David and Jonathan - Bible Lessons for Kids
The story of David and Jonathan is a powerful Bible story about friendship, loyalty, kindness, and trusting God. Teaching kids about David and Jonathan can help children learn what it means to be a faithful friend and to care for others with love and courage. Below you’ll find fun and meaningful ideas, including crafts, activities, printable lesson plans, and kid-friendly videos to help bring this important story to life for children.
The Story of David and Jonathan
The story of David and Jonathan is detailed in 1 Samuel 20. David was serving Saul, and Jonathan was Saul’s son and David’s close friend. After Saul had repeatedly tried to kill David, David went to Jonathan for help. Jonathan devised a plan to determine whether David was still in danger from Saul. Jonathan learned that Saul was adamant about killing David, so Jonathan warned David that it wasn’t safe for him to return to the palace. Jonathan’s loyalty and friendship helped to protect David.
David and Jonathan Bible Lessons for Kids
Are you planning to teach about David and Jonathan? Check out our scripted lesson plans, printable crafts, and discussion questions. Perfect for kids aged 3 to 8.
Background information about the story of David and Jonathan
Jonathan knew that God had chosen David to be the next king of Israel. Instead of trying to take the throne for himself, Jonathan supported David. He was more concerned about being a good friend than about the status of being the prince in line for the throne.
David was also a loyal friend and, years later, cared for Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, who was unable to walk. In 2 Samuel 9, there is a story about how David made sure that Mephibosheth was cared for.
”I can BEE a Good Friend” Craft for Preschool
Who doesn’t love a good pun? “I can be a good friend” easily becomes a “bee” that reminds us of the qualities that make a good friend.
Preschool kids will love creating the bee craft found in David and Jonathan for Preschool. First, they will color all the craft pieces and then cut them out. An adult might need to help with this step, depending on the kids' cutting ability. Then, assemble the bee and glue it on a branch that says, “I can BEE a good friend.”
Friendship Robot Craft for Older Kids
David and Jonathan were good friends! Jonathan helped David, encouraged him, and put David’s needs ahead of his own. David helped Jonathan by caring for his son, Mephibosheth. Just like David and Jonathan cared for each other, God wants us to care for our friends. Take time to brainstorm qualities of a good friend, such as someone who shows kindness, makes us feel safe, and shares with us.
Then create a friendship robot with kids as a visual reminder of what makes a good friend! On each body party, write or draw one way you can be a good friend. Then glue all the pieces together. For template pieces, check out David and Jonathan for Older Kids.
Other Activities and Crafts for David and Jonathan
Friendship Bracelets: David and Jonathan were the best of friends. Making friendship bracelets can be a fun way to connect with this story. As kids make their bracelets, have them talk about what makes a good friend. For some simple friendship bracelet ideas, check out Projects with Kids.
Friendship Quilt: Children’s Foundation of America has a cute friendship quilt craft. Give kids squares of thick paper and have them draw pictures of things they like to do with their friends or things that make a good friend. Then connect all the squares together with yarn to form a paper quilt.
Friendship Rocks: Paint rock pets for your friends as a reminder of friendship. Follow these instructions from Red Ted Art.
Secret Code Game: David and Jonathan had a secret code in this story, where Jonathan shot an arrow and told his servant how far it was. This code told David it wasn’t safe for him to stay. Older kids might enjoy creating secret codes to share with their friends. There are some free printable codes on Picklebums: Fun Ideas for Kids.
YouTube Videos about David and Jonathan
YouTube is a wonderful resource, and many creators produce high-quality videos for kids. Below are a couple of suggestions for the story of David and Jonathan. But before showing them to kids, be sure to preview them to ensure they are age-appropriate.
LOOKING FOR MORE LESSONS ON THE LIFE OF DAVID
This lesson is part of a four-week series about the Life of David. The other lessons include David is Anointed, David Serves Saul, and David is King. There is also a bonus lesson about David and Goliath.
