Christ-Light Connections: David’s Kindness toward Saul & The Deaths of Saul and Jonathan

It’s the crowned king of Israel versus the anointed king; at least, that is how Saul sees it. The very existence of David, the man chosen and loved by God, is a threat to Saul, who has rejected God and been rejected by God. King Saul has declared a personal war against David, a war that would not end until one of them was dead.  

On the other hand, David refused to engage Saul in war. In radical obedience to the LORD, David continued to respect Saul as king, even at the risk of his own life.

The Christ-Light theme this week is out of love for God we don’t desire revenge or trouble for others.

OT3 4A

David’s Kindness toward Saul —1 Samuel 19, 20, 22-26

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Context

These chapters cover some of David’s darkest days. He is constantly on the run, never knowing who he can trust or who he is putting in danger. Those who should be his allies betray him, and those who should be his enemies shelter him. This man who practiced radical obedience is suffering greatly. As you study, reflect on how God used this time of David’s life to prepare him, mold him, and mature him. What experiences did God use to teach David that he is a trustworthy God?

Big Ideas

Saul’s Murderous Rampage (1 Samuel 19; 1 Samuel 22:6-20)

Paranoia, jealousy, and insanity now rule Saul’s heart. He clings to the throne at all costs, even at the possible expense of his own son’s life. Not only is Saul waging war against David, but he is waging war against God as he murders the priests and their families at Nob.

Conversation Starter:

• Read Psalm 52, David’s reaction to the massacre at Nob. How does David describe evil? What comforts David?

David Rescues Keilah (1 Samuel 23)

Because King Saul was occupied pursuing David, he left his country unprotected. The Philistines seized the opportunity to loot the harvest at the town of Keilah. It would have been logical for David to ignore the situation saying, “That is King Saul’s problem. Let him either risk his own life or destroy his own reputation.” But the man after God’s own heart was compelled to rescue Keilah. We see David’s godly leadership as he twice inquires of the LORD for his guidance, and his men follow him into a risky battle.

Conversation Starters:

• Where did David find the courage to act? (This will be a repeating theme!)
• Notice how the town responds to David’s actions (1 Samuel 23:12). Why do you think the town was willing to give David up to Saul? How do you think this affected David and his men?

Abigail and Nabal (1 Samuel 25)

In between David’s two noble acts of mercy toward King Saul, is the story of David’s reaction to evil Nabal. Commentaries help us understand that it would have been customary and expected for Nabal to pay or tip the men who protected his flock, especially David’s men, who went above and beyond expectations. David, the former shepherd, could not bear Nabal’s great insult.

Conversation Starters:

• Doesn’t it seem uncharacteristic of David to threaten to massacre Nabal’s estate? What do you think is going on in David’s heart?
• How did Abigail act in godly wisdom? How did she show respect to both Nabal and David?
• Why do you think David married Abigail? What characteristics would make her a good wife?

David’s Mercy (1 Samuel 24, 26)

Again, David’s character shines like a light in the darkness. Who could blame David for killing Saul in the name of self-defense? After all, wouldn’t Israel be better off with a king who wasn’t insane? Taking Saul’s life would have been more than easy to justify, possibly even encouraged. David’s obedience was radical and illogical according to human standards. The same faith that was brave enough to slay Goliath was courageous enough to obey God and let him be the defender of his life.

Although it doesn’t seem that Saul’s faith ever made a recovery, David’s acts of mercy did affect him at least for a time. Check out Saul’s responses to David. (1 Samuel 24:16-21; 26:21-25)

Conversation Starters:

• Do you think David was ever tempted to regret obeying the LORD? Read Psalm 69 for insight into David’s struggling heart.
• How is David’s love for Saul comparable to Christ’s love for us?
• Read 1Samuel 26:24. Tuck this message away and recall it later when we study David and Uriah.

Digging Deeper

OT3 4B

The Deaths of Saul and Jonathan — 1 Samuel 28, 31; 2 Samuel 1, 5, 9

Context

David was still on the run from King Saul. Now he was living with Israel’s enemy, the Philistines. During this time of strife and suffering, David wrote multiple psalms revealing a faith that swung back and forth between desperation and confidence in the LORD. His psalms are a treasure for any Christian living and struggling in this dark world of sin.

Big Ideas

Saul’s Final Days (1 Samuel 28)

Saul was a spiritual mess. 1 Samuel 28:5 shows that he still acknowledged the LORD’s existence and power, but the lack of answer from God indicated that the LORD did not find favor with him. Saul did not have a repentant faith that looked to the LORD for salvation. In desperation, Saul turned to the occult for help. How mysterious that God should allow Samuel to meet with Saul and send him a message. Was this one final call for repentance?

Conversation Starters:

• Why do you think God ignored Saul’s inquiries (1 Samuel 28:6)?
• Do you think Saul spoke with Samuel or a demon? Defend your answer.

David’s Reaction (2 Samuel 1, 2)

Now David was safe. Now David could rightfully claim the throne. How could he grieve so profoundly over the death of his enemy? How could he create a eulogy with such high praise for King Saul? With the miraculous eyes of faith, David was able to forgive Saul and give him the respect that a king deserved. From David’s perspective, Saul was not the enemy.

Satan would love to work in our hearts to cause us to forget who our real enemy is. Are those who hate us or persecute us the enemy? No, the real enemy is Satan himself, who would have us turn against other souls and even ultimately turn against God. Only through faith can we clearly see who the real enemy is.

Conversation Starters:

• Who does Satan want you to believe your enemies are?
• Read Romans 5:6-8, Who were God’s enemies? How did he respond to them?

Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9)

This story is a striking picture of grace. In most circumstances, the grandson of the former king would be considered a threat to be eliminated. Yet here, David shows unexpected loving kindness as he invites Mephibosheth to live with him and dine at his table.

Conversation Starters:

• In this story, how is King David like God and Mephibosheth like us?
• Listen to this song that compares Mephibosheth and us.

Digging Deeper

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