Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to explore a wonderful story from the Bible about two very good friends, Jonathan and David, from the book of 1 Samuel, chapter 20. Have you ever had a friend that you really cared about? Someone you enjoyed playing with, sharing your toys or secrets, and who made you laugh? Friends are very special, and they are gifts from God who bring joy and love into our lives.
Imagine you have a best friend, someone who you trust with everything, and one day they suddenly get into some serious trouble. What would you do to help them? Would you stand by them? This is exactly what Jonathan did for David. Their story shows us the importance of truth, promises, and sticking together, even when things get tough.
In our Bible chapter, Jonathan, who was the son of King Saul, showed immense loyalty and care for his friend David, even though it was very challenging. Their friendship teaches us that true friends are there for each other through thick and thin. Let’s dive deep into this lesson and find out how these two friends supported each other, what made their friendship strong, and what we can learn from their story. This wonderful tale of friendship and bravery has a lot to teach us, so let’s get ready to learn!
Main Teaching Points
1. Understanding Friendship: Jonathan and David
First, let’s take a closer look at Jonathan and David’s friendship. Jonathan was King Saul’s son, and David was a shepherd boy who had been chosen by God to be the next king. Despite their different backgrounds, they became the best of friends. Their friendship shows us that God places people in our lives who can become our closest friends, even if we come from different places or have different interests.
Jonathan made a special promise, or covenant, with David. This was like a super-strong promise to always be true friends, no matter what happened. We learn that promises are important and that when we make a promise, like promising to share or help someone, we should always try our best to keep it. Can you think of a promise you’ve made to a friend before?
2. Loyalty in Tough Times
Now, let’s talk about how Jonathan showed loyalty to David. Being loyal means standing by someone, even when things get difficult. In the story, King Saul became very jealous of David because David was loved by many people for his bravery and goodness. Saul even wanted to harm David, which was very scary. But Jonathan didn’t let that stop him from being a good friend.
Jonathan didn’t keep quiet or go away when his friend needed help. Instead, he came up with a plan to find out what Saul was thinking. Jonathan promised David that if he found out that his father really intended harm, he would let him know so David could stay safe. This teaches us that good friends look out for each other and help each other make the right choices.
3. The Importance of Communication
Let’s look at how Jonathan and David communicated. They set up a plan involving arrows to send messages to each other about whether David was safe. Jonathan did this because it wasn’t safe for them to talk openly. This shows us how important communication is in friendship. Even when they couldn’t speak directly, they found a way to share important news.
We learn from this that when we feel something is not right or if we need help, it’s important to talk to someone we trust—like a parent, teacher, or a good friend. By communicating openly, we can help solve problems together.
4. Courage to Do What’s Right
Jonathan showed great courage by helping David. He had to do something very hard: choose between obeying his father or helping his friend. Jonathan chose to do what was right. Sometimes we might find ourselves in a situation where doing the right thing isn’t easy, maybe because others might not agree with us.
Think of a time when you had to be brave. Maybe you had to stand up for someone or tell the truth even when it was hard. By being brave like Jonathan, we can show our friends, and everyone, that we care about doing what’s right and being there for them.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
What can we learn from Jonathan and David to use in our own lives? Let’s think about some ways we can be better friends, just like them.
Firstly, always be kind and supportive. A friend is someone you can count on, and who can count on you. Maybe you have a friend who’s being picked on, or perhaps someone who feels left out during recess. You can show kindness by inviting them to play or by saying something nice to them.
Secondly, keep promises. If you promised to share your favorite toy or help someone with their homework, do your best to keep your word. It shows others that you value them and that you’re reliable.
Thirdly, communicate. If something is bothering you or you have an idea, talk it out with your friend. Maybe there’s a misunderstanding or a problem that needs solving. Use your words to share how you feel and work things out.
Finally, be courageous. If you see something that’s not right, like someone being treated unfairly, have the courage to speak up. It takes bravery to do this, but as Jonathan showed us, it’s important to help our friends and others when they need it.
By doing these things, you can be a great friend and make sure your friendships are strong, just like Jonathan and David’s.
Interactive Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think Jonathan and David’s friendship was so strong?
