1 Samuel 18
BSB1 After David had finished speaking with Saul, the souls of Jonathan and David were knit together, and Jonathan loved him as himself. 2 And from that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father’s house. 3 Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 4 And Jonathan removed the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, his sword, his bow, and his belt. 5 So David marched out and prospered in everything Saul sent him to do, and Saul set him over the men of war. And this was pleasing in the sight of all the people, and of Saul’s officers as well. 6 As the troops were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs, and with tambourines and other instruments. 7 And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands." 8 And Saul was furious and resented this song. “They have ascribed tens of thousands to David,” he said, “but only thousands to me. What more can he have but the kingdom?" 9 And from that day forward Saul kept a jealous eye on David. 10 The next day a spirit of distress sent from God came upon Saul, and he prophesied inside the house while David played the harp as usual. Now Saul was holding a spear, 11 and he hurled it, thinking, “I will pin David to the wall.” But David eluded him twice. 12 So Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul. 13 Therefore Saul sent David away and gave him command of a thousand men. David led the troops out to battle and back, 14 and he continued to prosper in all his ways, because the LORD was with him. 15 When Saul saw that David was very successful, he was afraid of him. 16 But all Israel and Judah loved David, because he was leading them out to battle and back. 17 Then Saul said to David, “Here is my older daughter Merab. I will give her to you in marriage. Only be valiant for me and fight the LORD’s battles.” But Saul was thinking, “I need not raise my hand against him; let the hand of the Philistines be against him." 18 And David said to Saul, “Who am I, and what is my family or my father’s clan in Israel, that I should become the son-in-law of the king?" 19 So when it was time to give Saul’s daughter Merab to David, she was given in marriage to Adriel of Meholah. 20 Now Saul’s daughter Michal loved David, and when this was reported to Saul, it pleased him. 21 “I will give her to David,” Saul thought, “so that she may be a snare to him, and the hand of the Philistines may be against him.” So Saul said to David, “For a second time now you can be my son-in-law." 22 Then Saul ordered his servants, “Speak to David privately and tell him, ‘Behold, the king is pleased with you, and all his servants love you. Now therefore, become his son-in-law.’" 23 But when Saul’s servants relayed these words to David, he replied, “Does it seem trivial in your sight to be the son-in-law of the king? I am a poor man and lightly esteemed." 24 And the servants told Saul what David had said. 25 Saul replied, “Say to David, ‘The king desires no other dowry but a hundred Philistine foreskins as revenge on his enemies.’” But Saul intended to cause David’s death at the hands of the Philistines. 26 When the servants reported these terms to David, he was pleased to become the king’s son-in-law. Before the wedding day arrived, 27 David and his men went out and killed two hundred Philistines. He brought their foreskins and presented them as payment in full to become the king’s son-in-law. Then Saul gave his daughter Michal to David in marriage. 28 When Saul realized that the LORD was with David and that his daughter Michal loved David, 29 he grew even more afraid of David. So from then on Saul was David’s enemy. 30 Every time the Philistine commanders came out for battle, David was more successful than all of Saul’s officers, so that his name was highly esteemed.
Study Notes — 1 Samuel 18
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Samuel 18
- Themes from 1 Samuel 18
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Samuel 18
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
After David's victory over Goliath, he becomes a close friend of Jonathan, the son of King Saul. The two men make a covenant with each other, and Jonathan gives David his robe and armor as a symbol of their friendship. Meanwhile, King Saul becomes increasingly jealous of David's success and popularity, and he tries to kill David on several occasions. Despite these challenges, David continues to trust in the LORD and seek His guidance. As the chapter comes to a close, David marries Michal, the daughter of King Saul, but the king's jealousy and hatred towards David only continue to grow, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11 and 1 Samuel 18:20-22.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger narrative of 1 Samuel, which tells the story of the transition from the period of the judges to the period of the kings in Israel. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people and the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:1-5, the chapter begins with the aftermath of David's victory over Goliath, and it sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will explore the complexities of King Saul's reign and David's rise to power.
