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1 Samuel 14

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‹ Chapter 13 1 Samuel — All Chapters Chapter 15 ›

1 One day Jonathan son of Saul said to the young man bearing his armor, “Come, let us cross over to the Philistine outpost on the other side.” But Jonathan did not tell his father. 2 Meanwhile, Saul was staying under the pomegranate tree in Migron on the outskirts of Gibeah. And the troops who were with him numbered about six hundred men, 3 including Ahijah, who was wearing an ephod. He was the son of Ichabod’s brother Ahitub son of Phinehas, the son of Eli the priest of the LORD in Shiloh. But the troops did not know that Jonathan had left. 4 Now there were cliffs on both sides of the pass that Jonathan intended to cross to reach the Philistine outpost. One was named Bozez and the other Seneh. 5 One cliff stood to the north toward Michmash, and the other to the south toward Geba. 6 Jonathan said to the young man bearing his armor, “Come, let us cross over to the outpost of these uncircumcised men. Perhaps the LORD will work on our behalf. Nothing can hinder the LORD from saving, whether by many or by few." 7 His armor-bearer replied, “Do all that is in your heart. Go ahead; I am with you heart and soul." 8 “Very well,” said Jonathan, “we will cross over toward these men and show ourselves to them. 9 If they say, ‘Wait until we come to you,’ then we will stay where we are and will not go up to them. 10 But if they say, ‘Come on up,’ then we will go up, because this will be our sign that the LORD has delivered them into our hands." 11 So the two of them showed themselves to the outpost of the Philistines, who exclaimed, “Look, the Hebrews are coming out of the holes in which they were hiding!" 12 So the men of the outpost called out to Jonathan and his armor-bearer, “Come on up, and we will teach you a lesson!” “Follow me,” Jonathan told his armor-bearer, “for the LORD has delivered them into the hand of Israel." 13 So Jonathan climbed up on his hands and feet, with his armor-bearer behind him. And the Philistines fell before Jonathan, and his armor-bearer followed and finished them off. 14 In that first assault, Jonathan and his armor-bearer struck down about twenty men over half an acre of land. 15 Then terror struck the Philistines in the camp, in the field, and among all the people. Even those in the outposts and raiding parties trembled. Indeed, the earth quaked and panic spread from God. 16 Now when Saul’s watchmen at Gibeah in Benjamin looked and saw the troops melting away and scattering in every direction, 17 Saul said to the troops who were with him, “Call the roll and see who has left us.” And when they had called the roll, they saw that Jonathan and his armor-bearer were not there. 18 Then Saul said to Ahijah, “Bring the ark of God.” (For at that time it was with the Israelites.) 19 While Saul was talking to the priest, the commotion in the Philistine camp continued to increase. So Saul said to the priest, “Withdraw your hand." 20 Then Saul and all his troops assembled and marched to the battle, and they found the Philistines in total confusion, with each man wielding the sword against his neighbor. 21 And the Hebrews who had previously gone up into the surrounding camps of the Philistines now went over to the Israelites who were with Saul and Jonathan. 22 When all the Israelites who had been hiding in the hill country of Ephraim heard that the Philistines were fleeing, they also joined Saul and Jonathan in the battle. 23 So the LORD saved Israel that day, and the battle moved on beyond Beth-aven. 24 Now the men of Israel were in distress that day, for Saul had placed the troops under an oath, saying, “Cursed is the man who eats any food before evening, before I have taken vengeance on my enemies.” So none of the troops tasted any food. 25 Then all the troops entered the forest, and there was honey on the ground. 26 And when they entered the forest and saw the flowing honey, not one of them put his hand to his mouth, because they feared the oath. 27 Jonathan, however, had not heard that his father had charged the people with the oath. So he reached out the end of the staff in his hand, dipped it into the honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes brightened. 28 Then one of the soldiers told him, “Your father bound the troops with a solemn oath, saying, ‘Cursed is the man who eats food today.’ That is why the people are faint." 29 “My father has brought trouble to the land,” Jonathan replied. “Just look at how my eyes have brightened because I tasted a little of this honey. 30 How much better it would have been if the troops had eaten freely today from the plunder they took from their enemies! Would not the slaughter of the Philistines have been much greater?" 31 That day, after the Israelites had struck down the Philistines from Michmash to Aijalon, the people were very faint. 32 So they rushed greedily to the plunder, taking sheep, cattle, and calves. They slaughtered them on the ground and ate meat with the blood still in it. 33 Then someone reported to Saul: “Look, the troops are sinning against the LORD by eating meat with the blood still in it.” “You have broken faith,” said Saul. “Roll a large stone over here at once." 34 Then he said, “Go among the troops and tell them, ‘Each man must bring me his ox or his sheep, slaughter them in this place, and then eat. Do not sin against the LORD by eating meat with the blood still in it.’” So that night everyone brought his ox and slaughtered it there. 35 Then Saul built an altar to the LORD; it was the first time he had built an altar to the LORD. 36 And Saul said, “Let us go down after the Philistines by night and plunder them until dawn, leaving no man alive!” “Do what seems good to you,” the troops replied. But the priest said, “We must consult God here." 37 So Saul inquired of God, “Shall I go down after the Philistines? Will You give them into the hand of Israel?” But God did not answer him that day. 38 Therefore Saul said, “Come here, all you leaders of the troops, and let us investigate how this sin has occurred today. 39 As surely as the LORD who saves Israel lives, even if it is my son Jonathan, he must die!” But not one of the troops said a word. 40 Then Saul said to all Israel, “You stand on one side, and I and my son Jonathan will stand on the other side.” “Do what seems good to you,” the troops replied. 41 So Saul said to the LORD, the God of Israel, “Why have You not answered Your servant this day? If the fault is with me or my son Jonathan, respond with Urim; but if the fault is with the men of Israel, respond with Thummim.” And Jonathan and Saul were selected, but the people were cleared of the charge. 42 Then Saul said, “Cast the lot between me and my son Jonathan.” And Jonathan was selected. 43 “Tell me what you have done,” Saul commanded him. So Jonathan told him, “I only tasted a little honey with the end of the staff that was in my hand. And now I must die?" 44 And Saul declared, “May God punish me, and ever so severely, if you, Jonathan, do not surely die!" 45 But the people said to Saul, “Must Jonathan die—he who accomplished such a great deliverance for Israel? Never! As surely as the LORD lives, not a hair of his head will fall to the ground, for with God’s help he has accomplished this today.” So the people rescued Jonathan, and he did not die. 46 Then Saul gave up his pursuit of the Philistines, and the Philistines returned to their own land. 47 After Saul had assumed the kingship over Israel, he fought against all his enemies on every side—the Moabites, the Ammonites, the Edomites, the kings of Zobah, and the Philistines. Wherever he turned, he routed them. 48 He fought valiantly and defeated the Amalekites, delivering Israel from the hands of its plunderers. 49 Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, Ishvi, and Malchishua. His two daughters were named Merab (his firstborn) and Michal (his younger daughter). 50 His wife’s name was Ahinoam daughter of Ahimaaz. The name of the commander of his army was Abner, the son of Saul’s uncle Ner. 51 Saul’s father Kish and Abner’s father Ner were sons of Abiel. 52 And the war with the Philistines was fierce for all the days of Saul. So whenever he noticed any strong or brave man, Saul would enlist him.

