1 Samuel 19:4 Meaning and Explanation
“And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the king sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works have been to thee-ward very good:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jonathan defends David before Saul, urging him not to sin by harming an innocent, faithful servant.
What Does 1 Samuel 19:4 Mean?
Jonathan keeps his word and speaks good of David to the king. He frames the matter plainly: to strike David would be to sin, for David has done Saul no wrong and his deeds toward the king have been entirely good. Jonathan appeals to justice and to Saul's own conscience.
To intercede is to speak good of another before one who is angry, and Jonathan does exactly this, naming David's innocence and his faithful service. He calls the king back from sin by setting the truth before him. The friend who pleads the cause of the blameless reflects the heart of God, who delights when the guiltless are defended and who Himself sent One to speak for sinners and call the powerful back from wrongdoing.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Samuel 19:4
What does 1 Samuel 19:4 mean?
Jonathan defends David before Saul, urging him not to sin by harming an innocent, faithful servant.