Heart Application
This chapter reminds us of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives. It also warns us about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions, and it highlights the importance of humility and trust in the LORD. As we reflect on this chapter, we are encouraged to examine our own hearts and to seek the LORD's presence and favor in our lives, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:14.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of David's growing friendship with Jonathan and his increasing success in all his undertakings. Despite the challenges and dangers that David faces, he is able to succeed because the LORD is with him, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:14. The chapter also highlights the dangers of jealousy and envy, and it reminds us of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives. As David's story continues to unfold, we see the complexities of his relationships with King Saul and Jonathan, and we are reminded of the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ.
Voices from the Church
“The LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers. As the Psalmist says, 'The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit' (Psalm 34:18).”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as a symbol of the covenant between Christ and His people. It reminds us of the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others, and it points to the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ, as seen in Hebrews 8:6-13.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- David and Jonathan's Friendship (1 Samuel 18:1-5) — The chapter begins with the story of David and Jonathan's friendship, which is marked by a deep and abiding commitment to each other. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:1-5, their friendship serves as a symbol of the covenant between Christ and His people.
- Saul's Jealousy (1 Samuel 18:6-11) — As David's success and popularity grow, King Saul becomes increasingly jealous of him. This jealousy drives much of the plot of the chapter and serves as a warning about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11.
- David's Success (1 Samuel 18:12-14) — Despite the challenges and dangers that David faces, he is able to succeed in all his undertakings because the LORD is with him. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:14.
- David's Marriage to Michal (1 Samuel 18:20-22) — The chapter ends with the story of David's marriage to Michal, the daughter of King Saul. This marriage serves as a symbol of David's growing influence and power, and it sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will explore the complexities of King Saul's reign and David's rise to power.
- Conclusion (1 Samuel 18:23-30) — The chapter concludes with a reminder of the LORD's presence and favor with David, despite the challenges and dangers that he faces. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:30.
Core Doctrines
- The Presence of God
- This chapter teaches us about the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers.
- The Dangers of Jealousy
- The chapter warns us about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11, King Saul's jealousy towards David serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and trust in the LORD.
- The Power of Covenant
- The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as a symbol of their friendship and loyalty to each other. It also foreshadows the covenant between Christ and His people, and it highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others, as seen in Hebrews 8:6-13.
- The Ultimate Redemption of Humanity
- The chapter points to the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ, as seen in Hebrews 1:1-3. The story of David's life serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and love for His people, and it points to the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death.
Lessons from 1 Samuel 18
- The Importance of Seeking the LORD's Guidance — This chapter reminds us of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers.
- The Dangers of Jealousy and Envy — The chapter warns us about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11, King Saul's jealousy towards David serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and trust in the LORD.
- The Power of Covenant and Commitment — The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as a symbol of their friendship and loyalty to each other. It also foreshadows the covenant between Christ and His people, and it highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others.
- The Ultimate Redemption of Humanity — The chapter points to the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ, as seen in Hebrews 1:1-3. The story of David's life serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and love for His people, and it points to the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death.
- The Importance of Trusting in the LORD — This chapter reminds us of the importance of trusting in the LORD and seeking His guidance in our lives. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers.
Themes from 1 Samuel 18
- The Presence of God — This chapter teaches us about the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers.
- The Dangers of Jealousy and Envy — The chapter warns us about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11, King Saul's jealousy towards David serves as a reminder of the importance of humility and trust in the LORD.
- The Power of Covenant and Commitment — The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as a symbol of their friendship and loyalty to each other. It also foreshadows the covenant between Christ and His people, and it highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others.
- The Ultimate Redemption of Humanity — The chapter points to the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ, as seen in Hebrews 1:1-3. The story of David's life serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and love for His people, and it points to the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death.