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Study Notes — 1 Samuel 14

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Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and his armor-bearer deciding to attack the Philistine garrison. Despite being vastly outnumbered, they trust in God to deliver them, and God gives them a great victory. Meanwhile, King Saul is offering a burnt offering, but he does so in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands. As a result, God does not answer his prayers, and the Israelites are not given the victory they were seeking. The chapter also highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, as seen in the story of Jonathan and the honey. The chapter ends with the Israelites being victorious, but not because of their own strength, but because of God's intervention.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger story of the reign of King Saul, who was the first king of Israel. The chapter fits into the book of 1 Samuel, which tells the story of the transition from the period of the judges to the period of the kings. The chapter also fits into the larger biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people, and the ways in which He delivers them from their enemies.

Heart Application

This chapter calls us to trust in God's power and sovereignty, just as Jonathan and his armor-bearer did. It reminds us that God is not limited by human circumstances, and that He can deliver us from any situation. It also calls us to obedience to God's commands, just as Jonathan was obedient in not eating the honey.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter tells the story of Jonathan and his armor-bearer as they trust in God to deliver them from the Philistines. It reminds us that God is the one who gives the victory, and that our role is to trust and obey Him. We see this in 1 Samuel 14:6, where it says, "For nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few."

Voices from the Church

“Faith is not a mere sentiment, but a living, active, and powerful principle, which takes hold of the promises of God, and uses them as the instruments of its work.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The sovereignty of God is not a mere abstract doctrine, but a living and practical truth, which ought to be felt and experienced by every believer.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Jonathan's Faith and Courage (1 Samuel 14:1-15) — Jonathan decides to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered. He trusts in God to deliver him and his armor-bearer.
  2. The Philistine Garrison (1 Samuel 14:1-15) — The Philistines are a powerful and numerous enemy, but God delivers them into the hands of Jonathan and his armor-bearer.
  3. King Saul's Disobedience (1 Samuel 14:18-23) — King Saul offers a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands. As a result, God does not answer his prayers.
  4. The Israelites' Victory (1 Samuel 14:20-23) — The Israelites are given the victory, but not because of their own strength, but because of God's intervention.
  5. Jonathan and the Honey (1 Samuel 14:24-30) — Jonathan eats the honey, not knowing that his father had made a vow that no one would eat until the Philistines were defeated. This story highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands.

