It is an invisible power that sets bounds to the malice of the church’s enemies, and suffers them not to do that which we should think there is nothing to hinder them from.II. Now he follows God and Jonathan into battle. We may request cookies to be set on your device. Saul is probably trying to look spiritual here, but there was nothing to seek God about. i. Jonathan did not doubt a word from God; he doubted his own heart and mind. And the people rushed on the spoil, and took sheep, oxen, and calves, and slaughtered, with the blood. Saul and the priest with the ephod sat back while Jonathan bravely trusted God. It was. Their obedience to. Saul, Jonathan, and the Philistines (1 Samuel 13:15-14:15) 11. The names Urim and Thummim mean “Lights and Perfections.” We aren’t sure what they were or how they were used. And when the people had come into the woods, there was the honey, dripping; but no one put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath. Click to enable/disable _ga - Google Analytics Cookie. Insight, commentary and analysis. Certainly not! 1 and 2 Samuel form one book in the ancient Hebrew manuscripts. On this day of battle, because of Saul’s foolish command, the people were so hungry they broke this command. d. He did not tell his father: Perhaps this was just an oversight, or something easily and properly explained. a. Saul put the army of Israel under an oath, so he could take vengeance on his enemies. 1 Samuel 14. Saul didn’t know what time this was. There came a day in his life when Jonathan decided life was too precious to waste. with Saul and Jonathan. We'll send you an email with steps on how to reset your password. The people who were with him were about six hundred men. They were all tired and hungry. c. But Jonathan had not heard his father charge the people with the oath: Because of this, Jonathan ate some of that honey and immediately, it did the weary soldier well: his countenance brightened. But that didn’t mean very much because he was not good at having a heart after God and he was not good at keeping the oaths he made. Gideon had a confirmed word of God to guide him, and he doubted God’s word. By proceeding, you consent to our cookie usage. Now there was fierce war with the Philistines all the days of Saul. This was the first altar that he built to the LORD. Saul didn’t know what time this was. Of the weakness of Saul, who seems here to have been quite at a loss, and unable to help himself. Said to the young man who bore his armor: Every “officer” in the Israelite army had an “assistant” known as an armor bearer. : Perhaps Jonathan should not have said this. Something had to be done, and Jonathan was willing to let God use him. If any such fast was to be declared and a curse attached to it, Samuel had the spiritual authority to do it, not Saul. Saul’s strength was broad over many areas. God was just waiting for someone with the bold trust of Jonathan. : Saul wanted to find the wrong doer by the casting of lots. The Israelites are overcome by the Philistines at Ebenezer. If the Israelites had no swords, the LORD would use the swords of the Philistines against the Philistines. : Jonathan knew that the battle was the LORD’s, yet he knew God would use him to fight. He may choose not to act until we partner with Him in trust. Commentary on 1 Samuel 13:8-14 (Read 1 Samuel 13:8-14) Saul broke the order expressly given by Samuel, see 1 Samuel 10:8, as to what should be done in cases of extremity. He lost his royal abilities and achievements; he that was before in bellis acer et victor, factus est imbellis, ignavus, iners, nec quidquam praeclare gessit. These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. 1 Samuel 14:3. Saul was very good at making religious oaths and promises. He proposed, as soon as his soldiers had got their suppers, to pursue them all night, and, Here is a general account of Saul’s court and camp. While Saul talked to the priest… the noise which was in the camp of the Philistines continued to increase; so Saul said to the priest, “Withdraw your hand.”, Eventually, the noise of God and Jonathan fighting against the Philistines became so loud that Saul knew he had to also fight. : Jonathan, in his bold trust in the LORD, had just struck a mighty blow against the Philistines. God had a trusting partner in Jonathan. g. The people did not know that Jonathan was gone: This indicates that Jonathan did not go over to the Philistine garrison out of a desire for personal glory. If the Philistines invited themselves up, they would know that it was God's will to fight. Now it was the job of the army of Israel, under King Saul, to finish the job by striking down the fleeing Philistine army. Seizing God’s Opportunities 1 Samuel 14:1-15 John Wycliffe lived 200 years before the Protestant Reformation, which ushered in a belief system that moved the church away from Roman Catholicism, and towards a belief in God and the Scriptures as the source of divine revelation. AGAINST GREAT ODDS . : The only thing that can be said to restrain God is our. (1 Samuel 14:1) he would have never found this strategic place. b. On this day of battle against the Philistines Saul declared a curse: “Cursed is the man who eats any food until evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.”, i. sat back while Jonathan bravely trusted God. : Because of this, Jonathan ate some of that honey and immediately, it did the weary soldier well: . Between the passes… there was a sharp rock on one side and a sharp rock on the other side: On his way to the Philistine garrison, Jonathan saw a strategic position – a narrow path through a pass with large, sharp rocks on either side. Look, the Hebrews are coming out of the holes where they have hidden. a. He proposed a test based on the response of the Philistine guards. This meant, “Stop seeking an answer from God with the urim and thummin,” which were held in a pouch in the priest’s breastplate. So Saul established his sovereignty over Israel, : This last passage in the chapter is all about, . was really at fault. The Israeli army was hot on the pursuit of the fleeing Philistines. 