David complaineth to Jonathan of Saul: he comforteth him; can hardly believe what David saith of his father; promiseth to give him notice how his absence was taken: they renew a covenant of friendship, and swear to each other, 1-17. Their sign, 18-23. Saul asketh for David at the feast of the new moon, 24-27. Jonathan excuseth David: Saul incensed here at, revileth Jonathan, and seeketh to kill him, 28-34. Jonathan advertiseth David, 35-40. They part with tears, 40, 41.
Archibald Hall's Gospel Worship: 'An oath for confirmation is an end of all strife, being the highest ground of faith and assurance that can be. It is the last security for truth and confidence among men; for if that will not oblige them to speak truth, we cannot suppose any thing will. On this account, it is proper enough to demand an oath in such cases as the following, viz.
To ratify covenants and treaties, that concern the good of many individuals...
To confirm personal friendship, with a view to the benefit of posterity; or even with a view to personal safety in cases of extreme danger, 1 Samuel 20.
To testify allegiance to a rightful sovereign...
To give evidence…
Matthew Henry: 'David, having several times narrowly escaped Saul's fury, begins to consider at last whether it may not be necessary for him to retire into the country and to take up arms in his own defence. But he will not do so daring a thing without consulting his faithful friend Jonathan; how he did this, and what passed between them, we have an account in this chapter, where we have as surprising instances of supernatural love as we had in the chapter before of unnatural hatred. I. David complains to Jonathan of his present distress, and engages him to be his friend, verses 1-8. II. Jonathan faithfully promises to get and give him intelligence how his father stood affecte…
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