- The Importance of Trusting in the LORD — This chapter reminds us of the importance of trusting in the LORD and seeking His guidance in our lives. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers.
Questions for Meditation
- How does the LORD's presence with David serve as a reminder of His presence in our own lives?
- What are some ways in which we can seek the LORD's guidance and trust in His presence in our lives, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:14?
- How does the covenant between David and Jonathan serve as a symbol of the covenant between Christ and His people?
- What are some dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions, and how can we avoid these dangers in our own lives, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:8-11?
- How does the story of David's life serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and love for His people, and how does it point to the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. David and Jonathan's Friendship (1 Samuel 18:1-5)
| 18:1 | The chapter begins with the story of David and Jonathan's friendship, which is marked by a deep and abiding commitment to each other. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:1-5, their friendship serves as a symbol of the covenant between Christ and His people. |
| 18:2 | Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father's house. Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. |
2. Saul's Jealousy (1 Samuel 18:6-11)
| 18:6 | When the men were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out from all the towns of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs and with timbrels and lyres. |
| 18:7 | As they danced, they sang: 'Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.' |
3. David's Success (1 Samuel 18:12-14)
| 18:12 | Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with David but had departed from Saul. |
| 18:13 | Therefore Saul sent him away and made him a commander over a thousand men, and David led the troops out to battle and brought them back. |
| 18:14 | David had success in all his undertakings, for the LORD was with him. |
4. David's Marriage to Michal (1 Samuel 18:20-22)
| 18:20 | Now Saul's daughter Michal was in love with David, and when they told Saul about it, he was pleased. |
| 18:21 | 'I will give her to him,' he thought, 'so that she may be a snare to him and so that the hand of the Philistines may be against him.' So Saul said to David, 'Now you have a second opportunity to become my son-in-law.' |
5. Conclusion (1 Samuel 18:23-30)
| 18:23 | When Saul's servants spoke these words to David, he replied, 'Is it trivial in your eyes to become the king's son-in-law? I am only a poor man and little known.' |
| 18:24 | When Saul's servants told him what David had said, Saul replied, 'Say to David, 'The king wants no other price for the bride than a hundred Philistine foreskins, to take revenge on his enemies.'' |
| 18:25 | Saul's plan was to have David fall by the hands of the Philistines. |
| 18:26 | When the attendants told David these things, he was pleased to become the king's son-in-law. So before the days were over, David took his men and went out and killed two hundred Philistines and brought back their foreskins. |
| 18:27 | They counted out to the king the full number of the foreskins and presented them to the king, so that he might become the king's son-in-law. Then Saul gave him his daughter Michal as his wife. |
| 18:28 | Saul realized that the LORD was with David and that Michal, Saul's daughter, loved David. |
| 18:29 | Saul became still more afraid of David, and he remained David's enemy the rest of his days. |
| 18:30 | The commanders of the Philistines went out to battle, and whenever they did, David was more successful than the rest of Saul's officers, and his name became well known. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of David and Jonathan's friendship?
David and Jonathan's friendship serves as a symbol of the covenant between Christ and His people. It also highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:1-5.
Why did King Saul become jealous of David?
King Saul became jealous of David because of his success and popularity, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:6-11. This jealousy ultimately led to Saul's downfall and David's rise to power.
What is the significance of David's marriage to Michal?
