1. Saul's oath (24-30)

Saul needed to humble himself before God and repent. Instead he made a foolish oath that revealed his pride. He forbade his soldiers to eat until he had revenge on his enemies, setting the stage for tragedy when Jonathan, in ignorance, tasted a little honey. When he was told of his father's oath, Jonathan saw his father's lack of wisdom. Hungry men can't fight.

2. The people save Jonathan (31-52)

Toward evening, the victorious but exhausted and hungry men pounced on the plunder and began eating raw meat, violating the law of Moses. Their strength and spirit left them and they could not finish the fight. Saul investigated and found that Jonathan was guilty of violating his decree. The people defended Jonathan, and Saul capitulated. Saul showed that he lived before men, not before God.