Guide: Encourage the children to think about trust, loyalty, and shared values. Discuss how Jonathan and David supported each other, showing that true friendships are based on more than just having fun together. Ask the students to share examples of how they are good friends to others.
2. How did Jonathan show courage, and why is it important for us to be brave too?
Guide: Focus on Jonathan’s decision to help David, despite being risky. Courage often means doing something even when it’s hard or scary. Ask the children to think about a time they were courageous. How did it feel before and after? Reinforce the idea that being brave can help us support our friends and stand up for what’s right.
3. Can you think of a way to communicate well with your friends, especially if there’s a problem?
Guide: Encourage the children to think about positive communication strategies, like speaking kindly, listening carefully, and being honest. Role-play scenarios where they may need to resolve misunderstandings. Discuss how good communication helps build trust and prevents problems from getting bigger.
4. Why is it important to keep promises in a friendship?
Guide: Explain that keeping promises helps build trust and shows that you value your friend. Use examples like promising to play a certain game or help with something and how breaking those promises might feel. Discuss how trust is a foundation of friendship and how keeping promises helps to maintain it.
These questions and the corresponding discussions will help the children understand the story deeply and relate it to their everyday lives, equipping them to be better friends and thoughtful individuals.
Games
Game 1: Jonathan’s Secret Signal Relay
– Number of Players: 4-12
– Materials Needed: A small ball or soft object (to represent an arrow), three cones or markers, a copy of 1 Samuel 20 (paraphrased for children if needed)
– Setup:
1. Set up three cones in a line with some distance between them.
2. Designate one side as the “palace” and the other as the “field.”
– Instructions:
1. Divide players into two teams: Team Jonathan and Team David.
2. Team Jonathan’s job is to pass the “arrow” (the ball) from the palace to the third cone (farthest from the palace), representing the secret message to David.
3. Team David waits at the field.
4. Players on Team Jonathan take turns running to the cones. At each cone, they state a phrase from the story (e.g., “I will send the boy, saying, ‘Go, find the arrows!’” or “The LORD is between you and me forever”).
5. Once they reach the third cone, they yell, “The arrow is beyond you!” to alert their teammates to run to the field and change roles if necessary.
6. Encourage kids to relay quickly and work together as a team.
– Lesson Reinforcement:
This game emphasizes teamwork and trust between Jonathan and David, as found in 1 Samuel 20. It shows how Jonathan helped David by warning him about King Saul’s intentions, reinforcing the theme of loyal friendship and communication.
Game 2: David’s Hiding Spot Scavenger Hunt
– Number of Players: Any number
– Materials Needed: Pictures or items representing elements from the story (e.g., arrows, cloak, field, Jonathan), a copy of 1 Samuel 20 highlights
– Setup:
1. Hide the pictures or objects around the room or designated play area.
2. Provide each player or team with a checklist of items to find.
– Instructions:
1. Explain the story of 1 Samuel 20 briefly, focusing on key elements like the arrow, field, and the friendship bond.
2. Challenge the players to find all hidden items that represent parts of the story within a set time limit.
3. As players find each item, have them discuss briefly how it relates to the story (e.g., “We found the arrow. It was a secret signal between Jonathan and David”).
– Lesson Reinforcement:
This game highlights the trust and communication between Jonathan and David through a fun and engaging scavenger hunt, helping children to remember key parts of the story and understand the importance of loyal friendships.
Game 3: Secret Message Charades
– Number of Players: 4-10
– Materials Needed: Slips of paper, a bowl
– Setup:
1. Write phrases or key components of 1 Samuel 20 on slips of paper (e.g., “shooting arrows,” “running in the field,” “hiding place”).
2. Place the slips into a bowl.
– Instructions:
1. Players take turns drawing a slip from the bowl.
2. Without speaking, the player must act out the phrase or scene for others to guess within one minute.
3. If the guessing team names the correct element of the story related to what is being acted out, they score a point.
4. Rotate players for each round to ensure everyone gets a turn acting and guessing.
– Lesson Reinforcement:
Charades encourage children to think critically about the story elements from 1 Samuel 20 and creatively express them without words. It fosters understanding and recall of the story through physical activity and group interaction, emphasizing non-verbal communication similar to Jonathan and David’s agreement.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflection on 1 Samuel 20
Overview:
1 Samuel 20 is a story about the friendship between David and Jonathan, emphasizing loyalty, trust, and protecting those you care about.
