14:4-6
The Israelites and Philistines were separated by a ravine, with steep cliffs on either side. Jonathan decides to go to the outpost of the Philistines. He refers to them as “uncircumcised men”, David used a similar epithet when going up to face Goliath. They were literally uncircumcised, but Jonathan means it primarily in the sense of their not being part of God’s covenant. Jonathan had a much deeper understanding of the importance of Israel’s relationship with the Lord than Saul ever had. “Perhaps the Lord will act on our behalf” was not an expression of doubt, but one of not being presumptuous about what God would do. Jonathan knows that salvation is down to the Lord, and He can use a huge army or a small band.
14:7-10
The armour-bearer is fully with Jonathan. A man or woman who is walking in faith with the Lord attracts the support of others of good faith. They will also attract the opposition of the godless. Jonathan has a plan, and leaves it open for the Lord to guide them, either to attack or not to attack. Later we will see that David frequently sought the Lord. This was something that Saul did not do. So if the Philistines called them to come up, that would be a sign that God had given them into Jonathan’s hands. Otherwise, they would stay where they were.
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