Q4. Covenant

[Pastor Ralph]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

[Commissioned]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The covenant between David and Jonathan was of a binding oath. David receive verbal protection from Saul harming him. Jonathan receive protection from David for his linage. Both men benefit from this covenant, however Johnathan benefitied the most from this covenant, though the benefactors was Johnathan's descendants forever. The covenant is self-serving – because they both sought something. Stating that God is witness to the covenant says that they both fear God and will uphold their promise.

[EYJackson]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan is the same as it would be between any two who promised what they had promised one another, with God as their only Witness. Different from marriage vows, which pale in comparison, their vows were sacred and secret. The Hebrew word בֵּין (bayin) has a few translational options, among them "among" and "between." In making their covenant, no-one knew what words they spoke to one another except of them and God, for only God was among them. With only God among them, God as Only Witness, it meant that it was a covenant that they could not and would not break or allow to be broken, regardless of how long their houses stood.

Everyone benefitted from this covenant: David and Jonathan in those stolen moments, for the rest of their lives, and for the lives of generations yet-borne.

Stolen moments leave indelible etchings on one's spirit, mind, and heart. There will be either great love or great hate -- rarely, if anything, between the extremes. When those moments are of great love, you never forget them. The same would be so, for Jonathan and David. Those kisses and tears healed their hearts, right there, in those moments.

They bore each other no ill will, neither in binding nor parting. There would never be war between them, for only God was among the two of them. Each of them received a sacred promise to never to fight against the other. There would be no bloodshed, no taking of slaves and wives, absolutely no quarrelling for at least as long as one of them was alive to pass the covenant to future generations. There would be peace on (their pieces of) earth, forever. Peace benefits everyone.

[IvoryEagle]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? Mutual love and trust.

What does David receive? Assurance that the custom destruction of family would not happen to his descendents.

What does Jonathan receive? Assurance that the custom destruction of family would not happen to his descendents.

Who benefits the most from this covenant? David. Jonathan has every thing to lose, even heir to the throne.

Is it self-serving -- or not? Not; it is uncommon love and loyalty.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant? They both recognize God as the final word.

[Rhndwsh]

Q4.1 A promise for life a bonding between them both calling them to a high standard in keeping them.

The LORD is witness between David and Jonathan.

4.2 Protection from David from Saul harming him.

4.3 Protection from David from harming him.

4.4 They both benefits they both was in agreement not to harm each other.

4.5 It is self-serving to them both of them and they were accommodated by their oath to each other

4.6. The LORD shall be between them and between their descendants, forever. And that God is their witness.

[Semeion]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

David and Jonathan's covenant was one of friendship. In chapter 18 of 1 Samuel, David received a tunic, sword, bow and belt from Jonathan. Jonathan. In the new covenant in chapter 20 makes a covenant and says David's enemies will be called into account. Jonathan himself had David reaffirm the love they have for one another.

As a side note: There seems to be confusion as to what "kind" of love David and Jonathan has and each side has good points. And since I am no "trained" scholar, I'd just like to say that the Word itself can not contradict itself on certain events and morality codes. Sure, the bible is really ancient and some things get lost in translation, but the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is the same today, yeserday, and forevermore so I can not in my heart of hearts believe on faith that David and Jonathan had a homosexual relationship. On the flipside of things though, their behavior may appear "feminine" or "too close" in today's social structures.

Back to the question: Who benefits from this covenant? Both. Their friendship and trust in each other is stronger because of this covenant.

The significance of God's witness to this covenant because it is the Lord who is overseer of their kinship. He is faithful.

[Delivered]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

The nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan is that of "LOVE"

1Sa 20:17 And Jonathan caused David to swear again, because he loved him: for he loved him as he loved his own soul.

"LOVE" is the word "ahab", its meaning is that of "AFFECTION" - this love "ahab" is the "agape" love spoken of in (1Corinthians 13) affection or benevolence for another; specifically a love feast, the giving of and from oneself, love that comes FROM THE SOUL, or the heart of man.