David's marriage to Michal serves as a symbol of his growing influence and power, as seen in 1 Samuel 18:20-22. It also sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will explore the complexities of King Saul's reign and David's rise to power.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Samuel 18:1 → John 15:13 | The friendship between David and Jonathan serves as a reminder of the importance of loving one another, as seen in John 15:13. |
| 2 | 1 Samuel 18:8 → Proverbs 27:4 | Saul's jealousy towards David serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions, as seen in Proverbs 27:4. |
| 3 | 1 Samuel 18:14 → Psalm 23:4 | The LORD's presence with David serves as a reminder of His presence in our own lives, as seen in Psalm 23:4. |
| 4 | 1 Samuel 18:20 → Genesis 29:18 | David's marriage to Michal serves as a reminder of the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others, as seen in Genesis 29:18. |
| 5 | 1 Samuel 18:25 → Matthew 5:38-42 | Saul's plan to have David fall by the hands of the Philistines serves as a reminder of the importance of loving our enemies, as seen in Matthew 5:38-42. |
| 6 | 1 Samuel 18:28 → 1 Corinthians 13:13 | The love between David and Michal serves as a reminder of the importance of love in our relationships with others, as seen in 1 Corinthians 13:13. |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 18:29 → Psalm 55:12-14 | Saul's continued hatred towards David serves as a reminder of the dangers of allowing bitterness and anger to control our actions, as seen in Psalm 55:12-14. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 18:30 → 2 Timothy 4:7 | David's success in battle serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in the LORD and seeking His guidance in our lives, as seen in 2 Timothy 4:7. |
Sermons on 1 Samuel 18
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(1 Samuel) Attacked, but Blessed by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of responding to manipulation with love and humility. He uses the example of the Roman soldiers and Jewish men during Jesus' time |
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(Men God Made) David by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David from the Bible. He starts by mentioning Samuel and how he did what the Lord commanded him to do. The speaker then talks abo |
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Couples Night - Part 5 by Keith Daniel | This sermon delves into the challenges and dynamics of marriage, drawing examples from historical figures like John Wesley and biblical characters like David and his wife. It explo |
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Provision of the Covenant - Part 2 by Bill Stafford | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding God's covenant with His people. He explains that through the covenant, believers become one with Christ and |
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(1 Samuel) How to Not Fight Back by David Guzik | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of David playing the harp for King Saul. He highlights the stark contrast between David's submission to God and Saul's violent natur |
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(Through the Bible) 1 Samuel by Zac Poonen | This sermon delves into the contrasting lives of Saul and David in the book of 1 Samuel. It highlights Saul's downfall due to disobedience, fear of people, lack of repentance, and |
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Walking With a Free Spirit Based on Gratitude by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of walking with a free spirit rooted in gratitude, using David's life as a model. Despite facing extreme highs and lows, including being pursu |
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Foundation to David's Intimacy With God: Confidence in Love by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle emphasizes the foundation of David's intimacy with God, which is rooted in his confidence in God's love. He explores how David, despite his rise to prominence and the a |
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David: Walking With Confidence in God (1 Sam. 18) by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle emphasizes David's remarkable confidence in God as he navigates the drastic changes in his life, from being celebrated after defeating Goliath to facing jealousy and ad |
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Overview of the Life of David: The Five Key Cities and Seasons by Mike Bickle | Mike Bickle emphasizes the dramatic life of David, exploring the five key cities that represent different seasons in his journey. He highlights how David, despite being overlooked |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Samuel 18
In this chapter, we see the growing friendship between David and Jonathan, as well as the increasing jealousy of King Saul towards David. The LORD's presence with David is a reminder of His presence in our own lives, and it serves as a warning against the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The way to be safe from the snares of envy is to be humble and lowly, and not to seek our own glory, but the glory of God.' The chapter also highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others, and it points to the ultimate redemption of humanity through Christ. As seen in 1 Samuel 18:14, the LORD's presence with David is a reminder that He is always with us, even in the midst of challenges and dangers. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The LORD's Presence
Throughout the chapter, the LORD's presence and favor with David are emphasized. This serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking the LORD's guidance and trusting in His presence in our lives.
The Dangers of Jealousy
King Saul's jealousy towards David serves as a warning about the dangers of allowing jealousy and envy to control our actions. It also highlights the importance of humility and trust in the LORD.
The Power of Covenant
The covenant between David and Jonathan serves as a symbol of their friendship and loyalty to each other. It also foreshadows the covenant between Christ and His people, and it highlights the importance of commitment and loyalty in our relationships with others.