Saul and Jonathan-continued

A man’s relationship with God is in direct correlation to his relationship with his father.

Jonathan was uncertain of his relationship with his father indicated by his uncertainty of his relationship with God. He may not have had a relationship with God at all, just an observer of how others related to God. He said, “PERHAPS the Lord will work for us”. (14.6)

Jonathan was able to discern the will of God however by “laying out a fleece”, a practice like casting lots, which he had seen others use.

Saul had little regard for his son.

Saul showed little regard for his son when he failed to tell Jonathan that there was a ban on food and goes so far as “cursing the man” who eats. (14:24)

A rebellious man can still be a friend of others.

Jonathan had a good relationship with others that may have sided with him against his father’s compulsive behaviors. We see them gather around him when Saul condemns him to death. (14.44) Jonathan also speaks well of others and knows how to make an appeal on their behalf. His appeals are persuasive. (19.4-6)

He was not a person who was prideful as he speaks of his efforts as, “giving them into the hands of Israel” rather than “giving them into MY hands”. (14:12)

Saul and Jonathan had no relationship.

Jonathan was told all that Saul did but in the light of their relationship, this may have been "table time discussions" or boasting on the part of Saul. (20.2)

Jonathan was deceptive with his father. (20.6, 28)

Saul’s anger burns against Jonathan and he claims that Jonathan is from the lineage of perversion and rebellion. This is an accurate statement as earlier noted: the perversion of the Benjamites and later: God’s condemnation of Saul’s rebellion and insubordination. (20.30, 15.23) Jonathan continued to struggle with these sins.

Saul’s true heart is disclosed when he tries to kill his son and he makes no effort to save Jonathan when the witch of Endor’s spirit foretells of their death the following day. (20.32, 28.19)

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