OT Characters: Jonathan

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas' website.Hebrew words:Yehonathan (Jonathan) -- "The Lord has given"Appears about 90x in the OT. Note: there are many Jonathans in the Bible (about 15). But this character is one of the most likeable figures in the O.T.Further study:Passages covered in this podcast1 Samuel 13:2; 14:1-13; 18:1-4; 19:1; 20:1ff; 23:15-18; 31:22 Samuel 2:12,19-27Read also about his son Mephibosheth in 2 Sam 4, 9, and his disloyal servant Ziba, in 2 Samuel 9, 16, 19.Some things we learn about God:Jonathan was a man more worthy than his father to be king. Men of integrity and loyalty do not always end up in leadership, and in fact sometimes they do not survive at all. Contrary to what we would think, God permits this to happen.God extends encouragement to us in times of trial, through spiritual and like-minded brothers / sisters.For kids:Ask, Who is your best friend? Which other boys (girls) bring out the best in you? Explain that today we are going to read about two best friends in scripture. Let your kids guess which two characters your study will be about. (Cain and Abel? No. Jesus and Peter? No…)Read about Jonathan and David’s friendship in 1 Samuel 23 (and any other passages that would be encouraging and interesting to you children).Why were they such good friends? Focus on:OpennessHonestyTime togetherDefending one anotherCommitted to be friends forever.Key verses:1 Samuel 13:3, 14:1 – Bravery in battle.1 Samuel 23:16 – Helps David find strength in God.1 Samuel 23:17 – Valued his relationship with David over his position as future king.1 Samuel 31:2 – Slain on Mt Gilboa.Next lesson: David