2 Samuel 19:27

and he has slandered your servant to my lord the king. Yet my lord the king is like the angel of God, so do what is good in your eyes.

Study Bible

and he has slandered
The Hebrew word for "slandered" is "רָגַל" (ragal), which can mean to slander, spy, or go about as a talebearer. In the context of this verse, it refers to the act of spreading false reports or accusations. This highlights the destructive power of words and the importance of truthfulness, a theme echoed throughout Scripture. Slander is condemned in the Bible as it can destroy reputations and relationships, and it is seen as a tool of the enemy to sow discord among God's people.

your servant
The term "servant" in Hebrew is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which denotes a person who is in service to another, often with connotations of loyalty and duty. In the biblical context, being a servant of the king was a position of both humility and honor. This phrase reflects the speaker's acknowledgment of his position and his submission to the authority of the king, which is a recurring theme in the relationship between God and His people.

to my lord the king
The phrase "my lord the king" is a respectful address, acknowledging the king's authority and position. The Hebrew word for "lord" is "אֲדֹנִי" (adoni), which signifies respect and submission. This reflects the biblical principle of honoring those in authority, as seen in passages like Romans 13:1, which calls believers to be subject to governing authorities.

Yet my lord the king is like the Angel of God
This comparison elevates the king's discernment and judgment to a divine level. The "Angel of God" in Hebrew is "מַלְאַךְ אֱלֹהִים" (mal'akh Elohim), often representing a messenger or representative of God. This phrase suggests that the king possesses wisdom and insight akin to that of a divine messenger, emphasizing the belief that God grants wisdom to those in leadership, as seen in Solomon's request for wisdom in 1 Kings 3:9.

so do whatever you please
This phrase indicates complete trust and submission to the king's decision. The Hebrew root for "please" is "טוֹב" (tov), meaning good or pleasing. It reflects a surrender to the king's judgment, trusting that his decision will be just and right. This mirrors the Christian call to trust in God's will, believing that His plans are for our good, as stated in Jeremiah 29:11.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mephibosheth
The son of Jonathan and grandson of King Saul, Mephibosheth was crippled in both feet. He was a recipient of King David's kindness due to David's covenant with Jonathan.

2. King David
The second king of Israel, known for his heart for God and his complex reign, which included both triumphs and personal failures.

3. Ziba
The servant of Mephibosheth who deceived King David by slandering Mephibosheth, claiming he was disloyal during Absalom's rebellion.

4. Jerusalem
The capital city of Israel, where King David returned after the defeat of Absalom's rebellion.

5. Absalom's Rebellion
A significant event where David's son, Absalom, led a revolt against his father, causing David to flee Jerusalem temporarily.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Leaders must exercise discernment and seek truth, especially when faced with conflicting reports. David's situation with Mephibosheth and Ziba underscores the need for wisdom in judgment.

The Power of Slander
Slander can cause significant harm and division. Believers are called to be cautious with their words and to seek reconciliation and truth.

Trust in God's Justice
Like Mephibosheth, who trusted David's judgment, believers should trust in God's ultimate justice and righteousness, even when falsely accused.

Mercy and Grace
David's response to Mephibosheth reflects God's grace. Christians are encouraged to extend grace and mercy, even when wronged.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Mephibosheth's loyalty to David during Absalom's rebellion serves as a model of faithfulness. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their commitments, even in challenging times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Mephibosheth's response to King David reflect his character and trust in God's justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of seeking both sides of a account before making a judgment, as seen in David's interaction with Mephibosheth and Ziba?

3. How does David's treatment of Mephibosheth illustrate the biblical concept of grace, and how can we apply this in our relationships?

4. What lessons can we learn from Mephibosheth's loyalty during Absalom's rebellion about remaining faithful in difficult circumstances?

5. How can the account of Mephibosheth and Ziba encourage us to handle situations where we are falsely accused or misunderstood?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 9
This chapter details David's initial kindness to Mephibosheth, setting the stage for the events in chapter 19.

Proverbs 18:17
This verse highlights the importance of hearing both sides of a account before making a judgment, relevant to David's situation with Mephibosheth and Ziba.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving enemies and doing good to those who persecute you, reflecting David's merciful attitude.