1 Samuel 19:7

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

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}.

Complete Jewish Bible

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.

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

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

### SUMMARY
1 Samuel 19:7 details a pivotal, albeit temporary, reprieve in the escalating conflict between King Saul and David. Following Jonathan's courageous and compelling intercession, Saul momentarily abandons his murderous intentions. The verse highlights Jonathan's crucial role as mediator, first informing David of Saul's change of heart and then physically escorting him back into the royal court, thereby restoring David to his former position of favor and trust. This fragile reconciliation underscores the profound bond between Jonathan and David, even as it foreshadows the continued volatility of Saul's reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the immediate outcome of a deeply dramatic and tense confrontation detailed in [1 Samuel 19:1-6](/1_samuel/19-1-6 "1 Samuel 19:1-6 - Jonathan's Intercession for David"). Prior to this, King Saul, consumed by intense jealousy over David's military prowess and burgeoning popularity, had openly commanded his son Jonathan and all his servants to kill David ([1 Samuel 19:1](/1_samuel/19-1 "1 Samuel 19:1 - Saul Commands David's Death")). However, Jonathan, whose soul was "knit with the soul of David" as established in their covenant of friendship ([1 Samuel 18:1-4](/1_samuel/18-1-4 "1 Samuel 18:1-4 - Jonathan's Covenant with David")), bravely defied his father's decree. He passionately pleaded David's case before Saul, reminding the king of David's loyal service, his heroic defeat of Goliath, and the great deliverance he had brought to Israel ([1 Samuel 19:4-5](/1_samuel/19-4-5 "1 Samuel 19:4-5 - Jonathan's Plea to Saul")). Miraculously, Saul listened to Jonathan's reasoning and, swearing by the Lord, promised that David would not be killed ([1 Samuel 19:6](/1_samuel/19-6 "1 Samuel 19:6 - Saul Swears an Oath")). Verse 7, therefore, represents the immediate, though ultimately fleeting, restoration of David's status, a direct testament to Jonathan's successful intercession. The narrative tension, however, will quickly resurface, revealing the deep-seated instability of Saul's character.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the nascent Israelite monarchy, a period of transition from a tribal confederacy to a more centralized kingdom under a king. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a king's word, especially an oath sworn "as the Lord lives," carried immense authority and was generally considered binding, even if later violated due to changing circumstances or temperament. Jonathan's act of defying his father's command was extraordinarily courageous and risky, as it could have been construed as treason. The concept of being "in his presence" (לִפְנֵי, _lifnei_) before the king was a significant indicator of favor, trust, and access, often implying a formal role within the royal court as a counselor, military leader, or musician. David had previously held such a position ([1 Samuel 16:21-23](/1_samuel/16-21-23 "1 Samuel 16:21-23 - David Serves Saul")), and his restoration to this status marked a return to normalcy. The deep value placed on friendship and covenant in ancient Israel is profoundly exemplified by Jonathan's selfless loyalty, which transcended even his filial duty and potential claim to the throne.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully illustrates several enduring themes within the book of Samuel. Firstly, it showcases **Jonathan's Unwavering Loyalty and Intercession**, highlighting his selfless devotion to David, even at great personal risk. His actions serve as a profound example of true covenantal friendship and courageous advocacy, prioritizing righteousness over dynastic ambition. Secondly, it starkly reveals **Saul's Volatile and Unstable Nature**. His sudden shift from murderous rage to a temporary reconciliation underscores his erratic emotional and spiritual state, a pattern that consistently defines his reign and his deteriorating relationship with David. This instability stands in stark contrast to David's more consistent character. Thirdly, the passage subtly but powerfully points to **Divine Protection and Providence** over David's life. Despite Saul's repeated attempts to eliminate him, God consistently orchestrates David's safety, often through unexpected human agents like Jonathan, ensuring His sovereign plan for David's future kingship remains on track, as foretold by David's anointing ([1 Samuel 16:1-13](/1_samuel/16-1-13 "1 Samuel 16 - David Anointed King")). Finally, the phrase "as in times past" signifies a **Temporary Restoration** of peace and David's position, a brief respite before the inevitable resurgence of Saul's jealousy and renewed persecution.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Called (Hebrew, _qârâʼ'_):** This verb (H7121) signifies Jonathan's proactive and deliberate initiative. Having successfully interceded with his father, Jonathan does not delay but immediately summons David. This "calling out to" or "addressing by name" implies an urgent and purposeful communication, reflecting the gravity of the situation and Jonathan's eagerness to convey the good news and facilitate reconciliation. His active role in summoning David underscores his position as the primary agent of this temporary peace.
* **Shewed (Hebrew, _nâgad'_):** The verb "shewed" (H5046) in "shewed him all those things" means "to manifest," "to declare," or "to announce." It implies a full and transparent disclosure. Jonathan did not merely give David a summary but laid out "all those things"—the entirety of his conversation with Saul, including his passionate plea and, crucially, Saul's solemn oath not to harm David. This act of full disclosure was vital for David, who had been living under a death threat, building trust and providing the necessary context for his return.
* **Presence (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** The word "presence" (H6440, plural but used singularly) literally means "face" and is used in a wide variety of applications, often signifying "before," "in the sight of," or "in the favor of." To be "in his presence" (לִפְנֵי, _lifnei_) before the king meant to have access, favor, and a recognized position within the royal court. This indicates David's full restoration to his former status and duties, implying that the overt hostility had ceased for the moment, and David could resume his normal life and service within the palace, enjoying the king's (temporary) favor.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jonathan called David":** This opening clause emphasizes Jonathan's immediate and decisive action following his successful intercession with Saul. It portrays him as the active agent, taking the initiative to locate David and communicate the crucial news, highlighting his role as a faithful friend and mediator.
* **"and Jonathan shewed him all those things":** This clause reveals Jonathan's transparency and thoroughness. He didn't just summon David; he fully informed him of the entire conversation with Saul, including the king's sworn oath. This act of full disclosure was essential to reassure David, who had been in mortal danger, and to provide the necessary context for his return to the court.
* **"And Jonathan brought David to Saul":** This is the culmination of Jonathan's efforts, demonstrating the tangible result of his intercession. He personally escorts David into the king's presence, serving as a visible guarantor of David's safety and a public affirmation of the temporary reconciliation. This act is highly significant, as it publicly restores David's status and signifies Saul's (momentary) acceptance, entirely facilitated by Jonathan's courage and influence.
* **"and he was in his presence, as in times past":** This final clause describes the outcome: David's full restoration to his former position and duties within Saul's court. The phrase "as in times past" signifies a return to normalcy, where David could resume his role as a trusted servant, musician, and military leader, free from immediate threat. This marks a brief, fragile period of peace and renewed favor before Saul's jealousy would inevitably resurface.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and emotional depth. **Characterization** is prominent, vividly portraying Jonathan's unwavering loyalty, courage, and selflessness in stark contrast to Saul's volatile, impulsive, and ultimately unstable nature. Jonathan acts as a foil to Saul, highlighting the king's moral and spiritual decline and the destructive power of unchecked jealousy. **Dramatic Irony** is present, as the reader is aware that Saul's "change of heart" is temporary and that his murderous intent will inevitably resurface, making the "peace" of this verse poignant and fragile. This creates a sense of **Foreshadowing** of future conflicts, indicating that this reconciliation is merely a brief interlude in David's long struggle for survival. The narrative also uses **Repetition** of Jonathan's name and actions ("Jonathan called David, and Jonathan shewed him... And Jonathan brought David...") to underscore his central and decisive role in this moment of reconciliation and to emphasize his steadfast commitment to David.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully illustrates the power of intercession and the steadfastness of divine providence even amidst human treachery and volatile leadership. Jonathan's courageous advocacy for David is a profound example of selfless love and loyalty, reflecting a covenantal bond that transcends familial and political allegiances. Theologically, it demonstrates how God often works through human agents, even unexpected ones, to accomplish His purposes, protecting His chosen ones even when they are in grave danger. Saul's temporary change of heart, brought about by Jonathan's reasoning and God's unseen hand, underscores the divine control over the hearts of kings and the unpredictable nature of human will when not fully submitted to God. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that God's plan for David's kingship would not be thwarted, even by the most determined opposition, and that His faithfulness extends to preserving those He has chosen.

