1 Samuel 14:12
And the men of the garrison answered Jonathan and his armourbearer, and said, Come up to us, and we will shew you a thing. And Jonathan said unto his armourbearer, Come up after me: for the LORD hath delivered them into the hand of Israel.
1 Samuel 14:12 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of 1 Samuel illustrates the faith and courage of Jonathan, the son of King Saul. In this passage, Jonathan and his armorbearer are faced with a challenge from the garrison of the Philistines. Despite being outnumbered, Jonathan trusts in the Lord to deliver their enemies into their hands. The garrison taunts Jonathan and his armorbearer, daring them to come up and face them. Jonathan responds with confidence, declaring that the Lord has already handed their enemies over to the people of Israel. This verse highlights the importance of relying on God's strength and guidance in times of adversity. Jonathan's unwavering faith in God's power demonstrates the belief that with God on their side, victory is certain. As believers, we can draw inspiration from Jonathan's example and trust in God's provision in all circumstances.
Theological Overview
Through a theological interpretation of this passage, we see the faith and bravery of Jonathan, the son of King Saul. In this verse, Jonathan and his armourbearer faced a formidable opponent in the Philistine garrison, yet Jonathan remained steadfast in his trust in the Lord. When the men of the garrison called for them to come up, Jonathan responded with unwavering confidence that God had delivered their enemies into their hands. This shows Jonathan's faith in the power and sovereignty of God, even in the face of overwhelming odds. Jonathan's actions demonstrate a belief in God's ability to work miracles and intervene on behalf of His people. Furthermore, the use of the phrase "shew you a thing" in this verse may indicate a challenge or a test of strength, emphasizing the boldness and determination of Jonathan. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful example of faith, courage, and reliance on God in the midst of trials and opposition.
1 Samuel 14:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
And the men of the garrison answered Jonathan and his armorbearer, and said, Come up to us, and we will show you a thing. And Jonathan said unto his armorbearer, Come up after me; for Jehovah hath delivered them into the hand of Israel.
World English Bible
The men of the garrison answered Jonathan and his armor bearer, and said, “Come up to us, and we will show you something!” Jonathan said to his armor bearer, “Come up after me; for Yahweh has delivered them into the hand of Israel.”
Douay-Rheims
And the men of the garrison spoke to Jonathan, and to his armourbearer, and said: Come up to us, and we will shew you a thing. And Jonathan said to his armourbearer: Let us go up, follow me: for the Lord hath delivered them into the hands of Israel.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And the men of the garison answered Ionathan, and his armour bearer, and said, Come vp to vs: for we will shewe you a thing. Then Ionathan said vnto his armour bearer, Come vp after me: for the Lord hath deliuered them into the hand of Israel.