1 Samuel chapter 4: 1Sa 4:1-2. 1. with him assembled, and they went to the battle; and indeed every man’s sword was against his neighbor, very great confusion. But the people did not know that Jonathan had gone. The armor bearer helped the officer in battle and in the administration of the army. And as he came after him, his armorbearer killed them. a. Now there was fierce war with the Philistines all the days of Saul. 2 Saul was staying under a big fruit tree at Migron near Gibeah. mean “Lights and Perfections.” We aren’t sure what they were or how they were used. The name of Saul’s wife, Ahinoam the daughter of Ahimaaz. 1Sa 3:15-18. Saul should have sought the, : Saul inquired of the LORD through the priest. Saul showed that even in doing something spiritual like fasting his focus is on. Jonathan had little faith in himself but great faith in God. Jonathan was Saul's son. . a. i. He was willing to take it one step at a time, and let God plan it out. He needed the energy to fight, and here it was, provided by God. i. iii. I have walked before you from my youth until this day. Then Jonathan said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised; it may be that the LORD will work for us. Changes will take effect once you reload the page. Finally, God’s approval was evident from His great blessing on Jonathan (he has worked with God today). As the LORD lives, not one hair of his head shall fall to the ground, for he has worked with God this day.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die. For now would there not have been a much greater slaughter among the Philistines?”, : This was provision from God. a. In 1 Samuel 14, we discover that Jonathan was an incredible soldier who possessed an amazing faith in the LORD. Loyalty is the greatest asset of any L eader both in times of crisis and in prosperity. Click to enable/disable _gid - Google Analytics Cookie. (36-39) In response to God’s silence, Saul makes another foolish oath. a. Instead, he followed the bold hope and impression of his heart. c. For as the LORD lives, who saves Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely die: This shows how sure Saul was that he was right. Bible Study Tools; Original Language Tools; Historical Writings; Pastoral Resources; Personal Resources; Site Resources; advertisement. Then Saul said to the people who were with him, “Now call the roll and see who has gone from us.” And when they had called the roll, surprisingly, Jonathan and his armorbearer were not there. ‘You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you; if you had, he would have established your kingdom over Israel for all time. i. (20-23) Saul fights in the battle and a great victory is won. Call the roll: This was useless at the moment. But he told not his father." “God is ever on the outlook for believing souls, who will receive his power and grace on the one hand, and transmit them on the other. They melted away like snow before the sun, and. Saul started out as a humble man (1 Samuel 10:21), but his once impressive humility was overtaken by pride. Now Saul said, “Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and plunder them until the morning light; and let us not leave a man of them.” And they said, “Do whatever seems good to you.” Then the priest said, “Let us draw near to God here.” So Saul asked counsel of God, “Shall I go down after the Philistines? Click on the different category headings to find out more. : This was useless at the moment. You can check these in your browser security settings. To this point, he does not act on a specific, confirmed word from God. You have dealt treacherously: Saul blamed the people for what was really his own fault. Get a Copy of This KJV Bible - https: ... "The men-which had hid themselves" - See 1 Samuel xiii. 1 A young man carried Jonathan's armour. Proud member Why would we need to know that the priest with Saul, Ahijah, was the nephew of Ichabod? Instead of admitting that the commandment and death sentence were foolish, Saul hardened his foolishness and declared “God do so and more also; for you shall surely die, Jonathan.”. i. And Saul said, “Cast, between my son Jonathan and me.” So Jonathan was taken. 2. You can also change some of your preferences. 1. of the land came to a forest; and there was honey on the ground. It was the LORD’s victory. But God will often do miracles – what He alone can do – if we will do what we can do. Look, the Hebrews are coming out of the holes where they have hidden: At this time of crisis the Israelites hid anywhere they could (1 Samuel 13:6). The request for Samuel's aid (1 Sa 9:5-14) The suggestion of Saul's servant (1 Sa 9:5-10) The directions of the women (1 Sa 9:11-14) The preparation of Samuel (1 Sa 9:15-17) The meeting of Saul and Samuel (1 Sa 9:18-27) Saul's anointing by Samuel (1 Sa 10:1-16) The anointing and instructions by Samuel (1 Sa 10:1-8) JONATHAN'S PROPOSAL - Vss. But he told not his father. Because Saul was not a man after God’s own heart and because his own relationship with God was more about image than substance, his kingdom cannot last. Certainly not! a. The son of Saul believed if the entire company ate they would have destroyed more Philistines completely. We need 2 cookies to store this setting. with his pseudo-spiritual command to fast. Wherever he turned, he harassed, . 1 Samuel 14 – Victory Over the Philistines A. Jonathan’s adventure in faith. i. Samuel, though loath, tells Eli the vision. We want God to do a great work, so we should fast today. The book of 1 Samuel records a major change from the time of the judges to *Israel’s first king. i. 5. “Strange perverseness! But if they say thus, ‘Come up to us,’ then we will go up. . b. Our website uses cookies to store user preferences. Instead, he was probably worried about who was leading the battle and who would get the credit. 