Objectives:
– Understand the themes of friendship and loyalty.
– Reflect on what it means to be a good friend.
– Discuss and apply these themes in everyday life.
Assignment:
Read Together:
With a family member, read 1 Samuel 20. If possible, find a children’s Bible or online resource that presents the story in a simple manner.
Discussion Questions:
– Who are the main characters in the story?
– How did Jonathan show he was a good friend to David?
– Why did David need Jonathan’s help?
– Have you ever helped a friend or had a friend help you? Describe the situation.
Activities:
1. Draw a Scene:
Draw your favorite part of 1 Samuel 20. It could be when Jonathan talks to David or the signal with arrows. Share your drawing with your family and explain why you chose this scene.
2. Friendship Talk:
Think about what makes a good friend. Write down three things that you believe are important in friendships. Share these with a family member and ask them what they think.
3. Friendship Pledge:
Create a “Friendship Pledge” with someone at home. Write down how you will support and care for your friends, just like Jonathan did for David. Decorate it, and put it somewhere you can see every day.
4. Role Play:
With a family member, act out a small scene from 1 Samuel 20. Focus on how the characters communicate their feelings of trust and care for one another.
Reflection:
Write a few sentences about how you can be more like Jonathan to your friends. What are some ways you can show loyalty and support to them?
Submission:
Once you have completed these tasks, share your drawing, friendship talk notes, and your “Friendship Pledge” with your teacher or during your next class meeting. Be prepared to talk about your reflections and any insights you gained from the activities.
Visuals
Slide 1: Title Slide
Visual: Colorful title with the text “1 Samuel 20: Friendship and Loyalty”
Description: Use bright and engaging colors to draw students’ attention to the lesson topic.
—
Slide 2: Introduction to Characters
Visual: Split image with two side-by-side cartoon illustrations – one of David and one of Jonathan.
Caption: “Meet our main characters! David and Jonathan”
Description: Label the characters clearly. Show David with a shepherd’s staff and Jonathan with attire fitting a prince.
—
Slide 3: Jonathan’s Promise
Visual: A cartoon showing Jonathan and David shaking hands, with a large, shining heart symbol in between them.
Caption: “A Promise of Friendship and Loyalty”
Description: Emphasize their friendship and Jonathan’s promise to help David.
—
Slide 4: The Secret Signal
Visual: Diagram illustrating an archer (Jonathan) drawing back a bow with three arrows, and direction arrows showing the intended path of the arrows.
Caption: “Jonathan’s Secret Signal”
Description: Explain that Jonathan uses arrows to secretly communicate his findings to David.
—
Slide 5: The Feast of the New Moon
Visual: Illustration showing a grand table set with food, and empty seats around a large dining scene.
Caption: “The Feast of the New Moon”
Description: Highlight the setting where Saul notices David’s absence, indicating a tense situation.
—
Slide 6: Saul’s Anger
Visual: Cartoon-style depiction of King Saul with an angry expression and a spear in his hand, talking to Jonathan.
Caption: “An Angry King Saul”
Description: Show Saul’s rage when he learns of Jonathan’s loyalty to David.
—
Slide 7: The Final Escape
Visual: Scene of David running away into the wilderness, looking back toward Jonathan who is waving goodbye.
Caption: “David’s Escape”
Description: Convey the emotions of the moment, featuring expressions of sadness and courage.
—
Slide 8: Lessons Learned
Visual: A simple list with icons or small images corresponding to key points, like a heart for friendship, a handshake for loyalty, and a bow for bravery.
Caption: “What We Learned Today”
Description: Summarize key themes: friendship, loyalty, bravery, and trusting God’s plan.
—
Slide 9: Activity Time
Visual: Fun and vibrant activity cards with questions and a drawing task.
Caption: “Let’s Reflect and Create!”
