1 Samuel 14 ESV Audio
Introduction
The book of 1 Samuel is a historical book in the Old Testament of the Bible. It tells the story of the transition of leadership in Israel from the judges to the monarchy. Chapter 14 of 1 Samuel is a crucial chapter that describes the bravery of Jonathan, the son of King Saul, and his armor-bearer.
The Bravery of Jonathan (1 Samuel 14:1-15)
1 Samuel 14:1-3
One day, Jonathan, the son of King Saul, decided to attack the Philistine outpost. He confided in his armor-bearer, saying, "Come, let us go over to the Philistines' garrison on the other side." But he did not tell his father.
1 Samuel 14:4-5
The Philistines' garrison was located on a precipitous cliffs, with one cliff on one side and another on the other side. Jonathan said to his armor-bearer, "Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised. It may be that the Lord will work for us, for nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few."
1 Samuel 14:6-15
Jonathan and his armor-bearer climbed up the cliff, and when they reached the top, they attacked the Philistines. The Lord helped them, and they struck down the Philistines. The Philistines were routed, and their army was in disarray.
Saul's Oath (1 Samuel 14:16-23)
1 Samuel 14:24
King Saul, who was unaware of Jonathan's plan, cursed anyone who ate food before the evening, saying, "Cursed be the man who eats food until it has been avenged, and I have been avenged on my enemies."
The People's Reaction (1 Samuel 14:24-30)
1 Samuel 14:24-30
The people were exhausted and hungry, and they began to eat without waiting for the evening. Jonathan, who had eaten honey, was unaware of his father's oath. But when the people told him about the oath, he understood why the people were fearful.
The Consequences (1 Samuel 14:31-46)
1 Samuel 14:31-35
The men of Israel defeated the Philistines, but they were weak and weary. Saul ordered the people to slaughter the animals and eat the meat without draining the blood from the meat.
1 Samuel 14:36-46
The people disobeyed Saul's order, and Jonathan, who was unaware of the order, was forced to flee. But the people intervened, and Jonathan was spared.
Conclusion
1 Samuel 14 is a testament to the bravery of Jonathan, who trusted in the Lord and was willing to take risks. It also highlights the flaws of King Saul, who was impulsive and made rash decisions. This chapter serves as a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, we can trust in God's sovereignty and provision.
Audio Version
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