul listened to Jonathan's reasoning and swore an oath that David would not be killed. This verse marks the immediate outcome of Jonathan's successful intercession.

Key Themes

  • Jonathan's Unwavering Loyalty and Friendship: This verse powerfully demonstrates the depth of Jonathan's love and commitment to David. He risked his own standing and potentially his life to defend his friend, acting as a true intercessor. His actions showcase a selfless devotion rare in any context, especially given his position as heir to the throne.
  • Saul's Volatile Nature: The King's sudden change of heart, from murderous rage to accepting David back "as in times past," highlights his unstable emotional and spiritual state. This fluctuation would be a recurring pattern in his relationship with David, illustrating his internal conflict and lack of consistent resolve.
  • Divine Protection and Providence: Despite Saul's repeated attempts and commands to kill David, God consistently protected David through various means, including Jonathan's courageous intervention. This points to God's sovereign plan for David to become king, ensuring his safety even in the most perilous situations.
  • Temporary Restoration: For a brief period, this verse signifies a restoration of David's status and safety within Saul's court, allowing him to resume his duties and presence. It represents a moment of peace before the conflict inevitably resurfaced.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "as in times past" (KJV) conveys a sense of return to a previous state of normalcy and favor. The Hebrew phrase, often translated as "as before" or "as previously," emphasizes the restoration of David's position in Saul's presence. It implies a return to his role as a trusted servant, musician, and military leader, before Saul's jealousy fully consumed him. This signifies a temporary cessation of overt hostility from Saul, bringing David back into the king's inner circle, at least for a while.

Practical Application

This passage offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • The Power of Intercession: Jonathan's bold and articulate defense of David reminds us of the importance of speaking up for the innocent and advocating for those unjustly treated. It highlights how one person's courage can make a significant difference.
  • True Friendship: Jonathan's example is a powerful illustration of genuine, selfless friendship that stands firm in adversity, even against familial or societal pressure. It challenges us to be loyal and supportive friends, willing to sacrifice for others.
  • Navigating Difficult Relationships: The fluctuating relationship between Saul and David, mediated by Jonathan, provides insight into dealing with unpredictable or hostile individuals. It also underscores the value of peacemakers in tense situations.
  • Trusting God's Protection: Despite the constant threats and Saul's determined efforts, David's life was preserved. This verse reassures us that God can use unexpected means (like a loyal friend's influence) to protect and guide us through dangerous situations, ensuring His purposes are fulfilled in our lives.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Samuel 18:2

    And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house.

  • 1 Samuel 16:21

    And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his armourbearer.

  • 1 Samuel 18:13

    Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people.

  • 1 Samuel 18:10

    And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and [there was] a javelin in Saul's hand.

  • Genesis 31:2

    And Jacob beheld the countenance of Laban, and, behold, it [was] not toward him as before.

  • Exodus 4:10

    ¶ And Moses said unto the LORD, O my Lord, I [am] not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I [am] slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.

  • Isaiah 30:33

    For Tophet [is] ordained of old; yea, for the king it is prepared; he hath made [it] deep [and] large: the pile thereof [is] fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone, doth kindle it.
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