Christ-Light Connections: David and Goliath & Jonathan’s Friendship

In 1 and 2 Samuel, we meet two kings, Saul and David. One was unfaithful and the other faithful. We will study the contrasting faiths of these two men but also come to realize that they both were deeply flawed men and kings. Their flaws kept the Israelites longing for a better king – one who would love selflessly, defeat her enemies forever, and provide an everlasting kingdom.

This week, we are introduced to David. We marvel at the faith given to him and the fruits it produced. The Christ-Light theme this week is by faith we trust God’s help and establish true friendship.

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OT3 3A

David and Goliath — 1 Samuel 16:1-17:52

Context

Because of Saul’s lack of faith and obedience, God rejected him as king. But, God had in mind a new leader and had been preparing him since before his birth. David was a descendant of both Rahab and Ruth. He came from families that had been sculpted by grace.

Big Ideas

The LORD looks at the Heart (1 Samuel 16:7)

Samuel must have felt dismayed and defeated after God rejected King Saul. Israel had been warned about the tribulations a king would bring, and Saul fulfilled the warning. What a comfort it must have been when God emphasized he would choose the next king by looking at his heart.

Without more explanation, we might assume God would pick a man who was kind, loving, brave, honest, etc.. But David is described as a man after God’s own heart;(1 Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22) a man with a heart of faith.

Conversation Starters:

• How can judging someone based on their appearance be good? How can it be harmful?
• In what ways should a Christian be concerned or not concerned about his or her appearance?
• Why is it comforting for a Christian to know that God looks at the heart?

An Evil Spirit from the LORD Tormented Saul (1 Samuel 16:14)

At first, this is confusing! Why is God sending evil spirits? Does this fit into what we know about the character of God?

Now that Saul had rejected God, he had also lost the protection of the LORD. A heart that was empty of faith was open and could be occupied by an evil spirit. God sent the spirit as if to say, “This is a taste of what eternity will be like without me.” Saul had not run out of time to repent and turn back to God. God pursued faithless Saul until his death.

It is also interesting to think about the power of David’s music over the evil spirit. The sound of praise temporarily banished it!

Conversation Starter:

• How does praise affect our hearts?

Goliath (1 Samuel 17:4-11)

Take note of the thorough description of Goliath. Israel was looking at his outward appearance, and because of it, they were dismayed and terrified. Goliath was already winning the battle because he had caused Israel to be stricken with spiritual amnesia. Israel forgot how the LORD had rescued them from even greater enemies in generations past. They forgot about the promises he had made to preserve them. They forgot that the LORD was on their side.

Any situation that challenges our faith in the promises of God can be considered a Goliath in our life.

Conversation Starters:

• Name some Goliaths you have seen in the lives of others.
• Name some Goliaths you have seen in your own life.

Surrogate Warfare (1 Samuel 17:8-10)

Thank you, Goliath, for setting up such a fabulous picture of our salvation story! Analyze it.

Conversation Starters:

• What hopeless battle did we face?
• How is Goliath similar to our greatest enemy Satan?
• Who fought the battle on our behalf?
• How is Christ like David?

The Credit for the Battle (1 Samuel 17:45-47)

Saul tried to convince David to wear his own armor. If David won this battle, then Saul could at least claim some of the credit. But, such armor in this situation was silly. Either the LORD would defeat Goliath or David would be toast. Armor would not influence the outcome.

David is emphatic that the battle belonged to the LORD. There is no doubt that he wholly depended on him for victory.

Conversation Starters:

• What is the difference between bravery and faith?
• How had God nurtured David’s faith? (Recall David’s lineage and David’s past experiences.)
• Can you find any Psalms of David that reflect his confidence and trust in the LORD?

Digging Deeper

The Seeds of Faith resource provides Law and Gospel points as well as thoughtful discussion questions.

OT3 3B

Jonathan’s Friendship — 1 Samuel 18:1-19:7; 20:12-17

Context

The chaos of Saul’s heart paired with his power, will influence the rest of his reign as king of Israel, causing turmoil all around him. Christians in an unbelieving world can relate as we are affected by the actions of hearts ruled by sin in positions of power. At times, it all feels out of control. Yet God is working so that all will work out for the good of those who love him.

Big Ideas

Saul’s Heart (1 Samuel 18:8-9,15,21,29)

In previous stories, we studied Saul’s struggle with insecurity. Now that Saul had fully broken his relationship with God, his insecurities have multiplied and manifested in pride, jealousy, hatred, paranoia, manipulation, and murder.

Conversation Starters:

• How did Saul’s insecurities affect his relationships with his daughters? His son? His best warrior?
• How do our insecurities affect our relationships?
• What is the difference between Christ-esteem and self-esteem?
• How can we build up a person who struggles with insecurity?

Jonathan’s and David’s Friendship (1 Samuel 18:3-4; 20:14-17)

Jonathan’s heart starkly contrasts his father’s. Earthly speaking, David should have been his number one enemy. Jonathan had everything to lose as David grew in power and popularity. If there weren’t so many verses that described their selfless friendship, we might assume that Jonathan and David were using each other as they followed the advice to keep your enemies close.

Conversation Starters:

• Read John 15:13. How does this verse connect to the friendship of Jonathan and David?
• Insecurity gives birth to all sorts of dark sins. To what does security in Christ give birth?
• Describe an unhealthy friendship. Describe a healthy friendship.

Digging Deeper

The Seeds of Faith resource provides Law and Gospel points as well as thoughtful discussion questions.