Because it is not an outward manifestation, but it’s of the inward properties, it is a gift from the Holy Spirit. This kind of "love" is not just a mere romantic kind of feeling, for it is seen in its actions based on their FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD - a super natural gift from the Spirit.

What does David receive?

David received from Jonathan respect and loyalty, an oath of true friendship, with God between them as a witness, that kindness was promised between them, from generation to generation, and David left all behind him for the safety of his person and loyalty to God.

What does Jonathan receive?

Jonathan received from David an oath of friendship, with God between them as a witness that David would be kind to Jonathan, from generation to generation.

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

At that moment it was David who benefited the most, but in the long run Jonathan and his family would benefit the most.

Is it self-serving -- or not?

No, the oath promised between them was not a "self-serving" "selfish" covenant, the reason being, it was based on "LOVE", a super natural "LOVE" a gift of the Holy Spirit, and witnessed by the God of Israel, that included not just "SELF" but between each others seed for ever.

[Guitar Jim]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

It's a covenant of friendship between to very close friends. They promise before God to always be friends and to look out for each other in every way.

What does David receive?

Protection from Saul's intentions to kill him, mainly. Intel regarding the goings on in the palace. Also there is the matter of his future descendant being kept safe from Saul's descendants.

What does Jonathan receive?

Protection from David when he becomes king. David won't kill Jonathan or his family when he rises to power. That was usually the custom, to kill off potential rivals, particularly the family of the former deposed king.

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

Hard to say. David has the most to gain of course by becoming king with Jonathan's help in keeping him safe from Saul. But Jonathan and his family will also keep their lives when the expected coup happens.

Is it self-serving – or not?

No it's not. Jonathan and David make the covenant in a spirit of genuine love and friendship with no thought of gaining and advantage over each other. Jonathan recognized the inevitability of David's rise to power, even if Saul did not.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

This covenant meant so much to both men that they called God as a witness.

[Thanking Joan]

The nature of covenant between David and Jonathan is one of love,mutual trust and and strong bond with each other.

David receives protection over his life and Jonathan is protecting David from his intentions of killing david.

Jonathan receives favour for himself and his future desecendants when David is to become the King.

I think David benefits much more since his life his spared and He is able to make it to become the future King.

No its not self serving. Both have genuine love and trust for each other and both are willing to give more of themselves to each other and help each other

They valued their friendship so much they made God their witness ..

[parkerslope]

What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

It is a covenant of mutual agreement. They are close friends - they love each other as brothers - they both understand that God is involved in their relationship.

What does David receive?

David receives the information from the King's house about the intentions of King Saul.

What does Jonathan receive?

Jonathan receives the confidence that his family line will not die out. David promises to take care of Jonathan's family when he becomes king.

Who benefits most from this covenant?

I believe that David benefits most because he is given the chance to live by Jonathan's words.

Is it self serving - or not?

In a certain way it is because it helps each other, but "it is not self serving" with the thought that it preserved David to be king and Jonathan to have descendants.

What is the significance of God being a witness to the covenant?

As we know that God knows everything and knows about every covenant that is made. But here emphasis is put upon the presence of God being a witness to what was said, and this makes it more binding in my opinion.

[JanMary]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

It's a bond of friendship, an oath of loyalty, sworn before Almighty God; A true alliance, in spite of Jonathan's blood relationship with his father Saul, who despises David and wants him dead.

What does David receive?

A true friend and ally, comfort in the midst of an unjustified attack of hatred, while having to run for his life into the wilderness. It speaks of God's faithfulness toward one of His own, just as He provided the comfort of a new believer hanging on the cross next to Jesus in His most horrifying, dying moments while separated from His Father.

What does Jonathan receive?

Jonathan receives besides an ally and friend, a promise of favor in the future for his descendents when he knows his father will be dethroned and David will finally wear the crown. In Bible times, the new King often killed the family members of the previous king to protect the new kingdom and to ensure his reign.

Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not?

Up front, It appears that David benefits most, but one's posterity meant everything in those days, and being promised that Jonathan's children will have a place at David's table was huge! David was true to the covenant and found Mephibosheth, Jonathan's crippled son and cared for him after Saul and Jonathan were dead.(II Samuel 19) So, No, I would say it was not self serving as both benefitted equally.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

Both David and Jonathan honored God, and chose Him as witness, so that He would hold them accountable if either failed to honor the covenant.

[hanks]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42)

What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive?

Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving - or not?

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

In 1 Samuel 18:3-4, we read that previously David and Jonathan had made a covenant. Jonathan was the legitimate successor to his father’s throne but he showed that he was willing to give up his right so that David could become king. Rather than opposing God's will, as Saul did, Jonathan humbled himself before God's will and supported the Lord's anointed. They now strengthen their covenant by promising not to kill each other’s descendants. It was a practise in those times for kings who began a new dynasty to kill off all the descendants of a former king to prevent any uprising and threat to the throne. David receives a promise from Jonathan that they remain friends forever as well as no harm will come to David’s descendants – remembering that Saul is still king. Even although they were best friends we still see David giving proper respect to Jonathan as the king's son. Jonathan receives a promise from David that when he reigns he would protect Jonathan’s family. Later we will read that as David becomes king, David keeps his promise and Jonathan’s family benefits the most from this covenant. Jonathan called upon the Lord to witness the covenant indicating his seriousness in keeping the covenant.

[Jwalane Mofokeng]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

It is the love of Christ only Him can love

What does David receive?

Love, honesty and comfort

What does Jonathan receive?

Love and comfort from David

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

David

Is it self-serving – or not?

NO they both benefit

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

They value their friendship so much that they have asked the Lord to watch and make sure that they and their descendants keep their promise forever

[charisbarak]

It was a peace covenant.

The continued protection & support of Jonathan who knew David would eventually be king.

The peace of mind that there would always be peace between their families after David became king.

They both do. Obviously David because he did become king and Jonathan's family was shown special favor by David.

[Raph]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42)

What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

The nature of the covennant between David and Jonathan is peace; they concluded a covenant whereby the two and their decendants will live in peace, without causing harm to any of them.

What does David receive?

David receives assurances from Jonathan that he, Jonathan, will not betray David to Saul.

What does Jonathan receive?

Jonathan receives assurance from David that, when he, David, becomes the King, he will not kill the family of Jonathan.

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

Although in covenants is not a matter of who benefits most, I think Jonathan benefited a little more as this covenant assured of his life and that of his family when David becomes a King. I don't see any other better benefit than being spared life.

Is it self-serving -- or not?

I think is not.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The significance that God is witness to the covenant is in the fact that, each party will be compelled to live to the terms of the covenant when is reminded that, God witnessed the conclusion of the covenant. This witnessing means approval of the covenant by God, thus its terms are approved by God. A party will then be afraid to contravene any term of the covenant.

[Travis63]

(1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

The nature (type) of covenant between Jonathan and David was of friendship. The nature (intrinsic qualities) of the covenant was "Love", trust, and commitment. The nature (temperament) of the covenant was dedication / devotion towards the covenant regardless of the circumstances and or the potential results.

What does David receive?

David received, more than I can effectively write about. On the surface it was affirmed that he had a loyal friend, a confidant, someone to provide intelligence, a trustworthy ally.

Beyond the surface he received a pledge that is built upon love, trust, and commitment. Assurance that no matter what I got you! I got your back! I got your best interest at heart! David received affirmation that the covenant extended beyond David the man, also as long as Jonathan lived he would also extend the elements of this covenant to David's family / descendents.

What does Jonathan receive?

Jonathan receives as does David.

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

That's very difficult to say, both believed the other would honor he covenant. Looking at this question from a natural point of view most would likely say David, he was not killed, while Saul lived his family was not murdered. Some may Jonathan, he has a believed confidence that his lineage will continue.

