I swear by the living LORD that whoever sinned must die, even if it turns out to be my own son Jonathan.” No one said a word.
David was furious with the rich man and said to Nathan, “I swear by the living LORD that the man who did this deserves to die!
David turned to Joab and said, “It seems that I have already given my decision. Go and bring Absalom back.”
But exactly the same thing will finally happen to all of us, whether we live right and respect God or sin and don't respect God. Yes, the same thing will happen if we offer sacrifices to God or if we don't, if we keep our promises or break them.
Saul told his army, “You stand on that side of the priest, and Jonathan and I will stand on the other side.” Everyone agreed.
“Yes, Jonathan. I swear to God that you must die.”
Saul agreed and promised, “I swear by the living LORD that I won't have David killed!”
You'll never be safe, and your kingdom will be in danger as long as that son of Jesse is alive. Turn him over to me now! He deserves to die!”
“Ahimelech,” Saul said, “you and your whole family are going to die.”
Saul replied, “I swear by the living LORD that nothing will happen to you because of this.”