I Samuel 20 The Covenant Between David And Jonathan Is Extended To Include Their Houses.

Clearly Jonathan had a more optimistic view of his father than David did (vv. 1-2). On oath David told Jon that his father would keep the knowledge of his murderous intent from him (v. 3). To this end David had a test, to which Jon agreed to cooperate with him on. The long and short was that they confirmed that it was again the intent of Saul to murder David, to which Jon acknowledged the LORD God of the covenant as witness (vv. 4-13, 18-32, 42). Jonathan’s only condition was that David continue to show favour to his family in spite of his father (vv. 14-15). Thus the covenant between David and Jonathan now extended to the latter’s family (vv. 16-17, 42). Jon appears to have finally got the message when his own father tried to impale him with a spear (v. 33).