Honestly I cannot say who benefited to most from this covenant of these two. I can say that all recipients (benefactors other than Jonathan's son{ Mephibosheth }) who gained knowledge of this covenant afterwards benefitted greatly.

Is it self-serving -- or not? When I think of self serving I think of selfishness, not sure if that's the intent of the word here, however my answer to the question is from that perspective. My answer is NO! The results after which are the results, however the covenant was established by way of mutual love, compassion, trust, loyalty, commitment, dedication, etc....

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

They both recognize God as the final word.

Both honored God, and acknowledged Him as witness to this covenant. As each lived, moved and had their being upon this oath God's watchful eye would be upon them. Because they honored Him, He would help either to fulfills their part of the covenant as they honored Him.

[Bondservantmccue]

WHAT IS THE COVENANT BETWEEN JONATHAN AND DAVID? No greater friendship could their have been between two men, some of the critics and sick people in the world want to say that David and Joanthan where homosexuals, nothing could be more wrong. Jonathan recognized David as the chosen king and treated him as such by giving him his armor and cloak. David declared that no harm would come to any of the decendants of the house of SAUL.

David received the full recognition from Jonathan that he was the anointed one of GOD and Jonathan received the benifit and full assurance that the house hold of Saul would not be harmed.

I say that the benefit of the covenant was equally shared as an assurance that it was so strong of a covnant between these two great men that no one benefited more than the other, it was as they were one person with two lives.

Maranatha;

BROTHER MIKE

[Waldo]

The covenant between David and Jonathan is one of true friendship that goes beyond their time to also bless their descendance. It is not just meant to protect each other and make sure that there is an authentic desire to seek for each other's welfare. It is also meant to insure that the love that binds the two men will be a blessing for future generations. It is the kind of heart covenant that Jesus wants us to make with Him where He looks out for us and our welfare while we look out for Him and His Kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven.

Out of this covenant David receives Jonathan's assurance that the latter will not hinder his accession to the throne promised to him by God. He also receives protection from potential harm and Jonathan's willingness to put his life at risk so that David can be rescued.

Jonathan receives David's assurance that he will look after the welfare of Jonathan's descendents and will not harm them as would have been customary for that day. Somehow, Jonathan knew that David was going to be the next king and that things would drastically change in Isarel.

It would seem that David benefits the most since Jonathan makes sure that David's life is spared and thus passes on his father's throne to David that should have normally been his to take. But at the same time, knowing the outcome of the story and the fate of Saul's family, Jonathan's covenant with David will cause a whole family line to stay alive and being well treated by David out of the friendship he had for Jonathan.

I don't believe that convenant was self-serving in nature because authentic love was the driving force behind it! It was out of a total "self-giving to the other" attitude that it was engaged. The kingdom of Israël according to the will of God was at stake here and none of them was looking out at saving their own skin (even though there were family considerations too).

God being "between" them during that oath was adding the assurance that God would be watching to make sure that the terms would be kept and that no violation would be allowed that would not involve His direct implication.

[Lion of Grace]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The nature of the covenant is friendship, based on love, trust and loyalty.

David receives Jonathan's oath that he will be loyal to David. Jonathan could have rightfully received the throne after Saul, but he knew that David was God's chosen King, so he swears the oath for all of David's enemies be defeated. That would include his own father, Saul who was David's foe. He is relinquishing the throne to David.

In return, Jonathan receives a promise that his descendants will not be destroyed when David becomes King. It was common practice when a dynasty was overthrown to kill all of the family members insuring that the threat of them ever coming to power again was gone.

Who benefits the most? I think both. David is assured the throne as God has willed, but Jonathan's whole family is spared!

