1 Samuel 20 - Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible

Saul, missing David, seeks to kill Jonathan.

None were more constant than David in attending holy duties; nor had he been absent, but self-preservation obliged him to withdraw. In great peril present opportunities for Divine ordinances may be waved. But it is bad for us, except in case of necessity, to omit any opportunity of statedly attending on them. Jonathan did wisely and well for himself and family, to secure an interest in David, yet for this he is blamed. It is good to take God's people for our people. It will prove to

our advantage at last, however it may now be thought against our interest. Saul was outrageous. What savage beasts, and worse, does anger make men! (1Sa 20:35-42)