2 Samuel 1:18; 1 Kings 11:41; 14:19, 29; 1 Chronicles 27:24; 29:29 all refer to these writers and their books. At least Saul did some of what was right after he did what was wrong. But Jonathan knew that God uses the bold action and fighting spirit of His people. : At this time of crisis the Israelites hid anywhere they could (1 Samuel 13:6). d. Not a man among all the people answered him: The people knew Jonathan ate the honey, and Saul’s sentence of death on anyone who had eaten must have sent a chill up their back. Jonathan could strengthen himself in promises such as Leviticus 26:8: Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you. And the people rushed on the spoil, and took sheep, oxen, and calves, and slaughtered them on the ground; and the people ate them with the blood. And when Saul saw any strong man or any valiant man, he took him for himself. And the men of Israel were distressed that day, for Saul had placed the people under oath, saying, “Cursed is the man who eats any food until evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” So none of the people tasted food. CHAPTER 14. Jonathan Miraculously Smites the Philistines' Garrison. Because Saul was not a man after God’s own heart and because his own relationship with God was more about image than substance, his kingdom cannot last. e. Saul was sitting: This was a big contrast to Jonathan. 6. It was reasonable for the Philistines to think these were Hebrew deserters surrendering to the Philistines because they thought it was better than hiding in a hole. He had a large and influential family. Through this curse, Saul put the focus back on himself. Plug in, Turn on and Be En light ened! a. They are just as important in getting God’s work done as the man God uses. Pulpit Commentary. The front of one faced northward opposite Michmash, and the other southward opposite Gibeah. Now the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked, and there was the multitude, melting away; and they went here and there. Wherever he turned, he harassed them. It wasn’t “I can win a great victory with God’s help.” It was “God can win a great victory through even me.”. Samuel’s Farewell Address. There is nothing wrong with fasting itself, but this wasn’t the right day. Most think they were a pair of stones, one light and another dark, and each stone indicated a “yes” or “no” from God. So now I must die!” And Saul answered, “God do so and more also; for you shall surely die, Jonathan.”. Jonathan proposed that he and his armor bearer reveal themselves to the Philistines. (11-14) Jonathan and his armor bearer attack the Philistines. Then Saul returned from pursuing the Philistines, and the Philistines went to their own place. Then he said to all Israel, “You be on one side, and my son Jonathan and I will be on the other side.” And the people said to Saul, “Do what seems good to you.” Therefore Saul said to the LORD God of Israel, “Give a perfect lot.” So Saul and Jonathan were taken, but the people escaped. may be restrained by our unbelief. Salem Media Group. On this occasion, the priest probably started inquiring of the LORD with this question: “LORD, do you want to speak to us today?” Because we are told He did not answer him that day, the stone that indicated “no” kept being drawn out. Ahijah the son of Ahitub, Ichabod’s brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the LORD’s priest in Shiloh, was wearing an ephod. These Hebrew servants of the Philistines probably hated their masters but were afraid to stand free in the LORD. They needed energy to continue the pursuit and finish the battle. Between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp rock on one side and a sharp rock on the other side. There was a sense in which he was undercutting his father’s authority before the troops. They only came out for Israel when victory was assured. Legalistic rules lead us into sin because they either provoke our rebellion or they lead us into legalistic pride. B. , we won’t see much victory and we won’t be used much. Many in Israel probably believed this as theological truth but few believed it enough to do something. The people rushed on the spoil… and the people ate them with the blood, : God specifically commanded Israel that they should always properly drain the blood from an animal before they butchered it (Deuteronomy 12:23-25). Saul is probably trying to look spiritual here, but there was nothing to seek God about. It all started with one man who dared to take an initiative! Some of the most recognized are the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, Martin Luther's nailing his 95 Theses on Castle Church door, the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Armstrong's walk on the moon, and the 9-11 terrorist attack. i. All the people loved and respected Jonathan and they knew that Saul was in the wrong. King Saul just wanted to sit under a pomegranate tree. Saul should go and fight the Philistines at this strategic moment. - Now it came to pass upon a day. We have here an account of the distress of the children of Israel, even in the day of their triumphs. The strength of Saul’s army grew (, when Saul saw any strong man or any valiant man, he took him for himself. The Philistines were, by the power of God, set against one another. The writer of 1 and 2 Samuel probably got most of his information from these accounts. But if they say thus, ‘Come up to us,’ then we will go up. We want God to do a great work, so we should fast today. It was Saul’s day to fast, not the LORD’s day to fast. a. Saul and Jonathan were taken, but the people escaped: Saul wanted to find the wrong doer by the casting of lots. i. Saul was willing to kill his son rather than to humbly admit that he was really at fault. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website. : For Jonathan, this was more than a reconnaissance expedition. Jonathan had a loyal helper. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer. Instead, he was probably worried about who was leading the battle and who would get the credit. There is nothing wrong with fasting itself, but this wasn’t the right day. All the people loved and respected Jonathan and they knew that Saul was in the wrong. When charged with disobedience, he justified himself in what he had done, and gave no sign of repentance for it. Click to enable/disable Google Analytics tracking. And Saul was sitting in the outskirts of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which is in Migron. For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few.” So his armorbearer said to him, “Do all that is in your heart. A few men could easily fight against a much larger number at this strategic place. The people rushed on the spoil… and the people ate them with the blood: God specifically commanded Israel that they should always properly drain the blood from an animal before they butchered it (Deuteronomy 12:23-25). They were all tired and hungry. Of the goodness of God in restraining the Philistines, who had a vast army of valiant men in the field, from falling upon that little handful of timorous trembling people that Saul had with him, whom they would easily have swallowed up at once. ii. But the people did not know that Jonathan had gone. Jonathan was not the kind to say, “Well, it would be nice to do this. With Explore the Bible, groups can expect to engage Scripture in its proper context and be better prepared to live it out in their own context. The Designation of David as King (1 Samuel 16:1-23) 14. EasyEnglish is a system of simple English designed by Wycliffe Associates (UK). How much better if the people had eaten freely today of the spoil of their enemies which they found! Will You deliver them into the hand of Israel?” But He did not answer him that day. including Ahijah, the son of Ahitub, Ichabod's brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the priest … But he told not his father. i. : As the watchmen of Israel kept an eye on the huge army of the Philistines, the army started to melt away as they watched. The sons of Saul were Jonathan, Jishui and Malchishua. (45-46) The people rescue Jonathan from execution. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. King Saul had indeed troubled the land with his pseudo-spiritual command to fast. b. 300 Bible study articles that explain clearly every verse in 1 Samuel. This was not the same as Gideon’s setting of a fleece (Judges 6:36-40). So Saul asked counsel of God: This was good. ” in the Hebrew is very close to the word for, : Saul was shaken. Then Saul and all the people who were with him assembled, and they went to the battle; and indeed every man’s sword was against his neighbor, and there was very great confusion. Imagine Saul’s shock when the lot indicated that he and Jonathan were the guilty group! ii. Did it matter if it was a million-to-one or a thousand-to-one? Such is the nature of our bodies, that daily work cannot be done without daily bread, which therefore our Father in heaven graciously gives. d. My father has troubled the land: Perhaps Jonathan should not have said this. : This indicates that Jonathan took the support of his armor bearer as confirmation. And Saul said, “Cast lots between my son Jonathan and me.” So Jonathan was taken. The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them: You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page. A few men could easily fight against a much larger number at this strategic place. Despite all that. Commentary on 1 Samuel 14:24-35 (Read 1 Samuel 14:24-35) Saul's severe order was very unwise; if it gained time, it lost strength for the pursuit. No matter what Saul’s motive was, this was foolish. The name of Saul’s wife was Ahinoam the daughter of Ahimaaz. No one put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath: This group of soldiers saw the honey dripping right in front of their eyes. If he regarded it as his battle, he should simply fast himself. Or, it may be that Jonathan deliberatelydid not tell his father, because he believed his father would have simply said “no.”. We left the host of Israel in a very ill posture, in the close of the foregoing chapter; we saw in them no wisdom, nor strength, nor goodness, to give us ground to expect any other than that they should all be cut off by the army of the Philistines; yet here we find that infinite power which works without means, and that infinite goodness which gives without merit, glorified in a happy turn to their affairs, that still Samuel’s words may be made good: "The Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name’s sake,’’ (. Often, we wait around for God to do what, can do. . If anyone wants to join me, they are welcome.” But instead of leading by example and inviting the army of Israel to follow, he, The men of Israel were distressed that day, the result among the army of Israel was wrong. And Saul was sitting in the outskirts of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which. God had a trusting partner in Jonathan. a. But on this day, God would win a great victory through the bold trust of Jonathan. I will enforce this among the whole army with a curse.”. 1 Samuel 14 Commentary, One of over 110 Bible commentaries freely available, this commentary is one of the most respected interdenominational commentaries ever written. 1 Samuel: Bible Study and Commentary. God was going to use Jonathan, but He wasn’t going to use Jonathan alone. He should have never made such a foolish commandment, and his commandment provoked the people into sin. (1Sa 14:45-46) The people rescue Jonathan from execution. Saul started out as a humble man (1 Samuel 10:21), but his once impressive humility was overtaken by pride. : This was good. “Ishbosheth, Saul’s other son, is here omitted, because he intended to mention only those of his sons who went with him into the battles here mentioned, and who were afterwards slain with him.” (Poole). the LORD lives, not one hair of his head shall fall to the ground, for he has worked with God this day.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die. Likewise all the men of Israel who had hidden in the mountains of Ephraim. 