Description: Encourage students to think about their own friendships or create their own secret signal between friends.
Memory Verse
Key Verse: 1 Samuel 20:42 (NIV) – “Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord.’”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme:
– Create a simple rhyme to help remember the verse:
“Jonathan and David, friends so true,
Promised peace in all they’d do.
In the Lord’s name, they’d always agree,
That’s the way friends should be!”
2. Song:
– Use the tune of “Mary Had a Little Lamb”:
“Jonathan said to David,
Go in peace, go in peace.
Sworn friendship with each other,
In the name of the Lord.”
3. Motions:
– Assign motions to keywords:
– “Jonathan” – Point to self.
– “David” – Point outward.
– “Go in peace” – Wave hands outward in a calming manner.
– “Sworn friendship” – Interlock fingers like a handshake.
– “Name of the Lord” – Point upwards.
4. Short Challenge:
– Friendship Circle: Children sit in a circle. Each child repeats one word of the verse while passing a small ball or object. If they miss or hesitate, they start again from the beginning until they complete the verse together by passing the object all the way around.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Role Play – David and Jonathan’s Friendship
Instructions:
1. Divide the students into groups of three.
2. Assign roles: David, Jonathan, and Narrator.
3. Provide each group a simplified script based on 1 Samuel 20 focusing on the friendship and loyalty between David and Jonathan.
Roles:
– David: Expresses concern and fear and seeks guidance from Jonathan.
– Jonathan: Shows commitment to help David and proposes the plan.
– Narrator: Sets the scene and describes the emotions and actions.
Discussion Prompts:
– How does Jonathan show loyalty to David?
– What does David feel about his situation?
Participation:
– Each student takes turns acting their part.
– After the role play, students discuss what they learned about friendship and loyalty.
Activity 2: Secret Message Exchange
Instructions:
1. Pair students up.
2. Provide each pair with paper and markers to create their secret messages using symbols, like Jonathan did with the arrows.
Roles:
– Message Creator: Designs the secret code using symbols.
– Message Receiver: Deciphers the symbols to understand the message.
Discussion Prompts:
– Why was it important for David and Jonathan to use a secret message?
– How did the secret message help protect David?
Participation:
– Each pair creates and exchanges their secret messages.
– Discuss whether they understood their partner’s message and how it felt to communicate in secret symbols.
Activity 3: Friendship Promise
Instructions:
1. Gather students in a circle.
2. Explain that, like Jonathan and David, they will create friendship promises to each other.
Roles:
– Promise Maker: Writes or draws a promise they want to make.
– Promise Receiver: Shares how they feel about the promise.
Discussion Prompts:
– What is the value of making promises to friends?
– How can you show loyalty to your friends like Jonathan did for David?
Participation:
– Each student writes or draws their promise on a small card.
– Students share their promises with the group and exchange with a partner.
– Explore the importance of keeping promises in friendships.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for 1 Samuel 20
1. Understanding the Story
– Who are the main characters in 1 Samuel 20, and what is happening between them?
– How do David and Jonathan show their friendship in this chapter?
– Describe a part in the story that you found exciting or surprising.
2. Reflecting on Friendship
– Jonathan and David had a strong friendship. What do you think makes a good friend?
– Can you think of a time when a friend helped you or you helped a friend? Write about how it made you feel.
– What promise did Jonathan make to David? Why are promises important in friendships?
3. Connecting to Your Life
– Have you ever felt scared or worried about something like David did? How did you feel better?
– Write about someone who you trust and who always supports you. What makes them trustworthy?
– How can you be a good friend to people around you this week? Write down one thing you will do.
4. Personal Application
– Just like Jonathan stood up for David, how can you stand up for what is right in your own life?
– Think about a time when you had to make a difficult decision like Jonathan. What did you learn from it?
– How can you show loyalty to your friends even when it’s hard?
5. Prayer Time
– Write a short prayer asking God to help you be a good friend like Jonathan was to David.
– Ask God to give you strength when you’re scared or unsure of what to do.
– Thank God for the friendships you have and ask for wisdom to choose friends who will help you grow.
