In this verse we read of the great friendship, respect and love that Jonathan and David had for each other. This love was based upon a covenant made between them (1 Sam. 20:15-17). David loved Jonathan and Jonathan loved David. When David came from the battle victorious over Goliath, the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David (1 Sam. 18:1). When Jonathan was killed in battle David lamented over the death of his dear friend Jonathan. The friendship that they had was very special and unique. While this relationship and friendship was very special, it pales in comparison when we talk of the love of the Lord Jesus Christ to His elect. All those whom Christ unconditionally chose in eternity and those whom He effectually redeemed in time, all agree that Christ's love to them was and is and evermore shall be wonderful. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins" (I John 4:10). Here are a few reasons why Christ's love to the believer is wonderful.
"Thy love to me was wonderful." It is a wonder that Christ should love anybody, but it is the greatest wonder to the sinner that Christ should love him. Who am I and what is my house that Christ Jesus should love such a sinner as me (Eph.2:1-4; Rom.5:6-8). There are many reasons why His love should have passed us by, but His sovereign love singled us out and drew us to Himself (Jer. 31:1).
"Thy love to me was wonderful." God in Christ is the giver of this love. For a fallen creature to love another is no miracle. But for a holy Creator to love a sinful creature, this indeed is a miracle of sovereign grace "behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called sons of God (1 John 3: 1).
"Having loved us own which were in the world, He loved them to the end" (John 13:1). Our Lord took human nature to Himself, which is a great mystery (1 Tim.3:16), but He also took the sin of His people to Himself and suffered the wrath of God for them. This is the wonder of wonders that our Lord Jesus Christ would take the sinners place and die as his substitute putting away his sin (Rom. 8:1-4; 2 Cor. 5:21).
Nothing shall separate the believer from this love (Rom. 8:35-39). Unto him that loved us and washed be all honor and glory (Rev. 1: 5)