Core Doctrines

The Sovereignty of God
This chapter teaches us that God is in control of all things, and that He can deliver us from any situation. We see this in the way that God delivers Jonathan and his armor-bearer from the Philistines.
The Importance of Faith
The chapter highlights the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty. We see this in Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered.
The Consequences of Disobedience
The chapter shows us the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. King Saul's decision to offer a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands results in God not answering his prayers.
The Power of Obedience
The chapter reminds us of the power of obedience to God's commands. We see this in the way that Jonathan is obedient in not eating the honey, despite not knowing about his father's vow.

Lessons from 1 Samuel 14

  1. The Importance of Faith — This chapter teaches us the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty. We see this in Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered.
  2. The Consequences of Disobedience — The chapter shows us the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. King Saul's decision to offer a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands results in God not answering his prayers.
  3. The Power of Obedience — The chapter reminds us of the power of obedience to God's commands. We see this in the way that Jonathan is obedient in not eating the honey, despite not knowing about his father's vow.
  4. The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us that God is in control of all things, and that He can deliver us from any situation. We see this in the way that God delivers Jonathan and his armor-bearer from the Philistines.
  5. The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter calls us to trust in God's power and sovereignty, just as Jonathan and his armor-bearer did. It reminds us that God is not limited by human circumstances, and that He can deliver us from any situation.

Themes from 1 Samuel 14

  1. Faith and Courage — This chapter highlights the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty. We see this in Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered.
  2. The Consequences of Disobedience — The chapter shows us the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. King Saul's decision to offer a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands results in God not answering his prayers.
  3. The Power of Obedience — The chapter reminds us of the power of obedience to God's commands. We see this in the way that Jonathan is obedient in not eating the honey, despite not knowing about his father's vow.
  4. The Sovereignty of God — This chapter teaches us that God is in control of all things, and that He can deliver us from any situation. We see this in the way that God delivers Jonathan and his armor-bearer from the Philistines.
  5. The Importance of Trusting in God — The chapter calls us to trust in God's power and sovereignty, just as Jonathan and his armor-bearer did. It reminds us that God is not limited by human circumstances, and that He can deliver us from any situation.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What can we learn from Jonathan's faith and courage in this chapter?
  2. How does King Saul's disobedience affect the outcome of the battle?
  3. What does the story of Jonathan and the honey teach us about the importance of obedience to God's commands?
  4. How does this chapter remind us of the power of God's sovereignty?
  5. What are some ways that we can apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Jonathan's Decision to Attack the Philistines (1 Samuel 14:1-5)

1 Samuel 14:1 Jonathan decides to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered.
1 Samuel 14:2 Jonathan tells his armor-bearer about his plan, and the armor-bearer agrees to go with him.

2. The Philistine Garrison (1 Samuel 14:1-15)

1 Samuel 14:3 The Philistines are a powerful and numerous enemy, but God delivers them into the hands of Jonathan and his armor-bearer.
1 Samuel 14:4 The Philistines are confused and frightened, and they begin to fight among themselves.

3. King Saul's Disobedience (1 Samuel 14:18-23)

1 Samuel 14:18 King Saul offers a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands.
1 Samuel 14:19 As a result, God does not answer his prayers, and the Israelites are not given the victory they were seeking.

4. The Israelites' Victory (1 Samuel 14:20-23)

1 Samuel 14:20 The Israelites are given the victory, but not because of their own strength, but because of God's intervention.
1 Samuel 14:21 The Israelites pursue the Philistines, and they are given a great victory.

5. Jonathan and the Honey (1 Samuel 14:24-30)

1 Samuel 14:24 Jonathan eats the honey, not knowing that his father had made a vow that no one would eat until the Philistines were defeated.
1 Samuel 14:25 As a result, Jonathan is almost put to death, but the people intervene and save him.

6. The Aftermath of the Battle (1 Samuel 14:31-52)

1 Samuel 14:31 The Israelites are given a great victory, and they pursue the Philistines.
1 Samuel 14:32 The Israelites are exhausted and hungry, and they begin to eat the spoil of the Philistines.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of 1 Samuel 14?

The main theme of 1 Samuel 14 is the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty. We see this in Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered (1 Samuel 14:6).

What is the significance of Jonathan eating the honey?

The story of Jonathan eating the honey teaches us about the importance of obedience to God's commands. Jonathan does not know about his father's vow, but he is still held accountable for his actions (1 Samuel 14:24-30).

How does King Saul's disobedience affect the outcome of the battle?

