On Sunday we looked at the life of David through the life of Jonathan. The sermon is available here.
As I mentioned, when I began my study for Sunday’s sermon I didn’t intend to make it about Jonathan – but it turned out that way, and I hope that was encouraging for you. The basic theme of our review of Jonathan’s interaction with David was to see how God gives us relationships (friendships) so that we will use them as ministry for His Kingdom. In fact, we ended the sermon with three possible areas for you to make near-term application. (If you do apply any of them, I would love to hear about it.)
One thing I did not cover yesterday was how Jonathan shows us portraits of Jesus. I noted several instances in my preparation for the message; let me share these four:
1. Jonathan gave up his claim to the throne for the benefit/blessings of another (1 Sam 18.4; 20.14-17, & 23.17b)
Jesus laid aside His glory (deity) for the greatest benefit/blessing anyone could possibly receive – to bring many sons to glory (Phil 2.6-8; Heb 2.10)
2. Jonathan loved David and put his life at risk for David (1 Sam 18.3; 20.23)
Jesus loves you and laid down His life for you (1 Jn 3.16)
3. Jonathan risked his life to reconcile David to Saul (1 Sam 19.1-7; esp v7)
Jesus died to reconcile sinners to God (2 Cor 5.18)
4. Jonathan mediated for David (1 Sam 19.3-4)
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (1 Tim 2.5)
That’s four fair examples, I think. I would suggest there are more in the sermon passages we used: 1 Samuel 18.1-4; 19.1-7; 20.1-42; 23.15-18. I invite you to have a look and would be very glad if you would share with me any others you might note.
I was not surprised to find Jonathan to be a fascinating character, worthy of our emulation in many areas. Transparent moment: I had not looked at Jonathan with the intent of finding Jesus before. I did on Sunday and I’m glad. Because our study of Jonathan pointed us to Jesus, I trust that you are glad for this perspective, also. Let Jonathan’s examples of Jesus be one more thing to encourage you and to equip you in your faith this week.
Studying Old Testament heroes so I might become more like Jesus with you,
Pastor Gary