I don't think the covenant was self serving. These two men had a great love for each other. It must have been hard to be in line to be King, yet know that your friend is going to receive your seat. If it was selfishness on Jonathon's part, I'm sure he would have fought against David as his father was doing! Jonathan really, in essence gave it all away for David. His family loyalty, his throne and ultimately separation from his beloved friend. David also, did not have to spare any of Jonathan's family. He was going to be King. He could do whatever he wanted. Saul had mistreated him. He could ultimately have full revenge by killing the entire generations of Saul's family. But David loved his friend Jonathan and had compassion on him, promising to even take care of Jonathan's family. That was not an act of someone only thinking of "self" it was an act of compassion for his friend and one of giving.

The significance of God being a witness to the covenant was to make it binding. Both men had great respect for God. Because they respected God, they would honor this oath taken in front of Him.

[jonesjp]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The covenant is a binding contract or oath between the both of them. David receives his word that he will not reveal anything to Saul and Jonathan receives his word that he would not forget him or his descendants when the time comes and he is appointed king. They both benefit from this covenant. Because as long as God is leading David he will overcome these trials and Jonathan himself will not live to see the benefit of the covenant but his descents will.

It is self-serving because each individual gains from this oath. Because at times we may want to break a contract but when we put God as a witness between the covenant then we know that the author and finisher of our faith is watching.

[RodR]

The covenant between David and Jonathan is mutually beneficial. David eventually receives position as king without intervention from the rightful heir and Jonathan receives safety and security for himself and his family even though David becomes king. The covenant saves both of their lives and feeds into God’s plan. The covenant is not self-serving; it is God-serving as confirmed by the fact the God is witness to it.

[blezed]

What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

1. The nature of the covenant shows the friendship,love and trust that they have for one another.

What does David receive?

2. David receives the assurance that Jonathan will not turn him over to this father.

What does Jonathan receive?

3. Jonathan receives the assurance that when David became king he would not kill him, his family nor his descendants.

Who benefits the most from this covenant?

4. They both benefited equally.

Is it self-serving – or not?

5. I don't think it was self-serving. Each one benefited.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

6. This would give comfort that each one would fulfill their part of the covenant

[haar]

Q4. (1 Samuel 20:35-42) What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan? What does David receive? What does Jonathan receive? Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving -- or not? What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

The covenant between David and Jonathan was taken with an oath before the Lord God as a witness to the two. This was thus to be a lasting covenant that was to be kept by both.

David received Jonathan's rob, tunic, sword, bow and belt and Jonathan's assurance that he would not betray David. Jonathan received David's undertaking to protect him and his family when he (David) ascended the throne.

I think Jonathan benefited the most because God had already made David king and no threat from Saul or any other person would swart God's plan. Given this position, David could take the throne and eliminate Jonathan and all his household as was the practice by kings whenever they take over a throne.

By having God as a witness, both parties would endeavour to keep the oath.

[PATCH]

What is the nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan?

The nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan is one of mutual trust and peace with the Lord as their witness, and the covenant does not end with their respective deaths, but is extended to their descendants.

What does David receive?

Jonathan will help David escape and he will not betray David to his father, King Saul. David will get a chance to be king.

What does Jonathan receive?

When David becomes king, he will not do anything to harm Jonathan and his descendents. Usually a new king would kill all the potential rivals to secure his throne. This was evident later when David not only spared Jonathan's son but invited him to feast at the King's table.

Who benefits the most from this covenant? Is it self-serving – or not?

I believe both of them benefitted from the covenant, and thus was not self-serving. David and Jonathan had a special friendship - they were almost like brothers. David was aware of Jonathan's great sacrifice and Jonathan recognised that God had chosen David to be king.

What is the significance that God is witness to the covenant?

Both were bound to keep their part of the covenant and if they did not, God will be their judge,

[Willard]

The nature of the covenant between David and Jonathan is the bond of love. David receives supprt and loyalty from his friend, just as Jonathan does likewise. They both benefit equally from this covenant, as both are doing the will of God and fulfilling their part in His plan. I don't believe either of them was self-seeking, but rather the best interest for each other and that which would be in obedience to God's will. It is significant that God is witenss to the covenant because it serves in the fulfillment of His plan for all and the generations to come in our Lord, Jesus Christ.