NASHVILLE (BP) – This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Bible Studies For Life curriculum.
Bible Passage: 1 Samuel 18:1-4, 19:1-4, 23:15-18
Discussion Question:
- What did your family think you would be when you grew up?
Food for Thought by Bartholomew Orr:
Their family name has become a dynasty in the NFL. The Manning family has seen father and sons excel. Peyton, my wife’s favorite NFL player, earned two Superbowl wins and multiple awards. And his younger brother Eli has two Super Bowl wins among his many accomplishments. They followed their father’s path. To my surprise, there’s a third brother.
Cooper is the older brother of Peyton and Eli. Unfortunately, a spinal stenosis diagnosis ended his football career, even though he had already signed to play for the University of Mississippi.
Whether it’s the Mannings in sports, the Bush family in politics or the Ford family in the automobile industry, some families seem to pass on the legacy from generation to generation – hopefully because of God’s leading. The pressure is even on pastors’ sons to continue the tradition of preaching.
Let’s consider the relationship between Jonathan and David. Jonathan was seemingly content playing second chair to David and not fighting to follow in his father’s footsteps. Jonathan knew his role and he carried out his responsibilities to the best of his ability. He didn’t let cultural expectations define his role and we don’t have to either.
Jonathan had already proven himself. He was Saul’s oldest son and first in line for succeeding his father to the throne. This had always been Saul’s desire. He even told Jonathan, “Every day Jesse’s son lives on earth you and your kingship are not secure. Now send for him and bring him to me, for he must die!” (1 Samuel 20:31). But Jonathan was already secure in who he was, and he didn’t need a throne or a title to make himself a somebody.
Jonathan was a leader and oversaw one-third of Saul’s standing army (13:2). Jonathan was a fighter who was willing to go against the odds in the battle. Jonathan was a listener and was led by faith in God. He trusted God to save them (v. 6), and he also believed that God would give him a sign (v. 10). Jonathan had proven himself among the people and they loved him.
When David finished speaking with King Saul after defeating Goliath, a shift took place in Jonathan’s life. This was the turning point that knit the hearts of David and Jonathan as one. Was it David’s bravery in battle that impressed Jonathan? Was it David’s character that distinguished him from all the rest? Was it the Lord giving Jonathan a sign of what he should do?
Whatever it was, Jonathan committed himself to David. The Bible states that Jonathan “loved [David] as much as he loved himself” (18:1). Jonathan committed himself to being a friend to David and loved him unconditionally. Jonathan entered into a covenant with David and consented to the will of God. Jonathan was willing to give up what rightly belonged to him.
The throne was Jonathan’s birthright, and he had also earned this right on the battlefield. Yet, in a selfless act, Jonathan was willing to give it all to David. Jonathan wasn’t concerned about the politics of the day, but the purpose of God being carried out.
Too many people listen to others and change frequently to fit the status quo. They pursue the American dream and not God’s assigned destiny. They are coerced or influenced to follow in their parents’ footsteps, instead of seeking their heavenly Father’s plan for their life. But that wasn’t the case with Jonathan. He clearly knew his role; he freely relinquished his rights to the throne.
Don’t feel pressured by those around you to be somebody you’re not. Be who God says you are.
Bartholomew Orr is senior pastor of Brown Missionary Baptist Church in Southaven, Miss.
Bible Studies For Life
Bible Studies For Life is a family of resources addressing key issues in the lives of adults, students, and kids. Visit www.biblestudiesforlife.com and use it to help you “Connect the Unconnected, Strengthen Families, and Disciple People with Wisdom.” Free session downloads are available, plus PDFs and videos that accompany this Bible study resource.
Other ongoing Bible study options for all ages offered by Lifeway can be found at Lifeway.com/SundaySchool.
