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Today we see how one of the most powerful friendships in Scripture — between David and Jonathan — reveals what it means to build relationships rooted in faith, humility, and courage. This message will challenge us to be the kind of friends who strengthen others’ faith and point them toward the God who never fails.

Evidently, Jonathan - the crown prince - was part of this meeting in 1 Samuel 17:57-58. There was something about David that connected Jonathan to him…a bond of brotherhood, a friendship founded on faith. Both of these men had trusted Yahweh and both had been used to accomplish great victories because of that trust. 

We have previously seen of David telling Saul about his reliance upon YAHWEH - not his own strength or skill - to defeat Goliath.

It’s the kind of bond Christians sense with others who stand up for Jesus & speak the truth when others are scared to, the moment when a man or woman does great things yet gives sincere credit to the God who gave them the ability. Although David & Jonathan could have become rivals, these 2 became brothers.

Jonathan, the crown prince - the one who should be the next king of Israel - symbolically transfers his royal rights to David. Jonathan was humble and willing to be second in command to David (as we later see - 1 Sam 23:17). Not only will David eventually take Jonathan’s place as the King of Israel, but the two have made an unbreakable covenant before God - to have each other’s backs - no matter what.

Once again, we see the contrast between Saul and his son Jonathan. Jonathan would have been pleased for David’s success,

but Saul is jealous of David.

David was expecting to be married on that day, but instead, she is given to another. Why would Saul do this, other than to try to hurt David? 

Sadly, Saul was in such competition with David that he issued this crazy command to cause David’s death.

Saul listened to the truth the Jonathan was speaking. At least for now, this powerful man was humble enough to receive correction, and that led to reconciling with David, the one whom he had considered his enemy.

“If you’re still breathing…there’s still HOPE!” You haven’t gone too far for God’s grace…yet. 

You too can listen and respond when you are confronted by the truth of Scripture, and move from being an enemy of God, to being in right relationship with Him.

• Are YOU right with God?
• Are you telling others HOW to be right with God?

These discussion questions are designed to help you LIVE what you LEARN with your Family, Friends, or Small Group.

🧭 Opening Connection

1. When you think of a “friendship founded on faith,” who comes to mind and why?
2. What do you think makes faith-based friendship different from ordinary friendship?
3. Share a time when a Christian friend strengthened your faith during a tough season.

⚔️ Faith and Friendship (1 Samuel 18:1–4)

1. Why do you think Jonathan was so deeply drawn to David? What did he see in David that reflected his own faith?
2. Jonathan gave David his robe, armor, sword, and belt — what do these symbolize?
3. In what ways can humility strengthen our friendships rather than weaken them?

💔 Jealousy vs. Joy (1 Samuel 18:5–9)

1. What caused Saul’s jealousy to grow toward David?
2. How does jealousy damage our ability to celebrate what God is doing in someone else’s life?
3. How can we practice rejoicing in others’ victories rather than competing with them?

🪞 Real Friends Speak Truth (1 Samuel 19:4–7)

1. Jonathan risked his own position — even his relationship with his father — to defend David.
2. What does this teach us about courageous friendship?
3. Why is it so hard to confront people we care about when they’re wrong?
4. Have you ever had to lovingly confront a friend or family member? What helped you do it with grace?

✝️ Gospel & Communion Connection

1. How does Jonathan’s covenant with David point us to Jesus and the New Covenant?
2. In what ways is Jesus the ultimate “friend who sticks closer than a brother”? (Prov 18:24)
3. How does our friendship with Christ shape the way we love and protect others in the church?

🪜 Personal Application

1. Is there a friendship you need to restore, protect, or strengthen this week?
2. Who could you encourage this week — the way Jonathan encouraged David?
3. What’s one action step you’ll take to deepen your friendships in the faith family?