1 Samuel Chapter 14 Summary. (31-35) The soldiers of Israel sin because of Saul’s foolish command. It was the LORD’s victory. When we step out in faith, encouragement can make all the difference for good and discouragement can make all the difference for evil. Saul wanted everyone to know that he and his son Jonathan were innocent, so that was the first division. As the LORD lives, not one hair of his head shall fall to the ground, for he has worked with God this day, : Happily, the people finally stood up to Saul’s foolishness. Saul Fights the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:15-52) 12. Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison, Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that is on the other side. : On his way to the Philistine garrison, Jonathan saw a strategic position – a narrow path through a pass with large, sharp rocks on either side. Many in Israel probably believed this as theological truth but few believed it enough to. Jonathan wanted to act if the Lord would work for them. Chapter 14. The Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul — Which came upon him when he was first made king, and continued with him till this time, but which God now took away, depriving him of that prudence, courage, and alacrity, and other gifts wherewith he had qualified him for his public employment. First, the oath itself and the penalty on the oath breaker were simply bad and foolish laws and should not have been enforced. There were about 600 men with Saul. He pronounced a death sentence on whoever ate in violation of his forced vow. ). There are at least three reasons why it was right to spare Jonathan, even though he broke the oath. of Saul put the army of Israel under an oath, so, battle, he should simply fast himself. Verse 1. : In his step of faith, Jonathan wanted to know if God was really leading. The next chapter will fully expose the weakness of Saul. We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Now it happened, while Saul talked to the priest, that the noise which was in the camp of the Philistines continued to increase; so Saul said to the priest, “Withdraw your hand.”. On this day of battle, because of Saul’s foolish command, the people were so hungry they broke this command. JONATHAN'S PURPOSE - Vss. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site. If that were his motive, he would have told at least a few people that he went. Then Saul said to Jonathan, “Tell me what you have done.” And Jonathan told him, and said, “I only tasted a little honey with the end of the rod that was in my hand. This is always the result of legalism. New American Standard Version. Jonathan’s faith was demonstrated by his works. Now it happened one day that Jonathan the son of Saul said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that is on the other side.” b. Otherwise you will be prompted again when opening a new browser window or new a tab. The High Priest would ask God a question, reach into the breastplate, and pull our either a “yes” or a “no.”. Let’s just pray instead.” If we only want victory or only want to be used by God when it is. 1. the Philistines' garrison--"the standing camp" ( 1 Samuel 13:23, Margin) "in the passage of Michmash" ( 1 Samuel 13:16), now Wady Es-Suweinit. 1Sa 4:3-9. On this day of battle against the Philistines Saul declared a curse: “Cursed is the man who eats any food until evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.”, . But he was so caught up in being “right” that he added this foolish vow to his previous foolish commandment. d. The men of Israel were distressed that day: This shows that the result among the army of Israel was wrong. But the rocks are steep and there are a lot of Philistines up there. When the morale and the physical energy of Israel should have been the strongest, the army was weak and discouraged. And Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God here” (for at that time the ark of God was with the children of Israel). c. So the LORD saved Israel that day: God really used Jonathan, but it wasn’t Jonathan’s victory. That first slaughter which Jonathan and his armorbearer made was about twenty men within about half an acre of land. We don’t know who wrote the books; certainly, Samuel was a major contributor, but much of the book takes place after his death in 1 Samuel 25. b. Israel was hopelessly outnumbered and demoralized. They needed energy to continue the pursuit and finish the battle. Now it happened one day that Jonathan the son of Saul said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that, on the other side.” But he did not tell his father. is described on a few occasions (Exodus 28:30, Numbers 27:21, 1 Samuel 28:6; Ezra 2:63, Nehemiah 7:65) and their use may be implied in other passages where Israel sought God (Judges 1:1 and Judges 20:18, 23). This will be a sign to us: In his step of faith, Jonathan wanted to know if God was really leading. He wanted to see what God might do through two men who trusted Him and stepped out boldly. And he gathered an army and attacked the Amalekites, and delivered Israel from the hands of those who plundered them. It was reasonable for the Philistines to think these were Hebrew deserters surrendering to the Philistines because they thought it was better than hiding in a hole. And when Saul saw any strong man or any valiant man, he took him for himself. For the LORD has delivered them into our hand, and this. . So, he told the priest “Withdraw your hand.” This meant, “Stop seeking an answer from God with the urim and thummin,” which were held in a pouch in the priest’s breastplate. Second, Jonathan broke the oath in ignorance. Jonathan didn’t hear about the fast and ate some honey and later on, he wished Saul didn’t call a fast because the mere taste of honey gave him much more energy to fight. So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle shifted to Beth Aven. Faith is willing to let God know the whole plan, and to know our part one step at a time. iii. “It was not Jonathan that was to work with some help from God; it was the Lord that was to work by Jonathan.” (Blaikie), For nothing restrains the LORD from saving by many or by few, : This is wise courage in God. He fought many successful wars. iii. So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle shifted to Beth Aven. But Jonathan had not heard his father charge the people with the oath. “Perfect lot” in the Hebrew is very close to the word for Thummim. They separated the people into two groups, and then selected one group by a “low” or “high” roll of something like dice. 6-7. 