King Saul's disobedience results in God not answering his prayers, and the Israelites are not given the victory they were seeking. However, God still delivers the Philistines into the hands of Jonathan and his armor-bearer (1 Samuel 14:18-23).

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 1 Samuel 14:6 → Hebrews 11:32-34 This verse reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, just as the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 did.
2 1 Samuel 14:24 → Numbers 30:2 This verse teaches us about the importance of obedience to God's commands, just as the Israelites were taught in Numbers 30:2.
3 1 Samuel 14:31 → Deuteronomy 20:1-4 This verse reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty in battle, just as the Israelites were taught in Deuteronomy 20:1-4.
4 1 Samuel 14:45 → Acts 14:23 This verse teaches us about the importance of obedience to God's commands, just as the early church was taught in Acts 14:23.
5 1 Samuel 14:47 → Psalm 78:65-66 This verse reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, just as the psalmist did in Psalm 78:65-66.
6 1 Samuel 14:52 → 2 Samuel 8:1 This verse teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty in battle, just as David did in 2 Samuel 8:1.
7 1 Samuel 14:1-5 → 1 Corinthians 10:11 This passage reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, just as the Corinthians were taught in 1 Corinthians 10:11.
8 1 Samuel 14:18-23 → Romans 11:33-36 This passage teaches us about the importance of obedience to God's commands, just as the Romans were taught in Romans 11:33-36.
9 1 Samuel 14:24-30 → Galatians 3:10-14 This passage reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands, just as the Galatians were taught in Galatians 3:10-14.
10 1 Samuel 14:31-52 → Ephesians 6:10-18 This passage teaches us about the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, just as the Ephesians were taught in Ephesians 6:10-18.

Sermons on 1 Samuel 14

SermonDescription
Francis Chan Trusting God Again Like a Child by Francis Chan Francis Chan emphasizes the importance of trusting God with childlike faith, urging leaders to genuinely love their congregations and seek God's presence in their ministry. He refl
Chuck Smith (Through the Bible) 1 Samuel 11-16 by Chuck Smith In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Jonathan and his armor-bearer facing the Philistine army. Despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned, Jonathan and his compan
David Guzik (1 Samuel) a Foolish Oath and Consequences by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker focuses on a passage from the Bible about Saul and his son Jonathan. The speaker highlights the difficulty of pronouncing some of the Bible names but em
Winkie Pratney Victory or Survival - Part 3 by Winkie Pratney In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and putting our faith into action. He uses the story of Jonathan and his armor bearer to illustrate this p
David Guzik (1 Samuel) Blessings to a Bold Faith by David Guzik In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having bold trust in God and being willing to work hard for His purposes. He uses the story of Jonathan and his armor beare
Carter Conlon Reclaiming the Sweetness of the Cross by Carter Conlon This sermon emphasizes the importance of reclaiming the sweetness of the cross, highlighting the need for honesty, abandonment to God, and righteousness. It calls for a choice to w
Michael Howard Stepping Into Alignment With God's Will by Michael Howard In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with God's will and purpose. They share their experience of building a school that was specifically instru
Chuck Smith The Early Success of Saul by Chuck Smith In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith focuses on the early success of Saul as the king of Israel. Saul reigned for one year and then chose 3,000 men to form a standing army, with 2,00
Brian Brodersen (1 Corinthians) the Gifts of the Spirit by Brian Brodersen In this sermon, the speaker discusses the gift of faith as mentioned in the Bible. He gives examples of individuals who demonstrated this gift, such as Peter and Jonathan. Peter ha
Shane Idleman The Battle Is Not Yours - Nothing Restrains the Lord by Shane Idleman Shane Idleman emphasizes that the battle we face is not ours but belongs to the Lord, reminding us that nothing can restrain God. He encourages believers to recognize that no hindr

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Samuel 14

In this chapter, we see the faith and courage of Jonathan, who trusts in God to deliver him and his armor-bearer from the Philistines. We also see the disobedience of King Saul, who offers a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands. The chapter reminds us of the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty, and of the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. As Matthew Henry notes, 'Faith and prayer are the two great instruments by which we may get the help and comfort we need from God.' We see this in the way that Jonathan trusts in God to deliver him, and in the way that the Israelites are given the victory despite their own weaknesses. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The Importance of Faith

The chapter highlights the importance of trusting in God's power and sovereignty. We see this in Jonathan's decision to attack the Philistine garrison, despite being vastly outnumbered.

The Consequences of Disobedience

The chapter also shows us the consequences of disobedience to God's commands. King Saul's decision to offer a burnt offering in a way that is not in accordance with God's commands results in God not answering his prayers.

The Power of God's Sovereignty

The chapter reminds us of the power of God's sovereignty. We see this in the way that God delivers Jonathan and his armor-bearer from the Philistines, despite being vastly outnumbered.

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