1 Samuel - Odessa, Missouri Community of Christ

2007 Edition Dr. Constable's Notes on 1 Samuel 73Samuel seem to indicate that Jonathan was about 30 years older than David. 223 Hisresponse to David's anointing was appropriate, and it contrasts sharply with Saul'sresponse, which follows.". . . when Jonathan took off his robe (a symbol of the Israelite kingdom;cf. 15:27-28 . . .) and gave it to David (v. 4), he was in effect transferringhis own status as heir apparent to him . . ." 224"The covenant of friendship referred to in verse 3 was a unilateral (bindingon one party only) covenant in which Jonathan committed himself toDavid with complete disregard for self. The gift given by Jonathan servedto ratify the covenant and honor David." 225Jonathan's selfless action reflects his submission to Samuel's oracle that Saul would nothave a continuing dynasty (13:13-14). Rather than trying to perpetuate Saul's dynasty, asAbner later tried to do (2 Sam. 2:8-9), godly Jonathan turned over the symbols of thecrown prince to David."In our political world, where power plays such an important role, whatwould be thought of a prince who voluntarily renounced his throne infavor of a friend whose character and godly faith he admired?" 226David's commitment to God resulted in his prospering (the fertility motif). David actedwisely, the literal meaning of the Hebrew word translated "prospered" (vv. 5, 14, 15),also because God was with him (vv. 12, 14; cf. 16:13). Not only did Jonathan love David,but all the people, including even Saul's servants, those people who were most loyal tothe king, did too (v. 5). God blesses personally those who relate to Him properly. Theyalso become channels of blessing to others (cf. 2:30; Gen. 12:2).Saul may or may not have known at this time that Samuel had anointed David. Hisgrowing jealousy seems to have mounted over David's increasing ability, success, andpopularity with the people that resulted from God's help (grace).David's popularity with the people 18:6-9These verses show how David had captured the affection of many Israelites by his victoryover Goliath. Successful military heroes still do so today. Notwithstanding David'spopularity, not everyone was ready to join David's fan club, as the text proceeds toclarify. He became a controversial figure in Israel. Apparently Saul suspected that withsuch popularity David might attempt to overthrow his government. However it was223 See the chronological chart at the beginning of these notes.224 Youngblood, p. 707; cf. Gunn, p. 80.225 Laney, p. 61.226 Baldwin, p. 129.