3. Jonathan and David
“Jonathan became one in spirit with David” (1 Samuel 18:1, NIV)
There was an immediate bond between them (NLT)
Jonathan became a close friend to David (ISV)
Jonathan became David’s closest friend (GWT)
The soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David (ASV, ESV, NASB, KJB, Darby, ERV)
The word rendered “knit” literally means knotted, tied together firmly by indissoluble bonds (source: Matthew Henry’s commentary).
Source:

4. What is a covenant? Define “covenant” Covenants in the Bible
A contract is an agreement between two people before man
A covenant is an agreement between two people before God
Covenants in the Bible
Between God & mankind (through Adam, Noah, Jesus)
Between God & nation of Israel (through Abraham, Moses, David)
Between Jonathan and David before God

5. The Covenant of Friendship
What did Jonathan and David agree to do?
Be appreciative (1 Sam 18:4)
Jonathan recognizes the friendship as a gift
Jonathan’s gifts are fit for a king!
Be honest (1 Sam 20:1-3)
Vulnerable – sharing thoughts, feelings, dreams without fear of judgement or negative criticism
Be supportive and encouraging (1 Sam 20:4, 1 Sam 23:16)
Be trustworthy (deserving of confidence, dependable)
How they will discover Saul’s true intentions (1 Sam 20:5-7)
How Jonathan will deliver the message to David (1 Sam 20:18-22)

6. The Covenant of Friendship
What did Jonathan and David agree to do?
Be accountable to God (1 Sam 20:8, 12-13, 16-17, 23, 42, 2 Sam 23:18)
Be men of integrity (Do the right thing even when no one is watching – CS Lewis)
Be intimate (1 Sam 20:41)
sharing of something that is very personal and private
Be humble (1 Sam 23:17)
Not thinking of less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less (CS Lewis)
Love sacrificially
Be Jesus-like!

7. What can we learn? Not all friendships are equal.
Friendships will be tested.
Covenant friendships are models for significant relationships in our lives.