Concluding Thoughts
– Think about the lessons Jonathan and David’s friendship can teach us. Write down any other thoughts or questions you have about the story.
Quiz
Quiz: 1 Samuel 20
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. Who was David’s best friend who helped him in this chapter?
a) Jonathan
b) Saul
c) Samuel
2. What was Jonathan’s plan to warn David if Saul wanted to harm him?
a) Write a letter
b) Send a messenger
c) Use arrows as a signal
3. What festival was happening when David had to be absent?
a) Passover
b) New Moon festival
c) Harvest festival
True/False Questions:
4. Jonathan believed his father Saul wanted to harm David.
True / False
5. David attended the feast with Saul during the New Moon festival.
True / False
Short-Answer Questions:
6. Describe what Jonathan told Saul about why David wasn’t at the feast.
7. How did Jonathan show David that he would be safe to return or needed to flee?
Answer Key:
Multiple Choice:
1. a) Jonathan
2. c) Use arrows as a signal
3. b) New Moon festival
True/False:
4. False
5. False
Short-Answer:
6. Jonathan told Saul that David had asked for permission to go to Bethlehem for a family sacrifice.
7. Jonathan shot arrows in the field and told his servant that the arrows were beyond him, signaling to David that he should flee.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes for 1 Samuel 20
Objective:
– Help students understand the friendship between David and Jonathan and the themes of loyalty, trust, and courage.
Lesson Outline:
1. Introduction (5-10 minutes):
– Briefly introduce the Book of 1 Samuel and its context.
– Explain who David and Jonathan are in simple terms: David is a young shepherd who will be king, and Jonathan is the son of King Saul.
2. Reading the Scripture (10-15 minutes):
– Read aloud or have students take turns reading 1 Samuel 20, focusing on key sections rather than the entire chapter.
– Use a child-friendly Bible translation to ensure accessibility.
3. Explaining Difficult Concepts (10-15 minutes):
– Covenant: Explain as a ‘big promise’ between friends.
– Loyalty: Describe it as always being there for someone, no matter what.
– Arrows as a Signal: Explain that David and Jonathan used the arrows as a secret message to stay safe.
4. Discussion (10 minutes):
– Ask questions like: “Why did Jonathan help David?” and “How can we be good friends like Jonathan and David?”
5. Activity (15-20 minutes):
– Role Play: Have students act out parts of the story to understand character emotions and actions.
– Craft: Create friendship bracelets representing the bond between David and Jonathan.
6. Conclusion and Reflection (5 minutes):
– Recap the story’s key messages about friendship and courage.
– Encourage students to think of ways they can show loyalty and courage in their friendships.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Adjust the time spent on reading and activities based on student engagement and comprehension.
– Incorporate movement or games if energy wanes.
Tips for Managing Student Engagement:
– Use visual aids, like images or drawings, to illustrate the story.
– Maintain an interactive dialogue with the students; ask questions and encourage participation.
Differentiation:
– Pair slower readers with stronger readers during reading sections.
– Provide a summary for students who may struggle to grasp the full narrative.
Classroom Management:
– Set clear expectations for participation and listening.
– Use positive reinforcement to encourage participation and focus.
Crafts
Craft: Friendship Arrows
Materials List:
– Wooden craft sticks (jumbo size)
– Colored construction paper
– Markers or crayons
– Scissors (safety scissors for kids)
– Glue sticks
– Feathers (or paper cut in feather shapes)
– String or ribbon
– Stickers for decoration (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Introduction:
Begin by discussing the story of 1 Samuel 20, focusing on the friendship and loyalty between David and Jonathan. Explain the significance of the arrows Jonathan used to communicate with David.
2. Craft Base:
Each student takes a wooden craft stick as the base of their “arrow.”
3. Design the Arrowhead:
– Have students cut a triangle from colored construction paper for the arrowhead.
– Instruct students to write a brief message about friendship or loyalty.
– Glue the triangle to one end of the craft stick.
4. Attach the Feathers:
– Give each student a few feathers or allow them to cut feathers from construction paper.
– Glue the feathers to the opposite end of the craft stick to represent the tail of the arrow.