* [1 Samuel 18:3](/1_samuel/18-3 "Jonathan's Covenant with David")
* [Psalm 34:7](/psalms/34-7 "The Angel of the Lord Encamps Around Those Who Fear Him")
* [Proverbs 16:7](/proverbs/16-7 "When a man's ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The narrative of [1 Samuel 19:7](/1_samuel/19-7 "1 Samuel 19:7 - David Restored to Saul's Presence") offers timeless insights for believers navigating complex relationships and challenging circumstances. Jonathan's example calls us to courageous intercession and selfless friendship. In a world often marked by self-interest and division, his willingness to risk his own safety and future for David's sake challenges us to be advocates for the vulnerable, to speak truth to power, and to stand by those who are unjustly treated. It reminds us that true friendship is not merely companionship but a covenantal commitment to uphold and protect one another, even when it is costly or inconvenient. Furthermore, this passage encourages us to trust in God's sovereign protection amidst adversity. Just as David was preserved through Jonathan's unexpected intervention, we can rest assured that God has countless means to deliver us from harm and fulfill His purposes in our lives. Even when circumstances seem dire or relationships are volatile, we are called to maintain faith, knowing that God's plan will ultimately prevail, and that He can turn the hearts of kings and adversaries.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can I emulate Jonathan's courage and selflessness in my own friendships and relationships, especially when it requires speaking up for others?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to trust in God's protection when facing opposition or difficult situations that seem beyond my control?**
* **Are there individuals in my life for whom I need to intercede, either through prayer or direct advocacy, following Jonathan's example?**
* **What does Saul's volatile nature teach me about the importance of spiritual stability, emotional self-control, and consistent obedience to God's will?**