7. He established his sovereignty over Israel. right in front of their eyes. Kish was the father of Saul, and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel. 1 Samuel 16:14 But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD troubled him. But God will often do miracles – what He alone can do – if we will do what, Now the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked, and, was the multitude, melting away; and they went here and there. But on this day, God would win a great victory through the bold trust of Jonathan. And the Philistines went to their own place: The implication in this phrase is that the victory might have been greater if not for Saul’s foolish oath. Matthew Henry :: Commentary on 1 Samuel 14 ← Back to Matthew Henry's Bio & Resources. (4-5) Jonathan finds a strategic position. They were not divided into two books until the Old Testament was translated into Greek. Click to enable/disable _gat_* - Google Analytics Cookie. Then Saul returned from pursuing the Philistines, and the Philistines went to their own place. a. But the rocks are steep and there are a lot of Philistines up there. "The southern cliff was Seneh, which means acacia, so named from the trees in the vicinity; and the northern cliff was Bozez, meaning shining." about six hundred men. . Saul and the Amalekites (1 Samuel 15:1-35) 13. the son of Abiel. It is likely that the priest used the Urim and Thummim to inquire of the LORD. The sons of Saul were Jonathan, Jishui and Malchishua. : The implication in this phrase is that the victory might have been greater if not for Saul’s foolish oath. So Jonathan was taken: Saul was shaken. d. And they fell before Jonathan: Jonathan knew that the battle was the LORD’s, yet he knew God would use him to fight. : At the beginning, there was nothing in this day to indicate it would be remarkable. there. 1 Samuel 14King James Version (KJV) 14 Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that is on the other side. “Jonathan” was the eldest son of Saul, the first king of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin. It is likely that the priest used the. He did not answer him that day: Saul inquired of the LORD through the priest. C. Once again the Lord miraculously saved Israel, (1 Samuel 14:23). Despite all that, Jonathan was exactly right! a. Saul had placed the people under an oath: Jonathan, in his bold trust in the LORD, had just struck a mighty blow against the Philistines. Their obedience to Saul’s foolish command led them to disobey God’s clearly declared command. Very well: This indicates that Jonathan took the support of his armor bearer as confirmation. c. Go then; here I am with you: These words from Jonathan’s armor bearer must have cheered Jonathan greatly. He wanted to see what God might do through two men who trusted Him and stepped out boldly. The earth quaked, so that it was a very great trembling, : Jonathan used his heart and sword, but God did what Jonathan could not do – send a great earthquake to terrify the Philistines. There is a time to go aside and pray, and there is a time to get your sword out and fight. 1 Samuel 14. He pitched his tent under a tree, and had but 600 men with him, We have here the prosecution and improvement of the wonderful advantages which Jonathan and his armour-bearer gained against the Philistines.I. One day, Jonathan said to the young man, ‘We will go across to the Philistine army on the other side.’ But Jonathan did not tell his father. i. They were vastly outnumbered and greatly surpassed in military technology. Then Saul built an altar to the LORD. The garrison and the raiders also trembled; and the earth quaked, so that it was a very great trembling. But the people said to Saul, “Shall Jonathan die, who has accomplished this great deliverance in Israel? b. Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison: If Jonathan never decided, Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that is on the other side (1 Samuel 14:1) he would have never found this strategic place. Look now, how my countenance has brightened because I tasted a little of this honey. Samuel, Saul and David. In addition to these more general instructions to Saul as Israel’s king, there are the very specific instructions (“the command”) of 1 Samuel 10:8. It is, however, much more. : God really used Jonathan, but it wasn’t Jonathan’s victory. Now he follows God and Jonathan into battle. : The people knew Jonathan ate the honey, and Saul’s sentence of death on anyone who had eaten must have sent a chill up their back. 1 Samuel 14 Commentary, One of over 110 Bible commentaries freely available, this nine-volume commentary, respected by legions of devoted students, still ring with timeless truth The earth quaked, so that it was a very great trembling: Jonathan used his heart and sword, but God did what Jonathan could not do – send a great earthquake to terrify the Philistines. This also shows that Saul’s promised punishment was wrong. Saul’s royal glory is almost gone, and it is appropriate that he associates with a relative of the man named “The Glory Has Departed.”, The people did not know that Jonathan was gone. But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul.] 1 Samuel Chapter 14 Summary. John Trapp Complete Commentary. Then one of the people said, “Your father strictly charged the people with an oath, saying, ‘Cursed, the man who eats food this day.’” And the people were faint. they heard that the Philistines fled, they also followed hard after them in the battle. Saul offered sacrifice without Samuel, and did it himself, though he was neither priest nor prophet. . Between the passes, by which Jonathan sought to go over to the Philistines’ garrison, a sharp rock on one side and a sharp rock on the other side. : Saul was the leader of Israel, but it took him a long time to start leading. Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. 1 Samuel 14:1. Renewing the Kingdom (1 Samuel 11:14-12:25) 9. Probably, God wants us to associate the meaning of Ichabod’s name with where Saul is at spiritually. Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that is on the other side. ADAM CLARKE'S BIBLE COMMENTARY - 1 SAMUEL 14 1 Samuel 13 - 1 Samuel 15 >> - HELP - FB - TWITTER - GR VIDEOS - GR FORUMS - GR YOUTUBE . The next chapter will fully expose the weakness of Saul. a. Because of his command. 1Sa 3:19-21. Copyright © 2020, Bible Study Tools. The son of Saul believed if the entire company ate they would have destroyed more Philistines completely. And Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God here” (for at that time the ark of God was with the children of Israel). Yet Jonathan was bold enough to. Introduction. If any such fast was to be declared and a curse attached to it, Samuel had the spiritual authority to do it, not Saul. Faith is willing to let God know the whole plan, and to know our part one step at a time. He may choose not to act until we partner with Him in trust. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. For the LORD has delivered them into our hand, and this will be a sign to us.”. And Saul said, “Come over here, all you chiefs of the people, and know and see what this sin was today. He did not have the authority to proclaim such a curse and he was not the spiritual leader of the nation. 5. b. Saul wanted everyone to know that he and his son Jonathan were innocent, so that was the first division. But he told not his father. Yet Jonathan was bold enough to go over to the Philistine garrison just to see what the LORD might do. Jonathan perhaps thought, “Well, if God could do it through Shamgar, He could do it through me!”. And God provided, No one put his hand to his mouth, for the people feared the oath. Moreover the Hebrews, were with the Philistines before that time, who went up with them into the camp. Of his court and family, the names of his sons and daughters (, Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete), California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. He did not have the authority to proclaim such a curse and he was not the spiritual leader of the nation. “Armor-bearers in ancient times had to be unusually brave and loyal, since the lives of their masters often depended on them.” (Youngblood). Actually, the opposite is true. “Let’s set today aside as a special day of fasting unto the LORD. 2 Saul was staying on the outskirts of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree in Migron. “The mopping-up operations after a rout were all-important if the maximum benefit from the victory was to be reaped, but pursuit of the enemy involved an exhausting, unremitting journey over steep hills for hours on end.” (Baldwin). But Jonathan knew that God uses the bold action and fighting spirit of His people. Seizing God’s Opportunities 1 Samuel 14:1-15 John Wycliffe lived 200 years before the Protestant Reformation, which ushered in a belief system that moved the church away from Roman Catholicism, and towards a belief in God and the Scriptures as the source of divine revelation. CHAPTER 14. The bold, brave, king was simply sitting… under a pomegranate tree while his son boldly went over to the Philistine garrison. If anyone wants to join me, they are welcome.” But instead of leading by example and inviting the army of Israel to follow, he placed the people under an oath. (25-30) Jonathan unknowingly breaks the oath and is told of his offense. But the people said to Saul, “Shall Jonathan die, who has accomplished this great deliverance in Israel? The front of one faced northward opposite Michmash, and the other southward opposite Gibeah. He pronounced a death sentence on whoever ate in violation of his forced vow. i. 3. Study the bible online using commentary on 1 Samuel 14 and more! He who was so indulgent as to spare wicked Agag, chapter 15, is now so severe as to destroy his own worthy son.” (Poole). i. There was a sense in which he was undercutting his father’s authority before the troops. b. For now would there not have been a much greater slaughter among the Philistines?”. God was going to use Jonathan, but He wasn’t going to use Jonathan. These Hebrew servants of the Philistines probably hated their masters but were afraid to stand free in the LORD. c. Come, let us go over to the Philistines garrison: The Israelites were in a military conflict where victory seemed impossible. 1 Samuel 14:1-14.JONATHAN MIRACULOUSLY SMITES THE PHILISTINES' GARRISON. They simply would not allow Jonathan to be executed. Let’s just pray instead.” If we only want victory or only want to be used by God when it is easy, we won’t see much victory and we won’t be used much. Jonathan climbed up on his hands and knees with his armorbearer after him, : This was a difficult climb. 1 Samuel chapter 3: 1Sa 3:1-10. : Saul blamed the people for what was really his own fault. If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here: We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. 1 Samuel 14:1. Numbers or odds did not restrain God, but unbelief could. i. Did it matter if it was a million-to-one or a thousand-to-one? And the men of Israel were distressed that day, for Saul had placed the people under oath, saying, “Cursed. And the name of one. food until evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” So none of the people tasted food. Jonathan was not the kind to say, “Well, it would be nice to do this. b. We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. Ahijah the son of Ahitub, Ichabod’s brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the LORD’s priest in Shiloh, was wearing an ephod. When the morale and the physical energy of Israel should have been the strongest, the army was weak and discouraged. He prayed, made sure his sword was sharp, and trusted God would use him to strike them all down. : The odds were already against Israel. 