11 "Come outside," said Jonathan. "Let's go to the field." When the two of them were out in the field, 12 Jonathan said, "As God, the God of Israel, is my witness, by this time tomorrow I'll get it out of my father how he feels about you. Then I'll let you know what I learn. 13 May God do his worst to me if I let you down! If my father still intends to kill you, I'll tell you and get you out of here in one piece. And God be with you as he's been with my father! 14 If I make it through this alive, continue to be my covenant friend. And if I die, 15 keep the covenant friendship with my family - forever. And when God finally rids the earth of David's enemies, stay loyal to Jonathan!" 16 17 Jonathan repeated his pledge of love and friendship for David. He loved David more than his own soul! 18 Jonathan then laid out his plan: "Tomorrow is the New Moon, and you'll be missed when you don't show up for dinner. 19 On the third day, when they've quit expecting you, come to the place where you hid before, and wait beside that big boulder. 20 I'll shoot three arrows in the direction of the boulder. 21 Then I'll send off my servant, 'Go find the arrows.' If I yell after the servant, 'The arrows are on this side! Retrieve them!' that's the signal that you can return safely - as God lives, not a thing to fear! 22 But if I yell, 'The arrows are farther out!' then run for it - God wants you out of here! 23 Regarding all the things we've discussed, remember that God's in on this with us to the very end!"
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:11-23
Commentary on 1 Samuel 20:11-23
(Read 1 Samuel 20:11-23)
Jonathan faithfully promises that he would let David know how he found his father affected towards him. It will be kindness to ourselves and to ours, to secure an interest in those whom God favours, and to make his friends ours. True friendship rests on a firm basis, and is able to silence ambition, self-love, and undue regard for others. But who can fully understand the love of Jesus, who gave himself as a sacrifice for rebellious, polluted sinners! how great then ought to be the force and effects of our love to him, to his cause, and his people!