Big Idea: We all need faithful and godly friendships.

            1 Samuel 20:1-10, 27-34

Real friendship:

• requires personal risk.

John 15:13

• reveals the truth.

1 Peter 5:8

Ephesians 6:12

John 10:10

• says the hard thing.

Proverbs 27:6

Trust is a compound interest investment.

Message Questions

We’re in a year-long journey through the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, tracing the rise, reign, and legacy of Israel’s most famous king. We’ll see the story of how God works through real people with real flaws to accomplish his purposes. This week we are in 1 Samuel 20, and the big idea is: We all need faithful and godly friendships. 

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do.

1. Have someone read 1 Samuel 20:1-4. In this passage, David is honest about his fear and confusion. How does Jonathan’s response in vs. 4 demonstrate the difference between a casual acquaintance and a godly friend, and why is this level of commitment so vital in a culture where 50% of people feel a lack of companionship?
2. Have someone read 1 Samuel 20:30-33 and John 15:13. The sermon mentions that real friendship requires personal risk. What exactly was Jonathan risking by standing up to Saul, and how does his willingness to face the "spear" for David help us better understand the kind of sacrificial love Jesus talks about in John?
3. Have someone read 1 Samuel 20:8-10 and Proverbs 27:6. David asks Jonathan for honesty, even if it’s painful. Why is the ability to "say the hard thing" or offer "trustworthy wounds" essential for a friendship to reveal the truth rather than just provide comfort?
4. Based on the idea that trust is a compound interest investment, what is one practical way you can grow in being a "sober-minded and alert" friend who helps others stay protected from the spiritual struggles mentioned in Ephesians 6:12?
5. Looking at the promise of "abundance" in John 10:10, how can you go and initiate a godly friendship with a neighbor or co-worker this week as a way to model the love of Jesus and eventually share your faith with them?