Jonathan’s bold faith isn't just about facing the enemy; it's about acknowledging God's power to act regardless of human strength. He sees even a small victory as a potential act of God, not just a military triumph, and he rightly points out that divine power isn't limited by the size of the army.
Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armor, “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.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
King Saul and his army are paralyzed by fear, facing a massive Philistine force, but his son Jonathan, with only his armor-bearer, decides to take matters into his own hands. He proposes a daring raid on a Philistine outpost, trusting that God can grant victory regardless of their small numbers. This act of faith sets the stage for a remarkable turning point in the battle that unfolds immediately after.
Jonathan wasn't just brave; he was boldly trusting God. See how his faith wasn't passive but fueled an incredible act.
Jonathan’s decision to attack the Philistine garrison wasn't born out of recklessness, but a profound belief in God's power. He recognized that their situation was dire – outnumbered and facing a formidable enemy. Yet, he didn't focus on their limitations. Instead, he declared, 'It may be that the LORD will work for us.' This wasn't a wish; it was a declaration of dependence on God's ability, not their own strength. His courage stemmed from understanding that God's victory isn't tied to military might or numbers.
Jonathan understood a crucial truth: God doesn't need a large army to win battles. Explore why size doesn't matter to the Almighty.
The core of Jonathan's faith lay in the principle that God's ability to save is not dependent on the number of people involved. He states, 'for nothing can hinder the LORD from saving by many or by few.' This reveals a divine sovereignty where God can achieve His purposes whether through a massive host or a seemingly insignificant handful. It liberates believers from the pressure of needing to be numerous or powerful to see God work. God's power is absolute and His plans are unstoppable, regardless of the human resources available.
Understand the original words
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arel · Hebrew Adjective
Used in the Old Testament to describe those outside the covenant relationship with God established through the sign of circumcision; it often signifies opposition to God's people or spiritual impurity.
YHWH · Hebrew Proper Noun
The personal name of the God of Israel, the covenant-keeping God who reveals Himself to His people. It signifies His eternal self-existence and faithfulness to His promises.
yasha · Hebrew Verb
To deliver, rescue, or grant victory. In a biblical context, it often refers to God's divine intervention on behalf of His people to free them from oppression or death.
Jonathan's faith is tested in a moment of overwhelming odds, highlighting the ongoing struggle for Israel's freedom from foreign oppressors.
~1050 BC
Saul Anointed King
After years of judges, the people demand a king. Samuel reluctantly anoints Saul, a strong warrior, to lead Israel.
c. 1025 BC
Philistine Dominance Over Israel
The Philistines, a formidable sea-faring people, have established military and political control over much of Israel.
c. 1012 BC
Philistine Army Gathers Against Israel
A massive Philistine army assembles, poised to crush any remaining Israelite resistance and solidify their rule.
c. 1012 BC
Israelite Army Mobilizes
Saul gathers his forces to confront the overwhelming Philistine threat, but many Israelites are terrified and desert.
c. 1012 BC— this verse
Jonathan's Daring Raid
While Saul waits nervously in Gilgal, his son Jonathan and his armor-bearer secretly cross the valley to attack a small Philistine outpost.
c. 1012 BC
Miraculous Israelite Victory
Jonathan's courageous attack, coupled with divine intervention, causes panic in the Philistine camp, leading to a rout and significant Israelite victory.
This passage echoes Jonathan's faith, showing how God used Gideon and just 300 men to defeat a massive army, highlighting God's power regardless of numbers.
2 Samuel 10:11-12Joab's exhortation to his brother Abishai directly parallels Jonathan's sentiment, emphasizing courage and relying on the Lord's strength to overcome the enemy, whether strong or weak.
1 Corinthians 1:27-29The Apostle Paul picks up this theme, explaining that God often chooses the weak and humble to confound the wise and strong, demonstrating His power and sovereignty.
Matthew 19:26Jesus declares that with God, all things are possible, which is the foundational truth underpinning Jonathan's courageous belief that God could save by many or by few.
Jonathan’s bold faith isn't just about facing the enemy; it's about acknowledging God's power to act regardless of human strength. He sees even a small victory as a potential act of God, not just a military triumph, and he rightly points out that divine power isn't limited by the size of the army.
King Saul and his army are paralyzed by fear, facing a massive Philistine force, but his son Jonathan, with only his armor-bearer, decides to take matters into his own hands. He proposes a daring raid on a Philistine outpost, trusting that God can grant victory regardless of their small numbers. This act of faith sets the stage for a remarkable turning point in the battle that unfolds immediately after.
King Saul and his army are paralyzed by fear, facing a massive Philistine force, but his son Jonathan, with only his armor-bearer, decides to take matters into his own hands. He proposes a daring raid on a Philistine outpost, trusting that God can grant victory regardless of their small numbers. This act of faith sets the stage for a remarkable turning point in the battle that unfolds immediately after.
"Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armor, “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.”" — Jonathan’s bold faith isn't just about facing the enemy; it's about acknowledging God's power to act regardless of human strength. He sees even a small victory as a potential act of God, not just a…
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Last reviewed October 2026
