2 Samuel 4:3

because the Beerothites fled to Gittaim and have lived there as foreigners to this day.

Study Bible

because the Beerothites fled to Gittaim
The Beerothites were originally inhabitants of Beeroth, one of the cities of the Gibeonites who made a treaty with Joshua (Joshua 9:17). This treaty was made under false pretenses, as the Gibeonites deceived Israel into believing they were from a distant land. Despite the deception, the Israelites honored the treaty, and the Gibeonites, including the Beerothites, were spared. The flight to Gittaim suggests a time of instability or threat, possibly related to the political turmoil during the reign of King Saul and the subsequent power struggles. Gittaim is mentioned in Nehemiah 11:33 as a place where the Benjamites resettled, indicating it was a known location for refuge. The movement of the Beerothites reflects the broader theme of displacement and seeking refuge, which is a recurring motif in the biblical narrative.

and have lived there as foreigners to this day.
The phrase "to this day" indicates that the Beerothites remained in Gittaim for an extended period, suggesting a long-term displacement. Living as foreigners implies a lack of full integration or acceptance in their new location, which resonates with the experiences of many groups in the biblical narrative, such as the Israelites in Egypt. This status as foreigners can also be seen as a metaphor for the Christian experience of living in the world but not being of it (John 17:14-16). The enduring presence of the Beerothites in Gittaim highlights the lasting impact of historical events and decisions, such as the treaty with the Gibeonites, on the lives of individuals and communities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Beerothites
The inhabitants of Beeroth, one of the cities of the Gibeonites, who were originally Hivites. They are mentioned in the context of fleeing their city.

2. Gittaim
A location where the Beerothites fled and settled as foreigners. The exact location is not definitively known, but it is significant as a place of refuge.

3. Foreigners
The status of the Beerothites in Gittaim, highlighting their displacement and the ongoing consequences of past events.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Deception
The Beerothites' status as foreigners is a direct result of the deception their ancestors practiced. This serves as a reminder that deceit can have long-lasting consequences.

God's Sovereignty in Displacement
Despite their displacement, the Beerothites found a place to live. This reflects God's sovereignty and provision, even in difficult circumstances.

Identity and Belonging
Living as foreigners, the Beerothites had to navigate their identity and sense of belonging. This can encourage believers to find their identity in Christ, even when they feel out of place in the world.

The Importance of Community
The Beerothites' move to Gittaim highlights the importance of community and support during times of transition and uncertainty.

Faithfulness in Exile
Like the Beerothites, believers are called to remain faithful to God, even when living as "foreigners" in a world that is not their ultimate home.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from the Beerothites' experience about the long-term effects of deception and how can we apply this to our own lives?

2. How does the account of the Beerothites in Gittaim illustrate God's provision and sovereignty, and how can this encourage us in times of displacement or transition?

3. In what ways can the concept of living as "foreigners" in this world help us understand our identity in Christ?

4. How can we, as a church community, support those who feel like "foreigners" or are going through transitions in their lives?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt out of place or like a "foreigner." How did your faith help you navigate that experience, and what biblical principles can you apply to similar situations in the future?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
This chapter provides background on the Gibeonites, including the Beerothites, who deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them. This historical context explains why the Beerothites were living as foreigners.

1 Chronicles 8:29-30
These verses list the genealogy of the Benjamites, including the Beerothites, providing additional context to their identity and heritage.

Hebrews 11:13
This verse speaks of the faithful living as strangers and exiles on the earth, drawing a parallel to the Beerothites' status as foreigners.