### FAQ
**Why did Saul change his mind so quickly after commanding David's death?**

Answer: Saul's rapid change of heart in [1 Samuel 19:6](/1_samuel/19-6 "1 Samuel 19:6 - Saul Swears an Oath") and his subsequent acceptance of David in [1 Samuel 19:7](/1_samuel/19-7 "1 Samuel 19:7 - David Restored to Saul's Presence") is primarily attributed to Jonathan's powerful and logical intercession. Jonathan reminded Saul of David's loyal service, his heroic defeat of Goliath, and how David had risked his life for Israel's deliverance. This appeal to Saul's conscience and patriotism, coupled with Jonathan's own deep respect for David, seems to have temporarily swayed the king. Additionally, it's important to recognize Saul's inherent instability and volatile temperament, which often led to sudden shifts in mood and decision-making. While he swore an oath "as the Lord lives," his spiritual and emotional state was deeply troubled, often afflicted by an evil spirit ([1 Samuel 16:14](/1_samuel/16-14 "1 Samuel 16:14 - The Spirit of the Lord Departed from Saul")), making his periods of sanity and reason fleeting. Ultimately, God's sovereign hand was also at work, protecting David for His future plans and ensuring His divine purpose would be accomplished.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The temporary peace and restoration experienced by David in [1 Samuel 19:7](/1_samuel/19-7 "1 Samuel 19:7 - David Restored to Saul's Presence"), mediated by Jonathan's courageous intercession, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate and eternal peace secured through the intercession of Jesus Christ. Jonathan, the king's son and heir, steps into the gap to plead for David, risking his own life and position to reconcile David to the reigning king. This mirrors Christ, the eternal Son of God and heir of all things, who humbled Himself to become our perfect advocate and mediator ([1 Timothy 2:5](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator, Christ Jesus")). Just as Jonathan "brought David to Saul" and restored him to the king's presence, Jesus, our great High Priest, brings us, who were once enemies of God and alienated from Him, into the very presence of the Father, reconciling us through His sacrificial death ([Romans 5:10](/romans/5-10 "Romans 5:10 - Reconciled by Christ's Death") and [Ephesians 2:13-16](/ephesians/2-13-16 "Ephesians 2:13-16 - Made Near by the Blood of Christ")). Jonathan's oath from Saul was temporary and ultimately broken due to Saul's unstable nature, but Christ's sacrifice and intercession provide a lasting, unbreakable covenant of peace and reconciliation, securing our eternal access to God's grace ([Hebrews 7:25](/hebrews/7-25 "Hebrews 7:25 - Christ's Eternal Intercession") and [Hebrews 9:12](/hebrews/9-12 "Hebrews 9:12 - Christ Entered Once for All")). David's life was preserved through divine protection for his future kingship, serving as a type of the ultimate King, Jesus, whose life was preserved through divine power to accomplish His redemptive mission and establish His eternal, unshakable kingdom ([John 10:28](/john/10-28 "John 10:28 - No One Can Snatch Them") and [Hebrews 12:28](/hebrews/12-28 "Hebrews 12:28 - A Kingdom That Cannot Be Shaken")). Thus, Jonathan's noble act points us to the infinitely greater and perfect intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ, who secures not just temporary peace, but eternal reconciliation, access to God, and everlasting life for all who believe.

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

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.