Chapter Summary

Love covenant of Jonathan and David. Saul's Jealousy and attempts on David's life. Saul's daughter given to David.

Discussion Questions for 1 Samuel, Chapter 18

1. In what ways might Jonathan be inclined to admire and appreciate David? What do they have in common? (1 Samuel 14) How does God enhance this natural affinity into something remarkable? In what ways does God bless your friendships?
2. Compare Jonathan's gifting of clothing to David in vs. 3-4 with 1 Samuel 16: 38-39. How are these interactions similar? How are they different? What does Jonathan's gift signify about his relationship with David and his succession to the kingship?
3. What does Saul's reaction to the song in vs. 7 reveal about him? What is he afraid of? Are his fears founded (see vs. 12)?
4. What are the results of Saul's reaction to the song for the remainder of the chapter? What motivates Saul's plans? What unexpected outcomes do his plans produce? What are David's motivations, and what is the result?
5. How does the offer of Saul's daughter in marriage to David contradict with the information he received in 17:25? How have the terms changed? Why is David hesitant to become the king's son-in-law? Are his concerns reasonable and why?
6. Consider Saul's comment in vs. 21. How can romantic relationships become snares? For what reason(s) might Saul anticipate his daughter, Michal, becoming a snare to David in a way that Merab would not?
7. Why does Saul use the attendants to influence David's decision? Are there times when you have used or been used by others to influence a decision? What are the dangers of this persuasive manipulation?
8. Why does Saul offer David this particular bride price for Michal? How does this reveal Saul's selfishness? In what ways could this backfire on him?
9. In this passage, what examples can you see of the Lord turning Saul's efforts against David to the latter's advantage? When has the Lord turned a situation to your good?
10. What qualities of kingship does David exhibit in this chapter? How does he demonstrate a godly virtue and nobility of spirit?

Key Words/Phrase

Envy (displeased), vv. 8, 29.

Characters

God, Davids Saul, Jonathan, Merab, Michal, Adriel.

Strong Verse(s)

14