1 Samuel 18:15

Matthew Henry on 1 Samuel 18:12–end

Saul had now, in effect, proclaimed war with David. He began in open hostility when he threw the javelin at him. Now we are here told how his enmity proceeded, and how David received the attacks of it. I. See how Saul expressed his malice against David. 1. He was afraid of him, Sa1 18:12. Perhaps he pretended to be afraid that David would do himself mischief, to force his way to the crown. Those that design ill against others are commonly willing to have it thought that others design ill against them. But David's withdrawal (Sa1 18:11) was a plain evidence that he was far from such a thought. However, he really stood in awe of him, as Herod feared John, Mar 6:20. Saul was sensible that he ha…

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Samuel 18:13

FEARS HIM FOR HIS GOOD SUCCESS. (Sa1 18:13-16) Therefore Saul removed him from him--sent him away from the court, where the principal persons, including his own son, were spellbound with admiration of the young and pious warrior. made him captain over a thousand--gave him a military commission, which was intended to be an honorable exile. But this post of duty served only to draw out before the public the extraordinary and varied qualities of his character, and to give him a stronger hold of the people's affections.

Adam Clarke on 1 Samuel 18:15

He was afraid of him - He saw that, by his prudent conduct, he was every day gaining increasing influence.

John Gill on 1 Samuel 18:15

Wherefore when Saul saw that he behaved himself very wisely,.... So that he could get no advantage against him, and he succeeded and was prosperous in all his enterprises, and was more and more in favour with the people: he was afraid of him; lest the time was drawing near that the kingdom should be rent from him, and given to David.

Keil & Delitzsch on 1 Samuel 18:6-16