5. Decorate the Arrow:
– Use markers, crayons, or stickers to decorate the craft stick and personalize their arrows.
6. Create a Hanging Loop:
– Cut a small piece of string or ribbon.
– Glue or tie it to the middle of the craft stick, creating a loop to hang their finished arrows.
7. Wrap Up:
Discuss how their arrows symbolize the communication and trust between friends and how they can express kindness and support in their own friendships.
Lesson Reinforcement:
The activity reinforces the lesson from 1 Samuel 20 by having children create physical representations of the secret signals that symbolized covenant and trust between David and Jonathan. As students personalize their arrows with messages and decorations, they reflect on the themes of friendship and loyalty, understanding the importance of being trustworthy and supportive like Jonathan was to David.
Music
Song Recommendation:
“Friendship Song” (Paraphrased)
Tune: “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
Lyrics:
David had a friend named Jon,
Friend named Jon, friend named Jon.
David had a friend named Jon,
And their bond was strong.
Jonathan helped David hide,
David hide, David hide.
Jonathan helped David hide,
Keeping him from harm.
Actions:
1. Verse 1:
– Clap hands to the beat while singing.
– On “David had a friend,” point to one child for “David” and another for “Jon.”
2. Verse 2:
– On “Jonathan helped David,” make a hugging motion.
– For “hide,” mime hiding your eyes with both hands.
Connection to the Lesson:
This song highlights the strong friendship between David and Jonathan from 1 Samuel 20. It underlines themes of loyalty and protection, helping children understand the importance of supporting and standing by friends as Jonathan did for David.
Worship Activity:
“Friendship Bracelets”
Materials:
– Colorful yarn or embroidery thread
– Beads with letters
Instructions:
1. Discuss the Story: Begin by summarizing the story of David and Jonathan from 1 Samuel 20, emphasizing their friendship and loyalty.
2. Make Bracelets: Children create bracelets using yarn and beads, stringing the letters of each other’s names.
3. Share: Once each child has made a bracelet, encourage them to exchange it with another child in the class, reinforcing the concept of friendship.
Connection to the Lesson:
The activity mirrors the covenant between David and Jonathan, symbolizing friendship and faithfulness. As the children create and exchange bracelets, they can reflect on the bond shared by the Biblical figures and how they can foster such friendships in their own lives.
These suggested songs and activities create an engaging environment for elementary students to connect with the story of “1 Samuel 20” through music and hands-on activities, reinforcing the importance of friendship and support.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 1 Samuel 20
Historical Context:
1 Samuel 20 is part of the Old Testament, which tells the story of ancient Israel. This passage focuses on the friendship between David and Jonathan during the time when Saul was king of Israel.
Key Characters:
– David: A young shepherd chosen by God to be the future king of Israel. He is known for defeating Goliath and is becoming increasingly popular, which angers King Saul.
– Jonathan: The son of King Saul and a close friend of David. Despite his father’s intentions, Jonathan remains loyal to David.
– Saul: The current king who grows increasingly jealous of David, fearing he will take over the throne.
Cultural Insights:
– Friendship and Loyalty: In ancient times, friendships were deeply valued. The relationship between David and Jonathan is a prime example of loyalty and faithfulness.
– Royal Dynamics: Being part of a royal family meant lots of pressure and expectation. Jonathan’s choice to help David shows his integrity and the strength of their friendship, even when it went against his father’s wishes.
Theological Insights:
– Trust in God’s Plan: David trusts God’s plan for his future. Despite the danger, he waits patiently for God’s timing.
– God’s Protection: The chapter highlights God’s protection over David through Jonathan’s help, showing that God uses people to fulfill His purposes.
– Covenant Relationship: Jonathan and David make a promise (or covenant) to protect each other and their descendants. Covenants are key aspects of biblical narratives and symbolize trust and commitment.
Application for Students:
– Discuss the importance of friendships and how they can support us in difficult times.
– Reflect on how we can be loyal and trustworthy friends like Jonathan.
– Consider how trusting in God can help us when we face challenges.
These insights are designed to help teachers and students appreciate the depth of the story and draw practical lessons from the biblical account.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