1 Samuel 14:6-15. "It begins in the neighborhood of Betin (Beth-el) and El-Bireh (Beetroth), and as it breaks through the ridge below these places, its sides form precipitous walls. Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that is on the other side. Then Saul said to Jonathan, “Tell me what you have done.” And Jonathan told him, and said, “I only tasted a little honey with the end of the rod that, in my hand. Jonathan could strengthen himself in promises such as Leviticus 26:8: Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight; your enemies shall fall by the sword before you, : Perhaps this was just an oversight, or something easily and properly explained. 1Sa 3:11-14. Slaughter them here, and eat; and do not sin against the LORD by eating with the blood, : Saul set up a stone to properly butcher the animals, and also. Now it happened, while Saul talked to the priest, that the noise which, in the camp of the Philistines continued to increase; so Saul said to the priest, “Withdraw your hand.”. c. Cursed is the man: This shows that Saul’s sense of authority was wrong. The vivid detail marks the account of one familiar with the spot. Now they had driven back the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon. Gibeah ( 1 Samuel 14:16) is the city Gibeah in Benjamin, whither also Samuel had gone from Gilgal ( 1 Samuel 13:15) back of Geba towards the south, yet with its extremity ( 1 Samuel 14:16) not so far from the pass of the southward-trending Wady, that the movements in the ranks of the Philistines opposite could not be thence observed. 1 Samuel 14 1 One day Jonathan son of Saul said to his young armor-bearer, “Come, let’s go over to the Philistine outpost on the other side.” But he did not tell his father. Verse-by-Verse Bible Commentary 1 Samuel 14:4. ii. God was more than able to set the Philistines against each other. ii. Saul started out as a humble man (1 Samuel 10:21), but his once impressive humility was overtaken by pride. Saul’s royal glory is almost gone, and it is appropriate that he associates with a relative of the man named “The Glory Has Departed.”. There was trembling in the camp, in the field, and among all the people: It seems that the Philistines were under a divine confusion and they woke that morning thinking “We are attacked by enemies in our midst!” They rushed about thinking their fellow Philistines might be the enemy and began to fight and kill one another. Biblical Commentary 1 Samuel 1:4-20 EXEGESIS: THE CONTEXT: This appears to be a story only about a childless woman who brings her problem to the Lord and finds help. He had a large and influential family. Click to enable/disable Google reCaptcha. First, the oath itself and the penalty on the oath breaker were simply bad and foolish laws and should not have been enforced. Ver. The use of the discerning tools of Urim and Thummim is described on a few occasions (Exodus 28:30, Numbers 27:21, 1 Samuel 28:6; Ezra 2:63, Nehemiah 7:65) and their use may be implied in other passages where Israel sought God (Judges 1:1 and Judges 20:18, 23). There was honey on the ground: This was provision from God. Samuel grows in credit. Moreover the Hebrews who were with the Philistines before that time, who went up with them into the camp from the surrounding country, they also joined the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan. There was the multitude, melting away: As the watchmen of Israel kept an eye on the huge army of the Philistines, the army started to melt away as they watched. 2 And now, behold, the king p walks before you, q and I am old and gray; and behold, my sons are with you. 1 Samuel 14:5. i. Jonathan showed wisdom and not unbelief. Because of his command, the people were faint on a day when they should have been strong. If there were anything to say, it would have been best to say it to his father directly. a. i. I will enforce this among the whole army with a curse.”, Before I have taken vengeance on my enemies, . 1 Samuel 14 Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary. Saul showed that even in doing something spiritual like fasting his focus is on himself, not the LORD. God was just waiting for someone with the bold trust of Jonathan. God tells Samuel the destruction of Eli's house. Commentaries, history books, and more are linked to this page. And the names of his two daughters, : the name of the firstborn Merab, and the name of the younger Michal. b. Please enter your email address associated with your Salem All-Pass account, then click Continue. b. i. By many or few: The odds were already against Israel. Go then; here I am with you, according to your heart.”. God guided Jonathan as he boldly trusted God and acted on that bold trust. They often carried the armor and weapons of the officer, so they were known as, Come, let us go over to the Philistines garrison, : The Israelites were in a military conflict where victory seemed impossible. Significantly, he did not demand to know the whole battle plan from God in advance. Jonathan never read the New Testament, but he had a Romans 8:31 heart: : These words from Jonathan’s armor bearer must have cheered Jonathan greatly. 1 Samuel 14:27 Or his strength was renewed; similarly in verse 29; 1 Samuel 14:41 Septuagint; Hebrew does not have “Why … at fault. Certain events in history emerged as watershed moments that radically affected the world. They went to the battle: Saul was the leader of Israel, but it took him a long time to start leading. And such obstructions does many a good cause meet with, even when it seems most prosperous, through the mismanagement of instruments.I. God’s power is never restrained but His will may be restrained by our unbelief.